Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My psychiatrist has decided for years to use only a combination of SSRI and Busipirone permanently to control and manage my chronic GAD and SAD. Which among the SSRIs combination is the best and has the fewest side effects?
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
Coming to SSRI first, the side effects such as sedation and weight gain issues are lower with Prozac (Fluoxetine). While Zoloft (Sertraline) has a lower rate of weight gain and sedation is a little higher compared to Prozac. While Lexapro (Escitalopram) has a little higher incidence of sedation and weight gain.
Sexual dysfunctions are more or less equal to all these drugs. All these SSRIs are quite safe for long-term use. Initially, Prozac can cause some anxiety symptoms. So overall, you can choose from Prozac, Zoloft, and Buspirone, considering your side effects profile.
I hope this helps you.
Thank you.
I hope this has helped you. Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for your reply.
I have just one thing that confused me. How is Fluoxetine less likely to cause weight gain, and it is a 5-HT2C antagonist?
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Yes, Fluoxetine can also cause weight gain, but the weight gain is less compared to other SSRIs. It is only relative to other SSRIs.
I hope this has helped you.
Thank you.
Was this conversation helpful?
Answered byDr. Ramchandra Lamba
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Related Questions
How can someone with a social anxiety disorder lead a better life?
Should I continue using SSRI for anxiety even if the issues persist?
Dr. Gaddam Ratna Kishore
I was taking Paroxetine for social anxiety disorder. Please suggest a drug with less side effects.
Dr. Rangaswamy Gaddala
I am suffering from post-SSRI sexual dysfunction. Please help.
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.