Do antidepressants reduce cognitive ability?

Several studies have suggested that antidepressant use is associated with increased risk of developing cognitive impairment and dementia[9–14]. Some studies have found an inverse relationship—that antidepressant use may decrease the risk of developing dementia[15–16].

Do antidepressants make your brain slow?

A single dose of SSRI antidepressants such as Fluoxetine, shown here, can change the brain’s functional connectivity within three hours, a new study found.

Does SSRI decrease memory?

Our findings show that patients taking SSRIs experienced statistically significant memory loss during 8 weeks of treatment; age and gender did not influence this result.

Does SSRI improve memory?

Our findings show that patients taking SSRIs experienced statistically significant memory loss during 8 weeks of treatment; age and gender did not influence this result. In contrast, Levkovitz et al. and Culang-Reinlieb et al. reported that some SSRIs have improved memory function in patients with depression [17, 18].

What is the safest SSRI?

Citalopram and escitalopram have been considered the safest among the SSRIs with respect to potential for liver injury [41].

Can Lexapro cause memory loss?

Patients with major depressive disorder treated with the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) escitalopram experienced significant drops in the levels of 2 neurotoxic compounds that can cause memory loss and dementia.

Can antidepressants cause memory and cognitive problems?

There are different types of antidepressant meds, which can affect people differently. It is possible these cognitive and memory issues could be related to other factors, rather than the medication you’re taking. Having a chat about these concerns with the doctor who prescribed the medication is a good idea.

How do SSRI antidepressants work to treat depression?

They can ease symptoms of moderate to severe depression, are relatively safe and typically cause fewer side effects than other types of antidepressants do. SSRIs treat depression by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is one of the chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) that carry signals between brain nerve cells (neurons).

What is the best antidepressant to take for depression?

By Mayo Clinic Staff Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants. They can ease symptoms of moderate to severe depression, are relatively safe and typically cause fewer side effects than other types of antidepressants do.

What are SSRIs used to treat?

They’re mainly prescribed to treat depression, particularly persistent or severe cases, and are often used in combination with a talking therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). SSRIs are usually the first choice medication for depression because they generally have fewer side effects than most other types of antidepressant.