Which of the following is an example of a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)?

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of medications commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. Among the given options, Zoloft is classified as an SSRI, making it the correct choice.

Zoloft, or sertraline, specifically targets the reuptake of serotonin, enhancing its availability in the brain and improving mood and emotional regulation. This mechanism is pivotal in treating conditions such as major depressive disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

In contrast, the other medications listed do not belong to the SSRI class. Marplan is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), Cymbalta is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), and Pamelor is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). Each of these medications operates via different mechanisms and may target different neurotransmitters or receptors, which is why they do not fit the definition of an SSRI. Understanding the distinct classifications of these medications is important for recognizing their appropriate uses in clinical practice.