Rosh Internal Medicine Boost Practice Exam 2026 – The All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

The first-line treatment for major depressive disorder is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs are preferred primarily due to their favorable side effect profile and safety in overdose compared to older classes of antidepressants. They function by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and alleviate depressive symptoms.

SSRIs, such as fluoxetine, sertraline, and escitalopram, have been extensively studied and are generally well tolerated, making them a popular choice among healthcare providers. Their efficacy has been well-established in clinical trials, and they are often the initial pharmacological treatment recommended for patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder.

While other options, such as tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, may be effective, they are typically reserved for cases where patients do not respond to SSRIs or exhibit specific symptoms that may benefit more from these older medications. Psychotherapy is also a valuable intervention, particularly for mild to moderate depression, but pharmacotherapy is generally prioritized in cases of moderate to severe major depressive disorder. Therefore, SSRIs represent the first-line approach in the treatment algorithm for this condition.