Which medication is commonly prescribed for depression?

Prozac, known generically as fluoxetine, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is commonly prescribed for the treatment of depression. SSRIs like Prozac work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.

Prozac was one of the first SSRIs introduced and has been widely used for many years, making it a well-recognized option among healthcare providers for managing depressive disorders. The effectiveness of Prozac in treating major depressive disorder has been well-documented in clinical studies, contributing to its status as a go-to medication in this area.

While other medications listed, such as Zoloft (sertraline), Lexapro (escitalopram), and Cymbalta (duloxetine), are also prescribed for depression (and each has its specific indications and mechanisms), Prozac is historically significant and widely known, which can often make it the first answer that comes to mind when considering common treatments for depression.