Unleash Your Inner Social Worker: Master the SWES Human Behavior Exam 2026!

The selection of Prozac as a commonly used medication for treating depression is grounded in its classification as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs like Prozac (fluoxetine) are widely prescribed for major depressive disorder, as they function by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Prozac has been in use since the late 1980s and is one of the most recognized antidepressants, contributing significantly to the treatment of depression.

While Zoloft (sertraline) is also an SSRI and used for depression, its selection does not diminish the importance and prevalence of Prozac in clinical practice. Aspirin, primarily an analgesic and anti-inflammatory medication, and Ritalin, which is primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), do not serve as treatments for depression. Thus, the efficacy and historical context surrounding Prozac solidify its role as a key medication in the management of depressive disorders.