Which type of drug is often targeted at serotonin for treating depressive disorders?

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are specifically designed to increase serotonin levels in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake into neurons. This mechanism is significant because serotonin is a neurotransmitter that influences mood, and low levels of serotonin are often associated with depressive disorders. By blocking the reabsorption of serotonin, SSRIs enhance its availability in the synaptic cleft, which can lead to improved mood and reduction of depression symptoms over time.

These drugs are often prescribed as a first-line treatment for major depressive disorders due to their relatively favorable side effect profile compared to other types of antidepressants. In contrast, other options such as antipsychotics primarily target different neurotransmitters, stimulants primarily increase dopamine and norepinephrine activity, and opioids have a different mechanism and are generally not used for treating depression.