SSRI or selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors are probably among the most popular pharmacotherapy medications. SSRIs hold popular names like Zoloft or fluoxitine (prozac). Typically this class of drugs is used to treat personality disorders, anxiety disorders, or depression. Serotonin is naturally produced in the brain and is responsible for mood regulation. Interestingly enough serotonin is a derivative of tryptophan (a chemical that is commonly found in the body in higher amounts after eating turkey). Serotonin plays a huge role in the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals. According to Wikipedia 90% of serotonin is found in the enterochromaffin cells in the stomach, conducting intestinal movements. Scientist theorize that the serotonin in the body of a person who is clinically chemically unable to regulate serotonin in the body properly. An important thing to note is that SSRIs do not create serotonin it simply inhibits it. Being structurally similar to a particular street drug, SSRIs are under great scrutiny for effectively in various case studies. Currently the drug is sold despite its long list of side effects. There are many beliefs that the placebo effect plays a huge role in using SSRIs to treat depression.

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_serotonin_reuptake_inhibitor
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serotonin