What is the first-line treatment for a 31-year-old woman diagnosed with depression?

The first-line treatment for a 31-year-old woman diagnosed with depression is indeed an SSRI, such as fluoxetine. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed medications for depression due to their favorable safety profile, ease of use, and lower risk of side effects compared to older classes of antidepressants. SSRIs work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help improve mood, anxiety, and overall functioning.

Fluoxetine specifically is often chosen as it has a long half-life and is well-tolerated by many patients, making it suitable for first-line therapy. The effectiveness of SSRIs has been supported by numerous clinical trials, and they are typically preferred as initial treatment options due to both their effectiveness and the breadth of data supporting their use.

Other options, while they may be effective in certain cases, are not considered first-line treatments. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) like desipramine can have significant side effects and toxicity in overdose situations, making them less desirable as first-line options. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like phenelzine have dietary restrictions and potential interactions that complicate their use. Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs