This Podcast Will Kill You Ep 182 SSRIs Part 1: Origin
Jul 22, 2025
The fascinating origins of SSRIs reveal a journey through millions of years and the animal kingdom. The podcast examines how societal factors shaped the rise of these antidepressants, blending personal anecdotes with historical context. It explores the complex relationship between serotonin and mental health, including stigma and the evolving understanding of depression treatment. Intriguingly, it touches on the surprising link from tuberculosis to Prozac, highlighting the scientific evolution and controversies that surround these medications.
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Pharmacist's Journey with SSRIs
- Will shares his personal journey with SSRIs beginning in pharmacy school when diagnosed with anxiety and depression.
- Despite initial side effects, genetic testing helped him find a suitable antidepressant, highlighting the importance of patient advocacy.
Life-Changing Effect of SSRIs
- Another individual recounts their severe OCD and anxiety, which improved drastically with fluoxetine.
- They describe SSRIs as a "helping hand" that pulled them out of a dark place, expressing regret for not starting sooner.
Serotonin's Ancient Role
- Serotonin is an ancient, vital molecule found in nearly all life forms, not just humans.
- It has diverse roles including mood regulation, digestion, and sleep, showing its complexity beyond being a simple 'depression neurotransmitter'.
