Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are drugs commonly prescribed for the treatment of which condition?

• A. Schizophrenia with primary positive symptoms (e.g., hallucinations)
• B. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• C. Major depressive disorder (depression)
• D. Alzheimer’s disease dementia

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs are a class of drugs that work by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation.
2. Identify the conditions listed in the problem: Schizophrenia with positive symptoms, ADHD, Major depressive disorder, and Alzheimer's disease dementia.
3. Recall the primary use of SSRIs: SSRIs are primarily prescribed to treat mood disorders, especially major depressive disorder, by alleviating symptoms such as low mood, sadness, and loss of interest.
4. Consider the other conditions: Schizophrenia is typically treated with antipsychotic medications, ADHD with stimulants or behavioral therapy, and Alzheimer's disease dementia with medications targeting cognitive symptoms, not SSRIs.
5. Conclude that SSRIs are most commonly prescribed for major depressive disorder, making it the correct answer among the options provided.