Example SSRI Monitoring Plan

SSRI (for example: citalopram (Celexa®), escitalopram (Lexapro®), fluoxetine (Prozac®), fluvoxamine (Luvox®), sertraline (Zoloft®)

At baseline and weekly for the first four weeks, biweekly thereafter monitor closely for suicidal thoughts and behavior, as well as behaviors possibly associated with suicidality (e.g., akathisia, irritability, increased agitation). Also monitor for rare, but potentially significant side effects including, but not limited to, increased bleeding predisposition, serotonin syndrome, dystonias and neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Based on: Practice parameter for the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with depressive disorders. Birmaher B, Brent D; AACAP Work Group on Quality Issues, Bernet W, Bukstein O, Walter H, Benson RS, Chrisman A, Farchione T, Greenhill L, Hamilton J, Keable H, Kinlan J, Schoettle U, Stock S, Ptakowski KK, Medicus J. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2007 Nov;46(11):1503-26. MicroMedex, accessed 6/20/2011.