AbstractThe antidepressant efficacy of some of the newer 5‐HT uptake inhibitors is reviewed on the basis of the available data. The placebo controlled evidence of efficacy of the 5‐HT uptake inhibitors as a class is substantial with a broad range of antidepressant action and apparent equivalent efficacy to reference tricyclic antidepressants. Some selective advantage in treating anxiety or suicidal thoughts associated with depression is noted and the growing evidence of a unique selective role in treating obsessive compulsive disorder with or without depression is commented