Antidepressant drug

Antidepressant drugs are a type of medication used primarily in the treatment of major depressive disorder and other mood disorders. They are often used in combination with psychotherapy to improve the symptoms of depression, which can include feelings of sadness or hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

History

The history of antidepressant drugs dates back to the 1950s, when the first effective antidepressants were discovered. These were the monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and the tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). In the decades since, several other classes of antidepressants have been developed, including the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and the atypical antidepressants.

Mechanism of action

Antidepressant drugs work by altering the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, known as neurotransmitters, which are involved in regulating mood. The exact mechanism of action varies depending on the class of antidepressant. For example, SSRIs work by blocking the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin, thereby increasing its availability in the brain. SNRIs work in a similar way, but they also block the reuptake of norepinephrine.

Side effects

Like all medications, antidepressant drugs can have side effects. These can vary widely depending on the specific drug and the individual taking it, but they can include nausea, weight gain, fatigue, sexual dysfunction, and increased risk of suicide in some cases. It's important for anyone taking an antidepressant to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider to ensure the benefits of the medication outweigh any potential risks.

See also

• Major depressive disorder
• Psychotherapy
• Neurotransmitter
• Serotonin
• Norepinephrine