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Antidepressants - The theory behind the drugs

By: Sally Peacock, Fri Dec 9th, 2005 05:31:41 PM

There are a number of antidepressant drugs currently on the market. The older antidepressants, known as Tricyclics and MAOI's (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors), tend to be prescribed less often than the newer SSRI's (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors). This is because the SSRI antidepressants are thought to have fewer side effects and reduced toxicity in overdose.

Typical drugs within the SSRI category are Seroxat, Cipramil, and Prozac. 5 There are a number initial and on-going side-effects associated with these drugs including nausea, sleep problems, headache, restlessness, fever, sweating, dizziness, sedation and sexual dysfunction. Virginal bleeding has also been reported after withdrawal of SSRI's. The severity of any side-effects/withdrawal effects may be dependant on the length of time the drugs are taken and the dosage.

The neurotransmitter, Serotonin, is thought to have an effect on mood - although, its function is not fully understood. Therefore, the efficacy (effectiveness) of the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI's) is also not fully understood. However, it is thought that by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, it may be possible to lift depressed feelings or low mood.

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Current theory about these antidepressants is that they act within the brain to restrict the reuptake (reabsorption) of Serotonin back into the original nerve cell once the neurotransmitter (chemical messenger) has jumped between one nerve cell and the next. By preventing the natural reabsorption of serotonin, the neurotransmitter remains in the gap (synapse) between nerve cells and floods the system - thus increasing serotonin levels.

It is clearly a personal choice whether or not to take antidepressants drugs and to balance the risks against the possible benefits. Although, given our limited knowledge of the human brain and its delicate and complex nature it may be worth questioning the wisdom of attempting to alter its natural balance by artificial means.

About the author: Sally is a counsellor working in private practice and runs a website dedicated to emotional health issues. This article has copyright status - but you are welcome to use it provided you supply a hyperlink to www.thevelvetmind.com and are kind enough to notify us of its intended use. With Thanks