Antidepressant drugs

Question 1

Explain neurotrophic hypothesis

Answer 1

• Reduced BDNF -> Neuronal atrophy and loss in areas of the brain (hippocampus and cortical regions), leading to depression.

Question 2

Explain monoamine hypothesis

Answer 2

• Abnormally low levels of monoamine (serotonin and norepinephrine) function in the brain leading to depression

Question 3

What are the 3 main modes of action of antidepressant drugs?

Answer 3

• Inhibition of reuptake via monoamine transporters SER and/or NET (SSRI, SNRI, TCA)
• Inhibition of enzymatic degradation of monoamines (MAOi)
• Binding to serotonin receptors (5-HT modulaters)