Drug therapy as a treatment for depression

Question 1

Function of SSRIs:

Answer 1

• Blocks reuptake of serotonin
• ISeretonin is available for longer in the brain, improving mood

Question 2

Function of SNRIs:

Answer 2

• Blocks the reuptake of seretonin and noradrenaline
• Seretonin and noradrenaline are available for longer in the brain, improving mood

Question 3

Function of MAOIs:

Answer 3

• Prevents breakdown of neurotransmitters
• Increases levels of neurotransmitters, improving mood

Question 4

Function of TCAs:

Answer 4

• Boosts effect of neurotransmitters by preventing reabsorbtion
• They have longer to act on the brain, improving mood

Question 5

Strength:

Answer 5

• Improves a patient’s symptoms to make it easier for them to attend other therapies

Question 6

Weaknesses:

Answer 6

• Improves symptoms but does not treat the disorder
• Drugs have unpleasant side effects: nausea, dizziness, drowsiness
• Patients are more likely to relapse after treatment