Abstract

MECHANISMS OF ACTION OF SOME ANTIDEPRESSANTS AND THEIR EFFICACY IN THE TREATMENT OF DEPRESSION

Gregory Elayeche Oko*, Maryam Ammani Lawal, Emmanuel Paul Okoi, Margaret Akpana Odey, and Khuyen Thi Kim Vo

ABSTRACT

Depression is a moody condition linked with imbalance of neurotransmitter. In recent time depression is becoming one of the most prevalent public health problems. Abusive drugs, certain medication and life events such as financial difficulties, lost of loved ones are some causes of depression. In this review we focused on the mechanisms of actions and efficacy of some antidepressant in the treatment of depression. Data were identified from online search of current and past reviewed literatures on depression with emphasis on the classes of antidepressants. The Monoamine Oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), Serotonin Noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and Serotonin receptor antagonists were the major classes of antidepressant discussed. In Conclusion, the classes of antidepressant used in treatment of depression exert their mechanism of action on the central nervous with mild or severe effects on other system.

Keywords: Depression, MAOI, SSRIs, SNRIs, SRAs.