MentalHealthDaily

Antidepressants May Trigger Mania In Bipolar Disorder via Mitochondria

by GLOOM

Antidepressants, commonly used to treat major depressive episodes in bipolar disorder, might have more profound effects on our body’s energy factories, the mitochondria, than previously understood. A recent study examined how certain antidepressants alter mitochondrial energetics, potentially influencing the risk of treatment-emergent mania in bipolar disorder patients. Highlights: Antidepressants Double Edged Sword: While crucial for …

Analyzing Cardiovascular Effects & Risks of Newer Antidepressants

by GLOOM

Depression is a prevalent and serious condition in older adults and those with cardiovascular disease. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to treat depression, but when they’re ineffective, alternative antidepressants must be considered. Key Facts: Depression in Older Adults and Cardiovascular Patients: Affects 15-20% of patients with coronary heart disease. Limitations of SSRIs: While …

Long-Term Antidepressant (SSRI) Use Increasing: Overprescription & Withdrawal Hesitancy

by GLOOM

The rise in antidepressant prescribing, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) since the 1980s, is a complex phenomenon with broad implications for public health. While these medications are crucial for many, the increase in long-term use has raised concerns about overprescription, side effects, and withdrawal challenges. Key Facts: Rising Prescriptions: Antidepressant prescriptions, particularly SSRIs, have …

Exercise to Treat Depression: Aerobic & Resistance Training Effective Antidepressants?

by GLOOM

Exercise has emerged as an effective treatment for depression, rivaling medication and psychotherapy in its ability to reduce symptoms. Both aerobic and resistance training provide mental health benefits, with a combination of the two being optimal. However, exercise is vastly underutilized and more research is needed to uncover the mechanisms behind its antidepressant effects. Highlights: …

Prolonged Antidepressant Effect of Ketamine: NMDA Receptors & Lateral Habenula “Trapping”

by GLOOM

Ketamine causes rapid and sustained antidepressant effects that last longer than its presence in the body. This is due to ketamine getting trapped and accumulating in NMDA receptors, causing prolonged neural inhibition. Manipulating brain activity can shorten or extend ketamine’s effects. Highlights: Ketamine continues blocking NMDA receptors for 24 hours despite rapid elimination from plasma …

NLRP3 Inflammasome & Depression: A Target for Antidepressant Development?

by GLOOM

The NLRP3 inflammasome stands at the crossroads of immune response and mental health, playing a pivotal role in the inflammatory processes implicated in depression. Researchers are exploring the intricate relationship between NLRP3 activation and depressive disorders, highlighting the potential for innovative treatments targeting this complex molecular pathway. Highlights: NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation: NLRP3, a component of …

Allopregnanolone Agonists for Depression: Brexanolone & Zuranolone in Focus (2023)

by GLOOM

Allopregnanolone agonists represent a promising new class of medications for treating depressive disorders. Evidence suggests that allopregnanolone agonists exhibit rapid-onset of antidepressant action – particularly in women with postpartum depression (PPD). Key facts: Allopregnanolone is a neurosteroid that acts as a positive allosteric modulator of GABAA receptors and is decreased in depressive disorders. The allopregnanolone …