Depression

Definition

Depression is a common mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and various physical and emotional problems. It can significantly affect a person's ability to function daily.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants for depression.
2. Common side effects of antidepressants include weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
3. The monoamine hypothesis suggests that depression is due to an imbalance of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
4. Antidepressants often take several weeks to show their full therapeutic effect.
5. Discontinuation syndrome can occur if antidepressant medications are abruptly stopped.

Review Questions

• What are the common classes of drugs used to treat depression?
• Name three common side effects associated with antidepressants?
• Explain the monoamine hypothesis in relation to depression.

Related terms

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): A class of drugs that increase serotonin levels in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): A class of antidepressants that work by inhibiting the activity of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters.

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): An older class of antidepressant drugs that work by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin but have more side effects than newer agents.