Treatment of mood disorders.
Depression is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, and its treatment includes a high percentage of the medications prescribed by physicians. Available antidepressant drugs are safe and effective, but less than half of all patients attain complete remission after therapy with a single antidepressant. Others exhibit partial, refractory or intolerant responses to treatment, emphasizing the need to discover new antidepressants. The mechanisms of action of available medications are directing the field toward new research avenues. This review highlights those areas we believe will influence the field and soon lead to better treatment.
Nemeroff
Charles B
CB
Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, 1639 Pierce Drive, Suite 4000, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA. cnemero@emory.edu
Owens
Michael J
MJ
D000818:Animals; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D015306:Biogenic Monoamines / Q000378:metabolism; D001923:Brain Chemistry / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000378:metabolism; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D015195:Drug Design; D006801:Humans; D017981:Receptors, Neurotransmitter / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D009435:Synaptic Transmission / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology
D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D015306:Biogenic Monoamines; D017981:Receptors, Neurotransmitter; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone