Comparison of the mechanisms of action of antidepressants and their side effects

• Main Author: Magdalena Wasielewska
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Kazimierz Wielki University 2020-08-01
• Series: Journal of Education, Health and Sport
• Subjects: depression; mental disorders; antidepressants; side effects
• Online Access: https://apcz.umk.pl/czasopisma/index.php/JEHS/article/view/31055

<p><strong>Introduction</strong>: There are 4 groups of LPs divided according to the mechanism of action. They act on the brain by modulating monoaminergic systems, causing a series of side effects such as insomnia, sedation, anxiety, and a problem of a sexual nature. By appropriately selecting the drug and its dose, the negative effects of the therapy can be avoided.</p><p><strong>Aim</strong> : Comparison of the mode of action of a drug from a given group of antidepressants and description of its side effects.</p><p><strong>State of knowledge</strong> : An example from the first group of drugs with a receptor mechanism of action is trazodone - it acts on many receptors. The combined effect of the drug on all three receptors will significantly improve sleep in all its phases. It is as effective a drug as TLPD, and due to the lack of anticholinergic and cardiotoxic effects, it has a better tolerance and safety profile. It works quickly and improves sleep parameters, which is responsible for faster improvement of the patient's mental state. An example of a drug from the second group of drugs with a different mechanism of action is agomelatine. It is a synthetic analog of melatonin. The simultaneous agonist action on one receptors and antagonist action on the other causes a number of changes in the CNS, which are responsible for the antidepressant effect. The effects of the treatment can be seen after 2 weeks of use. The drug of the third groupneurotransmitter reuptake inhibitorsthere is bupropion. It intensifies the dopaminergic transmission. It does not disturb the sexual sphere, but increases insomnia as a side effect.<strong></strong></p><p><strong>Summary</strong> : By selecting the appropriate LP and its dose, side effects can be avoided.</p>