0
What is an antidepressant and how does it work in the brain?
Jwashbish
Medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) delay the reuptake of one of these neurotransmitters, serotonin, thus raising levels in the brain. Higher levels of serotonin seem to help the brain send and receive messages more easily, which, in turn, improves mood. SSRIs are very popular because they seem to have the least side-effects among antidepressants. Additionally, side-effects tend to be mild to moderate and are transitory, usually disappearing after one to three weeks.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), work in the same manner as SSRIs, but affect the uptake of all three neurotransmitters associated with mood: serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. They do have more side-effects, however, and can be dangerous if overdosed. TCAs are not recommended to patients with heart trouble.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), an older class of antidepressants, increase levels of all three neurotransmitters by inhibiting an enzyme responsible for inactivating them. MAOIs also affect tyramine, a molecule inked to blood pressure; as a result, anyone taking MAOIs must stick to a very strict diet that forbids a variety of common foods like cheeses, yogurt, certain meats, bananas, and many more foods. Failure to do so can lead to a hypertensive crisis and may result in death. MAOIs also interact with many medications and are no longer widely prescribed.
Wiki User
∙ 12y ago
An antidepressant is a medication used to treat depression and other mental health conditions. It works by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain, which can help regulate mood, emotions, and behavior.
Add your answer:
Earn +20 pts
How does your mind and brain work together?
The brain is the physical organ in your head, while the mind refers to thoughts, emotions, and consciousness. The brain processes information and sends signals that generate thoughts and emotions in the mind. They work together in a complex relationship where the brain's activities influence the mind's experiences and vice versa.
How did Paul Broca contribute to psychology?
Paul Broca is primarily known for his work in neuropsychology, particularly in the area of language localization in the brain. He discovered the region of the brain now known as Broca's area, which is responsible for speech production. His research provided important insights into the relationship between brain function and behavior.
What is the relation between eye and brain?
The eye and brain are closely connected through the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eye to the brain for processing. The brain interprets this information to form images, allowing us to see and understand the world around us. The eye and brain work together to create our sense of vision.
What is the study of the mind and brain?
The study of the mind and brain is known as neuroscience. Neuroscience focuses on understanding how the brain and nervous system work to produce thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and cognitive functions. It combines aspects of biology, psychology, and other disciplines to explore the complexities of the brain.
What are the differences between the left brain activities and right brain activites?
Left brain activities are associated with logical thinking, analytical reasoning, language processing, and mathematical computations. Right brain activities involve creativity, intuition, imagination, holistic thinking, and emotional responses. Overall, both hemispheres work together to support a range of cognitive functions.
Do you have to get blood work done prior to taking antidepressant?
no
Which antidepressant drug elevates serotonin levels in the brain?
pretty much all of them, except for Wellbutrin
Antidepressant with Xanax?
Yes, depending on the antidepressant.SSRI's work well.Tricyclics can be dangerous
Can wine work for antidepressant?
sure... along with cocaine and hookers. 9 out of 10 docs recommend it
Does Trazodone help go to sleep?
Trazondone, originally, was used as an antidepressant but it was soon discovered that it wasn't a good one but did make people drowsy so now it is used as a sleeping pill rather than an antidepressant. Trazondone, originally, was used as an antidepressant but it was soon discovered that it wasn't a good one but did make people drowsy so now it is used as a sleeping pill rather than an antidepressant. i was on trazodone they gave it to me to help me sleep at night they work good depending on the dose am not trying to say that it will work for everybody but i have seen it work on a few. hope this helps
What is tardive dysphoria?
Tardive dysphoria is a condition caused by antidepressant use and stems from the brain overcompensating to adapt to said antidepressants. It results in a chronic and treatment resistant depression.
Is there an antidepressant that works the same way as oxycodone?
Oxycodone is not an antidepressant. It is a pain reliever. There is no antidepressant that works like a pain reliever. See your doctor and get what is best for you.
Is there an antidepressant that help stop smoking and not gain weight?
Chantix. While not an antidepressant, it is similar to Wellbutrin which is an antidepressant, and is also used to help smoking cessation.
Systems that work with the brain?
every system works with the brain, your brain is what sends the signals for the systems of the body to work.
What types of neurotransmitters do antidepressants target?
There are three very important neurotransmitters in the brain that antidepressant medications focus on. Firstly, let me briefly review antidepressant medications. Antidepressants are medications that work by increasing the amounts of chemicals or neuro-transmitters in the brain. A very common antidepressant of today is known as Prozac or Fluoxetine (the trade name). Prozac works by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain.Now, the three neurotransmitters in the brain are:1.) Serotonin2.) Norepinephrine3.) DopamineAll three of these chemicals have some influence on depression. As a result, medications have been designed to work on increasing the above neurotransmitters. For example, Prozac works on serotonin and Cymbolta works on both serotonin and norepinephrine. Serotonin is the most researched neurotransmitter so far, but research is looking into how norepinephine and dopamine also influence depression. Another neurotransmitter in the brain that has an influence over depression is aceytlcholine.
When heart stops how long brain will work?
The Brain Will Work For 6-7 Mins. Then The Brain Cells Will Start To Die
Which antidepressant that is also used to treat nocturnal enuresis in children?
Imipramine (a Tricyclic antidepressant)
