New Discussion-- Pharmacotherapy of Depression

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Respected members,Continuing with the discussionNeurotropic hypothesis for depressionThere is substantial evidence

that nerve growth factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)

are critical in the regulation of neural plasticity, resilience, and

neurogenesis.The evidence suggests that Decrease in BDNF is

associated with the loss of neurotrophic support and that effective

antidepressant therapies increase neurogenesis and synaptic connectivity in

cortical areas such as the hippocampus. Administration of antidepressants increases BDNF levels in

clinical trials and may be associated with an increase in hippocampus volume in

some patients.

MDD is associated with elevated cortisol levels

, nonsuppression (ACTH) release in the dexamethasone suppression test, and chronically

elevated levels of corticotropin-releasing hormone.

Significance -- Indicates a dysregulation of

the stress hormone axis.Thyroid

dysregulation has also been reported in depressed patients.

Estrogen deficiency states, which occur in the

postpartum and postmenopausal periods, are thought to play a role in the

etiology of depression in women.

Regards

Dr Ankush Gaikwad

Second year resident, Department of Pharmacology

GMC,

Nagpur