The Controversy Over Antidepressants

Delta opioid receptor agonists activate PI3K–mTORC1 signaling in parvalbumin-positive interneurons in mouse infralimbic prefrontal cortex to exert acute antidepressant-like effects

The delta opioid receptor (DOP) is a promising target for novel antidepressants due to its potential for rapid action with minimal adverse effects; however, the functional mechanism underlying acute antidepressant actions remains elusive. We report that subcutaneous injection of the selective DOP agonist KNT-127 reduced immobility in the forced swimming test, and that this antidepressant-like response was reversed by intracerebroventricular inje…

The Controversy Over Antidepressants

Rejecting an overly simplistic hypothesis is not grounds for dismissing an effective treatment.

Antidepressant Withdrawal Is Common and Debilitating

A new study found that antidepressant withdrawal is common and debilitating. Those using antidepressants for more than two years were more likely to experience withdrawal and to have severe withdrawal symptoms. The researchers found that 79% of those who tried to stop taking antidepressants experienced withdrawal, with 49% experiencing severe or moderately severe symptoms. Over a third (38%) were unable to stop taking the drug because of this. “…