Antidepressants and Stress Impact Quiz

The process of generating new neurons in the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for memory and learning.

A stress hormone that can have negative effects on the brain, particularly in the hippocampus.

Antidepressants stimulate the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus, helping to repair damage caused by stress and depression.

Chronic stress can lead to reduced neurogenesis and damage to existing neurons, contributing to the development of depression.

The time it takes for antidepressants to work fully reflects the time required for new neurons to grow and integrate into brain circuits.

SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin in the synapse, increasing its availability.

SSRIs are used to treat major depressive disorder, dysthymia, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

A potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive serotonin activity, leading to symptoms like agitation, confusion, and muscle rigidity.

Bupropion is an antidepressant that increases norepinephrine and dopamine levels. It's known to be effective in smoking cessation and has less sexual side effects.

SNRIs increase both serotonin and norepinephrine levels. They are effective for treating depression and anxiety.

A chronic, recurring mental illness that severely impacts quality of life, potentially leading to suicidal thoughts.

The theory that depression is linked to a deficiency of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain.

The process of creating new neurons within the brain, primarily in the hippocampus and frontal cortex.

A brain region involved in learning, memory, and emotional regulation. Its function is impaired in depression.

Existing neurons have the ability to repair themselves or restructure their connections, essential for brain health and adaptation.

Depression is not simply caused by a chemical imbalance, but by complex brain changes affecting structure and function. This involves more than just neurotransmitters.

Antidepressant treatment aims to promote neurogenesis (new brain cell growth) and neural repair, beyond just balancing neurotransmitters, to address the underlying brain changes.

Antidepressants were initially developed to treat depression in the 1960s, then expanded to treat other conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, and panic attacks.

TCAs, characterized by their three-ring molecular structure, block the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine in the brain, leading to increased levels of these neurotransmitters.

MAOIs inhibit the Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) enzyme, which breaks down neurotransmitters. This leads to higher levels of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin.

An antidepressant that reduces insomnia-related depression. It is a 5-HT2 antagonist, but was removed from the market due to liver failure risks.

An antidepressant that belongs to the NaSSAs class. It blocks certain receptors to reduce anxiety, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction.

This drug isn't a stimulant, but it's a 'Pro-Vigil' for those who are tired

An anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer. Effective for bipolar depression and treatment-resistant OCD.

A glutaminergic antagonist that may have antidepressant effects. Its ability to reverse synaptic and behavioral symptoms is still debated.

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) work by preventing the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, which increases their levels in the brain. They also block certain receptors causing effects like drowsiness and dry mouth.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) block the breakdown of neurotransmitters, increasing levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

Irreversible MAOIs permanently inhibit enzymes, lasting longer and requiring a longer time to resume normal function. Reversible MAOIs temporarily block enzymes, resulting in shorter-lasting effects and a quicker return to normal enzyme activity.

MAOIs require dietary restrictions to avoid hypertensive crisis, a dangerous increase in blood pressure. This is due to consuming foods high in tyramine, an amino acid found in aged cheese, wine, and other fermented foods.

Serotonin/Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are a type of antidepressant that increase levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.