Fast-Acting Antidepressants: Can the Need be Met?

Abstract

Preclinical studies suggest that downregulation of β-adrenoceptors in the CNS in animals can be achieved with short term administration of high doses of antidepressants. Similarly, the function of the serotonergic system has been shown in preclinical studies to undergo rapid changes during antidepressant administration. However, the relevance of these observations to clinical antidepressant effects remains speculative. While manipulation of these 2 neurotransmitter systems has provided the rationale for several strategies for ‘rapid onset’ antidepressants, other neurotransmitter systems are undoubtedly involved in the mechanism of action. Dopaminergic, peptidergic and glucocorticoid receptor..