Pharmacologie Treatment of Depression

Abstract Serious mood disorders affect at least 17% of the population (lifetime prevalence) exacting a significant toll on human lives. One impact of severe depression is the possibility of brain damage caused by toxic levels of stress hormones. New data suggest a role for antidepressants in preventing such damage to the nervous system. Psychiatric medication treatments represent an important part of comprehensive treatment for clinical depression. This article addresses in detail current treatment guidelines derived largely from large-scaled empirical studies. Also discussed are the limitations of pharmacotherapy and the need for integrated treatment models.