Novel Therapeutic Strategies for Depression

Abstract

Depression is a complex neurological disorder that has many potential causes and treatment approaches. Though there are many conventional antidepressants available in the market, it is becoming increasingly difficult to rely on them as many patients may experience a lack of effectiveness or tolerance to these antidepressants. While current antidepressants increase serotonin and norepinephrine concentrations through reuptake inhibition, novel forms of antidepressants rely on the direct manipulation of receptors, thereby also improving neuroplasticity, which has emerged as a promising approach to treating depressive symptoms. In this literature review, various forms of novel antidepressants are analyzed. The mechanisms studied are Psilocybin’s long-term success, Ketamine’s rapid action, hormonal treatments’ direct targeted approach, and natural products’ reduction of neurotoxic side effects. Understanding how these powerful mechanisms work may allow for the research and creation of more effective antidepressants in the future.