Depression is a mental disorder with feelings of sadness, loneliness and despair. It can be treated with anti-depressant medicines in up to 80% of patients. The challenge is to develop medicines that more accurately target the brain functions concerned. Pharmaceutical companies are rising to the challenge, so millions more people with depression can lead better lives.
Disease: Depression
Last update: June 2008
Intro
FAQ: What does the future hold?
Research into antidepressants continues to be very active. The increased understanding of the brain's biochemistry is leading to agents that more and more accurately target the activities of the neurotransmitters serotonin and noradrenaline.
In the longer term, one avenue being explored is the development of substances that work on a neurotransmitter called 'substance P', which is involved in pain and mood.
In the longer term, one avenue being explored is the development of substances that work on a neurotransmitter called 'substance P', which is involved in pain and mood.