Posted by djmmm on December 2, 2002, at 11:18:48
In reply to Receptor/brain damage?, posted by Suzi on December 2, 2002, at 5:30:48
I think Larry Hoover offers the best explanation. Antidepressants (ssri) do cause such changes in neurons as morphology, activity, size/number. Dammage refers to destruction of a neuron or axon terminal, and is generally not postive, whereas "changes" can and do elicit positive results.
Studies show SSRIs increase the number of neurons in various parts of the brain, and cause downregulation of various receptors, resulting in their antidepressant effects.
There is only one study I can think mentioned brain damage, and very large doses of SSRIs were used. The theory behind this method was to mimic what long term SSRI use would do to the brain. I haven't seen any similar studies
As far as "returning to normal" after antidepressant use, I believe the changes caused by SSRIs are permanent or at very least semi-permanent. One general rule is to be on the medications one year after you feel better, at least that is what my docs tell me...to ensure that these "changes" have occured, and lesson the risk of a relapse when I stop.
poster:djmmm
thread:130208
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021127/msgs/130252.html