Posted by linkadge on January 19, 2008, at 9:55:32
In reply to Re: resetting brain neurotransmittors?, posted by Justherself54 on January 19, 2008, at 9:32:28
I absolutely think that antidepressant use (esp long term or started at a young age) can cause long term (or permanant) alterations in neurotransmitter functioning. Mice studies show that theraputic doses of fluoxetine (for instance) given at certain life stages can induce an upregulation in serotonin transporter expression which are long lasting (lifetime). There have also been studies that show they can alter the expression of the way tryptophan hydroxlase works to synthesize serotonin.
I've read other studies that suggest there is a permanant alteration in 5-ht1a autoreceptor function in mice given SERT blockers at for certain periods, and some studies suggest that serotonin receptor downregulation/desensitization remains to some degree in the long term.
I would imagine that there would be a persistant upregulation of SERT transporters in the NAA, just as cocaine induces an upregulation in DAT transporters there.
I personally have been "worse than before" since coming off long term use of SSRI's. I also have movement problems that only improve when I go back on the drugs. I also feel that I cannot acess many memories that I formed while on the drug. In addition, I feel strong urges to iscolate, as well as panic attacks, orgasic anhedonia, persistant genital anesthesia, and a mood that is generally much worse than before SSRI usage.
There is really no long term data to suggest that antidepressants are safe or effective for long term use, or that they really do prevent episodes of depression in the long term (let alone work at all - separate issue).
Telling patients to stay on the drugs long term is not yet data based (IMHO), and is probably more so that patients don't have to go through withdrawl.
Linkadge
poster:linkadge
thread:807533
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20080114/msgs/807590.html