Abstract

Depression in the form of serious mental illness is known to influence overall physiological and cognitive functions of any individual. Existing reports suggest that many brain regions mediate the diverse symptoms of depression but exact root cause of this illness is not yet known. However, several biochemicals, molecular and genetic bases have been found to be associated with brain disorders leading to depression. People with depression can best be treated with medications, psychotherapies, and other viable methods. The most commonly used antidepressants are the serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-nor-epinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tetracyclic antidepressants (TeCAs), buprenorphine and nor-adrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressant (NaSSAs) but most of them possess serious side effects in patients. The present review article illustrates an updated account of our understanding about the molecular constituents of the different regions of the brain that control the physiological and behavioural functions of a person, mechanisms of actions of currently available antidepressants and their side effects, if any, as well as the prospects of using phytochemicals as safe and effective alternative medicines.

Keywords: Depression; Brain functions; Antidepressant drugs; Antipsychotic plants; Herbal ingredients; Prospective antidepressants; Psychotherapies