The History of Antidepressant Drugs

Depression is a widespread occurrence and antidepressants are prescribed readily. There are two main classes of antidepressants, MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) and SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors).

History

• In 1957, during a research trial into tubercular drugs, the first antidepressant, Iproniazid, was discovered. MAOIs represented a major advancement in the treatment of depression; however, the side effects were initially dangerous. The first tricyclic, Imipramine, was discovered during a clinical trial for a different mental health issue, schizophrenia. Prozac was released for treatment in 1987 as the first SSRI.

The Facts

• The development of Iproniazid and Imipramine led to the realization that depression can be a chemical imbalance and not simply situational depression. It was this realization that led to the development of SSRIs.

Significance

• Limited pharmacological results in the early 20th century resulted in wide use of electroshock therapy. In 1957, drugs began to be widely prescribed as the perceived benefits far outweighed the current treatment of depression, ECT. In addition, lithium was widely prescribed for use at insane asylums.

Considerations

• Unlike the 1950s to 1970s, today primary care doctors prescribe the majority of antidepressants rather than patients receiving prescriptions from psychiatrists.

Warning

• No amount of written information replaces a doctor consultation for the treatment of depression. Even with the advancements of the 21st century, antidepressants can still cause serious side effects, including suicide. No one should ever self-medicate for any depressive episode.