Identify a drug class that treats the disorder. Discuss whether recommended medications are agonists or antagonists. Explain how the medication impacts the clinical signs and symptoms (treats the diagnosis).

 

The most used and the most common drug class that treats mood disorders related to

serotonin levels, especially Depression, is the Selective Serotonin Reuptake

Inhibitors(SSRIs) drug class: Fluoxetine, Sertraline, Paroxetine, Fluvoxamine,

Citalopram, Escitalopram and Vilazodone. They are also used to treat generalized

anxiety disorder, bulimia nervosa, bipolar depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder,

panic disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, treatment-resistant depression, post-

traumatic stress disorder and social anxiety disorder. (Edinoff et al, 2021.

According to Edinoff et al (2021), SSRIs are agonists. SSRIs block the reuptake of

serotonin in the synapses, therefore, increasing its level in the brain. Increasing the

level of serotonin gives a sensation of a happiness, elevating the mood. These drugs

tend to be well tolerated for most people, safer when it comes to overdose and are

inexpensive. The most dangerous side effect of SSRIs is Serotonin Syndrome or

Serotonin Toxicity which is rare but can be life threatening.

References:

American Psychological Association (APA). (2020). Working out boosts brain

health. https://www.apa.org/topics/exercise-fitness/stress Links to an external site.