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Mechanisms Involved in the Link between Depression, Antidepressant Treatment, and Associated Weight Change
Tomas Kukucka1, Nikola Ferencova2, Zuzana Visnovcova2
1Clinic of Psychiatry, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03659 Martin, Slovakia.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|April 27, 2024
Summary
Major depressive disorder impacts quality of life, and weight changes from antidepressant treatment often lead to withdrawal. This review explores the complex mechanisms linking depression, its treatment, and appetite regulation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) significantly impairs quality of life and social functioning.
- Antidepressant therapy is crucial but often complicated by associated weight changes, leading to treatment non-adherence.
- Understanding the link between MDD, its treatments, and weight regulation is vital for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanistic links between major depressive disorder and antidepressant therapy concerning body weight regulation.
- To synthesize current understanding of how depression and its pharmacological treatments affect appetite and weight.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating the interplay between depression, antidepressant mechanisms, and appetite control.
- Analysis of proposed pathomechanisms involving homeostatic and hedonic appetite regulatory circuits.
- Examination of neuromorphological and neurophysiological alterations.
Main Results:
- Significant mechanistic overlap exists between MDD, antidepressant action, and appetite/weight regulation.
- Dysregulation in homeostatic (humoral) and hedonic (dopaminergic) appetite circuits is implicated.
- Antidepressant-induced weight changes are a recognized issue impacting treatment adherence.
Conclusions:
- The relationship between depression, antidepressant treatment, and weight change is complex and multifactorial.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate these mechanisms and develop strategies to mitigate adverse weight effects.
- Addressing weight changes is critical for improving long-term treatment adherence and efficacy in major depressive disorder.
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