Major tranquillisers used as antidepressants. A review

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The efficacy of major tranquillisers (neuroleptics) as antidepressants is an area of ongoing research.
• Existing treatments for depression, such as tricyclic antidepressants, have limitations regarding side-effect profiles and onset of action.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing double-blind trials on the use of major tranquillisers as antidepressants.
• To evaluate the efficacy, advantages, and potential side effects of neuroleptics in treating depressive states.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review of 34 double-blind trials was conducted.
• Studies focused on the effectiveness of major tranquillisers in treating depression and mixed anxiety-depressive states.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests that some neuroleptics possess antidepressant properties.
• Compared to tricyclic antidepressants, neuroleptics demonstrated an earlier onset of action and a more favorable side-effect profile.
• Post-psychotic depression following neuroleptic therapy was likely an aspect of the underlying illness, not drug-induced.

Conclusions:

• Major tranquillisers (neuroleptics) show promise as antidepressants, particularly for mixed anxiety-depressive conditions.
• Further investigation into neuroleptics could elucidate the mechanisms of antidepressant drug action.
• Neuroleptics may offer a valuable alternative or adjunct treatment for depression.