The Role of Slow Changes in Catecholamine Receptor Function in The Action Of Antidepressant Drugs

Abstract

This review addresses the functional significance of the effects of long term treatment with antidepressant drugs upon catecholaminergic receptors. Reduced function has been reported at beta-adrenergic, alpha₂-adrenergic, dopamine (DA) autoreceptors and postsynaptic D₁ DA receptors. Enhanced responsiveness at postsynaptic alpha₁-adrenergic and D₂ DA receptors has also been reported. It is argued that the ‘down regulation' of beta-adrenoceptors is unlikely to represent the mechanism of action of antidepressant drugs. The enhanced responsiveness of alpha₁- and D₂ receptors seems relevant to the action of antidepressant drugs in several animal models of depression. Similar changes should now be sought in people.