Is clinical depression a "chemical imbalance" in the brain; what chemicals and is there a cure?

Brainyblonde

Clinical depression was originally considered to be a chemical imbalance in transmitters in the brain, a theory based on observations made in the 1950s of the effects of reserpine and isoniazid in altering monoamine neurotransmitter levels and affecting depressive symptoms [1]. Since these suggestions, many other causes for clinical depression have been proposed. Treatment of depression varies broadly and is different for each individual. Various types and combinations of treatments may have to be tried. There are two primary modes of treatment, typically used in conjunction: medication and psychotherapy. A third treatment, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), may be used when chemical treatment fails. Other alternative treatments used for depression include exercise and the use of vitamins, herbs, or other nutritional supplements. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clinical_depression Jul 17 06, 9:24 AM

satguru

No mention of serotonin? Current SSRIs (serotonin specific reuptake inhibitors) allow serotonin to last a little longer at the nerve transfer, which seems to have the greatest effect, and on anxiety which is in roughly the same part of the brain so they often come together. This is based on the discovery much depression is either caused by a lack of serotonin or a difficulty in absorbing it. On that evidence alone it can be seen how important just one chemical has, another, which far less research (fewer profits in it maybe?) is GABA, gamma amino butyric acid (and a bit more), which is also a vital neurotransmitter and when taken orally can have some amazing results. The medical profession ignore this research but does mean in the few places it is available you needn't get a prescription to buy it. Of course if it was possibly dangerous it wouldn't be on sale at all. Jul 17 06, 12:51 PM

Catamount

Like many other illnesses, depression exists on a continuum, from low mood (dysphoria) to full-blown clinical depression with suicidal or even psychotic features. Anti-depressant drugs have a place in treatment, but for most people a combination of drugs and other therapy works best. Gabapentin is available in Canada via prescription and is used for certain types of chronic pain as well as an anti-convulsant and psychotropic drug. Some other anti-depressants are also being used for the treatment of chronic pain. Jul 17 06, 5:56 PM