Abstract
Selected findings are noticed about the role and function of serotonin receptors followed by disclosure of mechanisms of action of antidepressants affecting primary serotonergic system; specifically, by antidepressants classified as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Following of these findings, mechanisms of receptor and postreceptor action of serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs) can be clarified, which is demonstrated on example of multifunctional drug trazodone.
The delay in onset of therapeutic efficiency of antidepressants is a function of the drugs, rather than the disease. Research into the biological characteristics of depression and its treatment may yield faster-acting antidepressants.