Author:
Harmer Catherine J.,Goodwin Guy M.,Cowen Philip J.
Abstract
BackgroundThe neuropharmacological actions of antidepressants are well
characterised but our understanding of how these changes translate into
improved mood are still emerging.AimsTo investigate whether actions of antidepressant drugs on emotional
processing are a mediating factor in the effects of these drugs in
depression.MethodWe examined key published findings that explored the effects of
antidepressants on behavioural and functional magnetic resonance imaging
(fMRI) measures of emotional processing.ResultsNegative emotional bias has been reliably associated with depression.
Converging results suggest that antidepressants modulate emotional
processing and increase positive emotional processing much earlier than
effects on mood. These changes in emotional processing are associated
with neural modulation in limbic and prefrontal circuitry.ConclusionsAntidepressants may work in a manner consistent with cognitive theories
of depression. Antidepressants do not act as direct mood enhancers but
rather change the relative balance of positive to negative emotional
processing, providing a platform for subsequent cognitive and
psychological reconsolidation.
Publisher
Royal College of Psychiatrists
Subject
Psychiatry and Mental health
Cited by
412 articles.
订阅此论文施引文献
订阅此论文施引文献,注册后可以免费订阅5篇论文的施引文献,订阅后可以查看论文全部施引文献