Many antidepressants might not be treating the condition, because they are being used to correct a cause of depression that does not actually exist, new research has suggested.
A new review of existing studies concludes that the “chemical imbalance” theory of depression, in particular low levels of serotonin, does not stand up to scrutiny.
Serotonin is a chemical transmitter that appears to play a role in governing mood and emotions.
Cyprus 1974-2022: 48 years of enduring Turkish occupation & impunity – “Lobby for Cyprus” Analysis
Most antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and were originally said to work by correcting abnormally low serotonin levels.
However the umbrella study, carried out by researchers at University College London (UCL) and published in Molecular Psychiatry, suggests that depression is not likely caused by a chemical imbalance, and calls into question what antidepressants do.
Read more: Sky
Ask me anything
Explore related questions
