Question

Which of the following are Anti-depressans its (a) Phenelzine (Nordil) (b) Benzedrine (c) Diazepam (d) Methamphetamine

Short answer

Phenelzine (Nordil) is an antidepressant.

Step-by-step solution

Recall Anti-depressants

Know that antidepressants are medications used to treat major depressive disorder and other conditions, like anxiety disorders. They work by adjusting neurotransmitters, the chemicals in your brain that affect mood and emotions.

Analyze Option (a): Phenelzine (Nordil)

Phenelzine, commonly known by its brand name Nardil, is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a class of antidepressants. Therefore, Phenelzine is an antidepressant.

Analyze Option (b): Benzedrine

Benzedrine is a brand name for amphetamine, which is primarily used as a stimulant. It is not categorized as an antidepressant, though it can improve mood due to its stimulating effects.

Analyze Option (c): Diazepam

Diazepam is a medication belonging to the benzodiazepine class, primarily used to treat anxiety, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and muscle spasms. It is not classified as an antidepressant.

Analyze Option (d): Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine is a powerful, highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It is not classified as an antidepressant and is more commonly known for its potential for abuse.

Key concepts

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI)

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors, often abbreviated as MAOIs, are a type of antidepressant used primarily to treat depression. They work by inhibiting the activity of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain. By preventing the breakdown of these neurotransmitters, MAOIs increase their availability in the brain, which can help alleviate depressive symptoms.

MAOIs are usually prescribed when other types of antidepressants have not been effective, as they can have significant interactions with certain foods and medications. For example, consuming foods high in tyramine like aged cheese or cured meats can lead to dangerous increases in blood pressure. Despite these challenges, MAOIs can be very effective for individuals who need them, especially when supervised carefully by a healthcare provider.

Amphetamines

Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that affect the central nervous system, resulting in increased energy and focus. They are often used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, a condition characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness. Benzedrine was one of the first amphetamines used and is known for its stimulating effects.

While amphetamines can improve mood temporarily due to their stimulating effects, they are not classified as antidepressants. Antidepressants specifically target mood disorders and work by altering neurotransmitter levels to achieve mood stabilization, whereas the primary function of amphetamines is to increase alertness and reduce fatigue. However, their stimulating properties mean they have potential for misuse, and they must be prescribed and monitored carefully.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines, such as Diazepam, are a class of medications primarily used for their calming effects. They are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and muscle tensions. Diazepam, specifically, is known for its ability to manage anxiety and provide muscle relaxation and sedation.

Benzodiazepines are not considered antidepressants, as they do not primarily affect mood through neurotransmitter level adjustments. Instead, they enhance the effect of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), leading to sedative and anxiolytic effects. They are generally fast-acting, which makes them useful for acute anxiety episodes, but they can be addictive over long-term use. Therefore, their usage is usually closely monitored to prevent dependency.