Background: Abnormalities in different parameters of the norepinephrine system have been widely described in major depression. The presence of α2-adrenoreceptors in blood platelets, similar to those in the brain, prompted us to evaluate them in depressed patients, as compared with healthy controls. Methods: Fifteen outpatients affected by major depression, according to DSM IV criteria, and 15 comparable healthy control subjects, were included in the study. The α2-adrenoreceptors were measured by means of the specific binding of [3H]rauwolscine, a highly selective antagonist for this receptor subtype. The severity of depression was assessed by means of the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD). Results: The results did not show any difference in [3H]rauwolscine binding parameters (Bmax and Kd) between patients and controls. However, in the patients, a significant and positive correlation between Bmax, which measures the density of the receptors, and HRSD total score was detected. Conclusions: Therefore, although no change in α2-adrenoreceptors seems to occur in major depression, the density of these receptors would seem to be related to the severity of depressive symptoms.

Keywords:
Norepinephrine, Depression, α2-Adrenoreceptors, [3H]rauwolscine binding, Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD)
This content is only available via PDF.
© 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel
2001
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.