A surprising study has revealed that protein could be the key to making antidepressants more effective.
The stats says depression medication only works for around half the population. And that can be a devastating reality for people who haven't yet found a way out of the darkness.
Published in Molecular Psychiatry journal, the City College of New York study suggests a protein called CK3 could be added to antidepressants to make them better.
"Identifying new targets broadens our understanding about the cause of depression as well as the mechanism of action of antidepressants, which could lead to the formulation of new antidepressants that work more efficiently and faster for more people," said lead author Julia Castello.
The SSRI mystery
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are the most common antidepressants used to treat depression around the world.
For some people, they work a treat. But unfortunately, there are 14 different kinds of serotonin receptors, and researchers don't know which ones help SSRIs work their magic.
Based on this latest study, the protein CK2 could help modulate one of the receptors called 5-HT4 (catchy name, right?).
Clearly more research is needed, but it sounds like a positive step in the right direction.
Getting support for depression
Antidepressant medication is a controversial topic, especially given they only work in 50% of cases. That's why it's super important to seek help if you experience any of these depression symptoms:
- Ongoing low mood
- Feeling hopeless or helpless
- Difficulty sleeping
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- Difficulty making decisions
- Irritability or low tolerance of others
In Australia, there are several reputable support services, including:
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78
Headspace: 1800 650 890
Black Dog Institute
Beyond Blue
