Interactions of antidepressants with neurotransmitter transporters and receptors and their clinical relevance

This review discusses the pharmacology of antidepressants as it relates to their blockade of human transporters for norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine, as well as their blockade of several different human neurotransmitter receptors. This blockade by antidepressants of transporters and receptors is thought to relate to therapeutic and adverse effects of these compounds. Knowledge of the preclinical pharmacology of antidepressants will help the clinician to identify adverse effects and drug interactions that may occur with these agents. The article also reviews drugs that have dual action (effects on serotonin and norepinephrine), which may provide a therapeutic advantage in treating depressed patients.