A NEW ANTI-DEPRESSANT [ back to What's New ]
Pharmacia & Upjohn have submitted a new anti-depressant called Reboxetine to the FDA for review. SSRIs like Prozac and Zoloft work by blocking re-uptake of serotonin, which lightens and brightens the heavy, dark and bleak mood state of depression in which the glass is always seen as half empty. Reboxetine works by blocking the breakdown of norepinephrine at the synaptic junction. Increasing the supply of norepi will presumably boost energy, drive, vitality and motivation. It is well known that TBI may spare IQ while robbing the survivor of the capacity to initiate and complete activities, leaving her in a state of apathy and indifference. This is called executive function disorder which is distinct from feeling sad, worthless, etc. In the past, neurologists tried amphetamines to boost lost "get up and go." One problem with amphetamines is addiction. They also disrupt the normal sleep-wake cycle. Readers of New & Noteworthy are encouraged to find out more about Reboxetine from their neurologists, the FDA or Upjohn. Studies conducted so far indicate it boosts energy but is not addictive.