current antidepresants

OBJECTIVE: In the case of prescriptions of pharmaceuticals in the context of the aut-idem-regulation the physician frequently does not know, which same-substance medication is dispensed in the pharmacy; the contemplable same-substance medications may differ in numerous features which raises questions regarding the obligation to give information and medical liability for medical malpractice. Currently, systematic evaluations regarding differences between summaries of product characteristics (SmPCs) of same-substance medications are missing...

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects 3-5% of women. It still remains controversial in diagnosis and treatment. Dynamic progress in neuroendocrinology in recent years led to PMS etiology explanation. It also influenced therapeutic approach. According to Wang et al. neuroactive steroids and their imbalance evoke PMS symptoms. That theory introduced other therapeutic interventions restoring neuroendorine balance. The newer antidepresants demonstrated excellent efficacy in treatment of somatic and emotional PMS symptoms...

INTRODUCTION: The authors analyze contemporary methods of contraception. Regarding oral contraception, they point to agents which decrease the efficacy of oral contraception. They also deal with agents which increase the level of estrogen, thus increasing side effects (paracetamol, vitamin C). ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES: Oral contraceptives may also have an impact on the efficacy of some medications (anticonvulsants, antidepresants). Health risks of oral contraceptives are also mentioned, as well as WHO's, guidelines for women using contraceptives based on risks and benefits...

Catecholamines, especially norepinephrine (NE) and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]), have been implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. However, their exact roles and their interrelationship are not completely understood. Antidepressants have various effects on the body, including action at the neuronal synapses of the brain; the two most important of these effects are blockade of the reuptake of neurotransmitters, including NE, 5-HT, and dopamine, and blockade of certain neurotransmitter receptors...