Posted by JohnL on February 21, 2000, at 6:25:43
In reply to ritalin and depression, posted by yvonne on February 21, 2000, at 2:02:01
Yvonne,
In my opinion Ritalin and the other stimulants are an often overlooked treatment for depression. This is especially true when multiple antidepressant trials have failed. Back in the 1950's stimulants were used extensively to treat depression.
The reason is because there are so many chemical imbalances, instabilities, or failures that can cause the exact same symptoms of depression or most any other psychiatric condition. Ritalin stimulates NE/dopamine function, and can sort-of be viewed as replacement of those chemicals since it very closely resembles them. It also increases blood flow in parts of the brain. So if someone's depression is caused by NE/dopamine failure and/or insufficient patchy blood flow, Ritalin will target those with a bullseye while antidepressants hit around the edges.
On the other hand, Ritalin can make some people more depressed. Clearly in that case there is a totally different chemical problem the Ritalin is just making worse.
I think it is wonderful that you at least know what medications keep your son functioning well. The whys and hows, including what I've mentioned here, are just theories and are quite frankly irrelevant. All that matters in my world is that the patient gets well and stays well. I'm very pleased with your son's results and wish you continued success.
poster:JohnL
thread:22858
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000220/msgs/22886.html