Question

Low level of noradrenaline is the cause of depression. What types of drugs are needed to cure this problem? Name two drugs.

Answer 1

Noradrenaline is a neurotransmitter and plays an important role in mood changes. Its low level leads to depression, so tranquilizers (antidepressant) are needed.

Anti-depressant drugs are needed to counteract the effect of depression. These drugs inhibit enzymes catalysing the degradation of the neurotransmitter, noradrenaline. As a result, the important neurotransmitter is slowly metabolised and then it can activate its receptor for longer periods of time.

Iproniazid and phenylzine are such two drugs.