Pharmacotherapy of Depression and Anxiety Disorders

Depression and anxiety are mental disorders that are difficult to diagnose and even more difficult to treat. While pharmacotherapy is one strong pillar of management of these disorders, behavioral therapy and counseling are other pillars that support proper management. While conventional agents like tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) have been the mainstay of treatment for several decades, their use has been superseded by newer and safer agents like the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and others. Similarly, with better understanding of the pathophysiology of anxiety disorders, the conventional drugs like benzodiazepines and antihistamines have taken the backseat while newer cross-functional agents like the antidepressants and anticonvulsants are gaining more importance. This chapter details the commonly used antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, along with a brief focus on the newer upcoming therapeutic options.