[Mechanism of action and indications for psychopharmaceutic agents; possibilities and limitations in the elderly].

Abstract

This article comprises a systematic ans schematic survey of neuroleptics and antidepressants, their mode of action in the central nervous system, indications and side-effects. Psychic disorders in the aged may be due to anatomical cerebral lesions, but they may be also "functional'. Both types of disorders are concisely described. The possibilities and limitations of treatment with psychotropic drugs are reviewed and special attention is given to the specific problems of this type of therapy in patients of advanced age. It is pointed out that psychic disorders in the aged are multiconditional and that psychopharmacotherapy is just one component of the treatment. The neuropeptide concept is described. The putative clinical significances of neuropeptides derived from ACTH, vasopressin and beta-endorphin (e.g. DTgammaE) are mentioned with respect to learning- and memory processes and schizophrenia.

• Authors: W M Verhoeven
• Journal: Gerontologie (Gerontologie) Vol. 12 Issue 3 Pg. 126-38 (Aug 1981) ISSN: 0168-8774 [Print] Netherlands
• Vernacular Title: Werkingsmechanisme an indicaties van psychofarmaca; mogelijkheden en beperkingen bij bejaarden.
• PMID: 6115793 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antidepressive Agents
• Antipsychotic Agents
• Endorphins
• Vasopressins
• Adrenocorticotropic Hormone

Topics

• Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (pharmacology)
• Aged
• Antidepressive Agents (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Antipsychotic Agents (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Central Nervous System (drug effects)
• Depression (drug therapy)
• Drug Interactions
• Endorphins (pharmacology)
• Humans
• Mental Disorders (drug therapy)
• Vasopressins (pharmacology)