The History of GABAergic Medications in Depression

This podcast explores the historical use and efficacy of GABAergic medications, such as benzodiazepines, in treating depression. It discusses how older GABAergic drugs, like barbiturates, were replaced by benzodiazepines and later by the Z hypnotics. The podcast highlights that these medications are GABAergic and have differences in safety but not efficacy. It also addresses the shifting definition of depression and the role of GABAergic medications in its treatment. The episode delves into studies that suggest benzodiazepines, particularly alprazolam, can have direct antidepressant effects, though they are more effective for mild cases of depression and less so for melancholic depression. However, the podcast emphasizes the lack of long-term studies on benzodiazepines in depression and discusses concerns about dependence, tolerance, withdrawal, and the impairment of cognitive and emotional functions associated with their use.