QuestionI have a question about comparing the stimulant medication Ritalin to the anti-depression medication Wellbrutrin. Why is it that these 2 medication both affect the reuptake of dopamine but have different actions? In particular Wellbrutrin's mood improvements occur in 3 weeks or more after receptor changes while Ritalin's results happen immediately before receptor changes have occurred - Why? Once receptor changes after 3 weeks or so happen with Ritalin it losses it's effectiveness - Why? Shouldn't Ritalin's affect increase after receptor changes just like Wellbrutrin and most other anti-depressants? I would greatly appreciate your opinion on this matter. Thank You.
AnswerWhy is it that these 2 medication both affect the reuptake of dopamine but have different actions?
they both affect different pathways to the reuptake of dopamine.
In particular Wellbrutrin's mood improvements occur in 3 weeks or more after receptor changes while Ritalin's results happen immediately before receptor changes have occurred - Why?
Ritalin is a direct stimulant on the reuptake of dopamine whereas wellbutrin is more indirect. For details go to both products web pages and compare their methods of action at www.wellbutrin.com and www.ritalin.com
Once receptor changes after 3 weeks or so happen with Ritalin it losses it's effectiveness - Why?
this takyphylaxis is the problem with stimulants
Shouldn't Ritalin's affect increase after receptor changes just like Wellbrutrin and most other anti-depressants?
the takyphylaxis sets in and the drug becomes less effective.
