The Activity Spectra of Antidepressives and Their Indications, With Particular Reference to Antisuicidal Prophylaxis

The author outlines the stages in the evolution of suicidal impulses, pointing out that depressive states rank among the most frequent causes of suicide, with up to 50% of recorded suicides having had a history of depression. He further states that choice of drug is governed by symptomatology presented. Several groups of antidepressant drugs are examined by pharmacological effect & suggestions are made for use of particular drugs with commonly-found patterns of symptomatology. 12 Refs. (NBB)