Which of the following neurotransmitter is deficient in depression?

AIIMS Raipur - 2017 (Shift-3)

Mental Health Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur - 2017 (Shift-3)

Explanation

The question tests the knowledge of the neurochemical basis of depression, specifically focusing on the monoamine hypothesis.
Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter implicated in mood regulation. '5-HT' is the scientific abbreviation for serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine).
Research confirms that a depletion or deficiency of serotonin can lead to or worsen symptoms of depression.
Since options A and B refer to the same substance, the most accurate and complete answer is C, which encompasses both.
This concept is the foundation for the mechanism of action of many antidepressant medications, such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).

Option A: This option is factually correct but incomplete. While serotonin is deficient in depression, the question offers a more comprehensive choice.
Option B: This option is also factually correct but incomplete. '5 HT' is just another name for serotonin.
Option D: GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. While some research links low GABA levels to depression, its deficiency is more strongly and primarily associated with anxiety disorders and epilepsy.

Visual 1: Diagram - A simple illustration of a neuron synapse showing serotonin molecules being released, binding to receptors, and being taken back up by a reuptake transporter. This can help visualize how SSRIs work to increase serotonin levels in the synapse.
Visual 2: Infographic - A chart comparing the functions and deficiency symptoms of major neurotransmitters like Serotonin, Dopamine, and Norepinephrine.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Neurotransmitter deficiency in depression as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding this concept is crucial for nurses as it explains the rationale behind prescribing antidepressant medications like SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline).
Nurses must educate patients that these medications work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain and that it may take several weeks to see a therapeutic effect.
Monitoring for side effects of increased serotonin, such as nausea, headache, and insomnia, is a key nursing responsibility. In rare cases, excessive serotonin can lead to a life-threatening condition called Serotonin Syndrome.

How to Approach the Question

First, read the question carefully to identify the core concept: neurotransmitter deficiency in depression.
Analyze the options. Notice that 'Serotonin' and '5 HT' are listed as separate options.
Recall or deduce that '5 HT' is the chemical name for Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine). This means options A and B are synonyms.
In multiple-choice questions, when two options are identical or synonymous, and a third option combines them (e.g., 'Both A and B'), the combined option is often the intended correct answer.
Evaluate the final option, 'GABA'. While it has a role in the brain, recall that serotonin is the most famously and primarily implicated neurotransmitter in depression.
Conclude that since A and B are the same correct fact, C is the most complete and accurate choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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