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Alsabi RNS, Zaimi AF, Sivalingam T, Ishak NN, Alimuddin AS, Dasrilsyah RA, Basri NI, Jamil AAM. Improving knowledge, attitudes and beliefs: a cross-sectional study of postpartum depression awareness among social support networks during COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:221. [PMID: 35690751 PMCID: PMC9187926 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01795-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Postpartum depression (PPD) is the most prevalent mental health disorder after childbirth, notably during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, PPD is known to have a long-term influence on the mother and the newborn, and the role of social support network is crucial in early illness recognition. This study aims to evaluate the social support networks’ level of knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding PPD and examine their sociodemographic variables and exposure to the public information relating to PPD during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted via an online Google Form disseminated to people in Klang Valley through WhatsApp, Email, Facebook, Instagram and other available social media among postpartum women’s social support networks aged 18 years and living in the Klang Valley area (N = 394). Data were collected from 1 March to 5 July 2021 and analysed using the Mann–Whitney U-test and generalised linear mixed models. Results During the COVID-19 epidemic in Klang Valley, most participants had good knowledge, negative attitudes and awareness of PPD. Marital status, gender and parity all had significant correlations with the amount of awareness regarding PPD. Ethnicity, gender, parity and educational level showed significant association with attitude towards PPD. No significant relationship was noted between sociodemographic variables and PPD beliefs. Public awareness of PPD was also associated with knowledge and attitude towards it. Conclusions A significant positive knowledge, negative attitude and negative awareness level of PPD exist among social support networks for postnatal women. However, no significant effect of belief on PPD awareness level was noted. Implications Insight campaigns and public education about PPD should be conducted to enhance postnatal mothers’ awareness and knowledge. Postnatal care, mental check-ups and counselling sessions for the new mothers are recommended. In future studies, a closer assessment of postpartum social support, variances and similarities across women from diverse racial/ethnic origins is critical.
Strengths and limitations This cross-sectional study is one of the early studies on the area of PPD in the Malaysian region during COVID-19. Numerous data have been collected using low-cost approaches using self-administered surveys through Google Forms in this research.
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Szeliga A, Stefanowski B, Meczekalski B, Snopek M, Kostrzak A, Smolarczyk R, Bala G, Duszewska A, Smolarczyk K, Maciejewska-Jeske M. Menopause in women with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and bipolar disorder. Maturitas 2021; 152:57-62. [PMID: 34674808 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The transition to menopause, usually occurring between the ages of 40 and 55, is a time when women are particularly vulnerable. When preexisting mental illness is present, symptoms are often amplified during this period. Moreover, women with mental illnesses experience menopausal symptoms similarly to healthy women. In this narrative review we summarize the current data regarding menopause in women with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder, as well as current standards of management and care. The management of chronic disease in women suffering from severe mental illness is also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Szeliga
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland
| | - Bogdan Stefanowski
- First Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Sobieskiego 9, 02-957 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Blazej Meczekalski
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Milena Snopek
- First Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Sobieskiego 9, 02-957 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Kostrzak
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland
| | - Roman Smolarczyk
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Warsaw Medical University, 00-315 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Gregory Bala
- Appletree Medical Group, 2150 Robertson Rd., Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anna Duszewska
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Smolarczyk
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Marzena Maciejewska-Jeske
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland
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Yu Q. Traditional Chinese medicine: perspectives on and treatment of menopausal symptoms. Climacteric 2018; 21:93-95. [PMID: 29419312 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2018.1434983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Li RX, Ma M, Xiao XR, Xu Y, Chen XY, Li B. Perimenopausal syndrome and mood disorders in perimenopause: prevalence, severity, relationships, and risk factors. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e4466. [PMID: 27512863 PMCID: PMC4985318 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000004466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Limited information was focused on perimenopausal syndrome and mood disorders (depression and anxiety) in a specific population: perimenopausal women. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and severity of perimenopausal syndrome and mood disorders, and to analyze their relationships and risk factors in perimenopausal women in Shanghai, China.A cross-sectional study was performed on 1062 women aged 40 to 60 years from 3 communities. The general conditions questionnaire, Kupperman index, self-rating depression scale, and self-rating anxiety scale were used. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for perimenopausal syndrome and mood disorders.The prevalence of perimenopausal syndrome, depression and anxiety, which were primarily associated with mild symptoms, was 10.92%, 25.99%, and 12.62%, respectively. The differences in the prevalence and severity of perimenopausal syndrome, in the prevalence of depression, and in the severity of anxiety in different age groups were statistically significant (P < 0.001, P = 0.028, P = 0.003, P = 0.002, respectively). The relationships between perimenopausal syndrome and mood disorders were strong and positive (P < 0.001). It was found that age, employment status, personality characteristics, menstruation, and constipation were risk factors for perimenopausal syndrome, but monthly household income was a protective factor. Also, higher income and better medical insurance were beneficial to depression. However, disharmonious family relationships, irregular menstruation, constipation, and severity of perimenopausal syndrome were harmful to depression. For anxiety, attitudes to children status, cesarean section times, and constipation were risk factors.We concluded that perimenopausal syndrome and mood disorders are common in perimenopausal women in Shanghai, whose associations are strong and positive. Many risk factors are associated with and shared between perimenopausal syndrome and mood disorders. Therefore, appropriate management of perimenopause is needed to alleviate the conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-xia Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University
| | - Min Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi-rong Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University
| | - Xiu-ying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
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Abstract
BACKGROUND There have been reports of transient psychosis in women medicated for gynecologic conditions. OBJECTIVE The aim of this paper was to explore this literature. METHOD The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched for relevant case reports Results: The following reports were found: psychosis induced by gonadotropin-releasing hormone in the treatment of endometriosis, by clomiphene treatment for infertility, by bromocriptine treatment for milk suppression and by the withdrawal of domperidone prescribed as a galactologue as well as by the withdrawal of estrogen replacement therapy. CONCLUSION In susceptible women, psychotic symptoms can result from treatments that reduce estrogen levels, such as leuprolide acetate or clomiphene, or treatments that increase dopamine levels (bromocriptine). Psychosis can also be caused indirectly when estrogen treatment is discontinued or dopamine antagonism (e.g. domperidone) withdrawn. Estrogen-reducing and dopamine-increasing treatments used in gynecology need to be carefully monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary V Seeman
- a Department of Psychiatry , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON , Canada
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Gonçalves B, Fagulha T, Ferreira A. A Population-Based Assessment of the Relationship Between Menopausal and Depressive Symptoms in Portuguese Women. Health Care Women Int 2013; 34:86-100. [DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2012.721413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Espallergues J, Mamiya T, Vallée M, Koseki T, Nabeshima T, Temsamani J, Laruelle C, Maurice T. The antidepressant-like effects of the 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibitor trilostane in mice is related to changes in neuroactive steroid and monoamine levels. Neuropharmacology 2011; 62:492-502. [PMID: 21945799 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2011.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2011] [Revised: 08/30/2011] [Accepted: 09/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we analyzed the effects of a systemic treatment with the competitive 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) inhibitor trilostane on: (i) neurosteroid and monoamine levels in the brain, and (ii) the antidepressant activity of steroids and antidepressants in the forced swimming test (FST). 3β-HSD converts pregnenolone (PREG) into progesterone (PROG) or dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) into androstenedione. These neuroactive steroids are known to regulate neurotransmitters effects in the brain, particularly glutamate, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and serotonin (5-HT), with consequences on mood and depression. We previously reported that trilostane showed antidepressant-like properties in the FST and concomitantly regulated plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and corticosterone levels, markers of the stress-induced hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activation. We here observed that adrenalectomy/castration blocked the trilostane effect, outlining the importance of peripheral steroid levels. Trilostane (25 mg/kg) decreased hippocampus PROG contents and paradoxically increased circulating PROG levels. It also increased PREG levels in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. In the FST, a co-treatment with trilostane facilitated DHEAS (5-20 mg/kg) antidepressant activity, but showed only an additive, not facilitative, effect with PREGS (10-40 mg/kg), PROG (10-40 mg/kg) or allopregnanolone (ALLO, 1-8 mg/kg). Trilostane (25 mg/kg) treatment significantly increased 5-HT and (-)-norepinephrine (NE) turnovers in the hippocampus, an effect likely related to its antidepressant action. In co-administration studies, trilostane further decreased immobility following fluoxetine (30-60 mg/kg), sertraline (20-40 mg/kg) and imipramine (20-40 mg/kg), but not desipramine (20-40 mg/kg), treatments. A significant additive effect was observed for the selective 5-HT reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) at their highest dose. This study confirmed that a systemic administration of trilostane directly affected peripheral and brain levels in neuroactive steroids and monoamine turnover, resulting in antidepressant activity. The drug could be proposed as a co-treatment with SSRI. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Anxiety and Depression'.
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Turkmen S, Backstrom T, Wahlstrom G, Andreen L, Johansson IM. Tolerance to allopregnanolone with focus on the GABA-A receptor. Br J Pharmacol 2011; 162:311-27. [PMID: 20883478 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.01059.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Many studies have suggested a relationship between stress, sex steroids, and negative mental and mood changes in humans. The progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone is a potent endogenous ligand of the γ-amino butyric acid -A (GABA-A) receptor, and the most discussed neuroactive steroid. Variations in the levels of neuroactive steroids that influence the activity of the GABA-A receptor cause a vulnerability to mental and emotional pathology. There are physiological conditions in which allopregnanolone production increases acutely (e.g. stress) or chronically (e.g. menstrual cycle, pregnancy), thus exposing the GABA-A receptor to high and continuous allopregnanolone concentrations. In such conditions, tolerance to allopregnanolone may develop. We have shown that both acute and chronic tolerances can develop to the effects of allopregnanolone. Following the development of acute allopregnanolone tolerance, there is a decrease in the abundance of the GABA-A receptor α4 subunit and the expression of the α4 subunit mRNA in the ventral-posteriomedial nucleus of the thalamus. Little is known about the mechanism behind allopregnanolone tolerance and its effects on assembly of the GABA-A receptor composition. The exact mechanism of the allopregnanolone tolerance phenomena remains unclear. The purpose of this review is to summarize certain aspects of current knowledge concerning allopregnanolone tolerance and changes in the GABA-A receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahruh Turkmen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Sundsvall County Hospital, Sweden.
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Frye CA. Progesterone attenuates depressive behavior of younger and older adult C57/BL6, wildtype, and progesterone receptor knockout mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2011; 99:525-31. [PMID: 21669220 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2011.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2010] [Revised: 05/19/2011] [Accepted: 05/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone may have actions independent of intracellular progestin receptors (PRs) to influence depressive behavior. To investigate this, we examined effects of progesterone (P; 10mg/kg, SC) on the depressive behavior of mice in the forced swim test (FST). In Experiment 1, subjects were 4 to 6 months old, intact or ovariectomized (OVX) female and intact or gonadectomized (GDX) male, C57/BL6 mice. Progesterone reduced depressive behavior of young diestrous and OVX mice but male mice were impervious to effects of P. In Experiment 2, subjects were intact aged (20-28 months old) C57/BL6 female and male mice. Progesterone reduced depressive behavior of aged female and male C57/BL6 mice, albeit effects were greater among males. In Experiment 3, effects of P were examined in 4 to 6 months old, gonadally-intact, female and male mice that were wildtype or PR knockouts (PRKOs). Progesterone decreased depressive behavior of young adult, wildtype and PRKO mice, which showed greater immobility than did their wildtype counterparts. In Experiment 4, subjects were 18-24 months old wildtype or PRKO mice (Exp 4). Progesterone decreased immobility among wildtype and PRKO mice (which were not different in terms of their baseline depressive behavior). Together these data demonstrate that P decreases depressive behavior of young and older adult C57/BL6, wildtype and PRKO mice, which suggest that acute anti-depressant effects of P may occur independent of actions at "classic" PRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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van Die MD, Burger HG, Teede HJ, Bone KM. Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste-Tree/Berry) in the treatment of menopause-related complaints. J Altern Complement Med 2009; 15:853-62. [PMID: 19678775 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2008.0447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The origin of the current practice of administering Vitex agnus-castus in menopause-related complaints is uncertain, but appears to be relatively recent. Here we review the evidence for this application of Vitex based on evidence from pharmacological studies and clinical research. METHODS The mechanisms of potential relevance in the context of menopause are explored with reference to the current understanding of the endocrinology and neuroendocrinology of menopause and associated symptoms. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that, while evidence from rigorous randomized controlled trials is lacking for the individual herb in this context, emerging pharmacological evidence supports a role for V. agnus-castus in the alleviation of menopausal symptoms and suggests that further investigation may be appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Diana van Die
- Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
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Brown JP, Gallicchio L, Flaws JA, Tracy JK. Relations among menopausal symptoms, sleep disturbance and depressive symptoms in midlife. Maturitas 2009; 62:184-9. [PMID: 19128903 PMCID: PMC2693910 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2008.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2008] [Revised: 11/07/2008] [Accepted: 11/11/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the relations among hot flashes, other menopausal symptoms, sleep quality and depressive symptoms in midlife women. METHODS A large population-based cross-sectional study of 639 women (ages 45-54 years) consisting of a questionnaire including the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (CES-D) Scale, demographics, health behaviors, menstrual history, and menopausal symptoms. RESULTS After controlling for menopausal status, physical activity level, smoking status and current self-reported health status elevated CES-D score is associated with frequent nocturnal hot flashes, frequent trouble sleeping, experiencing hot flashes, nausea, headaches, weakness, visual problems, vaginal discharge, irritability, muscle stiffness, and incontinence. CONCLUSIONS The present study found significant links between depressive symptoms and several menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, sleep disturbance, irritability, muscle stiffness, and incontinence after controlling for covariates. These findings suggest that a potential mechanism in which bothersome menopausal symptoms may influence depressed mood during the midlife is through sleep disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P Brown
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Estrada-Camarena E, Rivera NMV, Berlanga C, Fernández-Guasti A. Reduction in the latency of action of antidepressants by 17 beta-estradiol in the forced swimming test. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2008; 201:351-60. [PMID: 18795270 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-008-1291-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2007] [Accepted: 07/30/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Antidepressants (ADs) are slow to produce their therapeutic effect. This long latency promotes the development of new strategies to short their onset of action. Previous reports indicated that 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) promotes the antidepressant-like activity of fluoxetine (FLX) and desipramine (DMI) in the forced swimming test (FST). OBJECTIVE The aim of the present work was to analyze if E(2) reduces the antidepressant-like onset of action of venlafaxine (VLX), FLX, and DMI. MATERIALS AND METHODS Independent groups of ovariectomized female Wistar rats were tested in the FST and in the open field after chronic (1 to 14 days) treatment with VLX (20 mg/kg/day), FLX (1.25 mg/kg/day), or DMI (1.25 mg/kg/day) alone or in combination with a single injection of E(2) (2.5 microg/rat sc, 8 h before FST). RESULTS VLX, FLX, or DMI by themselves at these doses did not induce changes in the FST at short intervals after their injection (from 1 to 7 days). The addition of E(2) promoted the antidepressant-like effect of VLX and DMI as early as day 1. Such action was also evident after 3, for FLX, and 14 days for both FLX and DMI, but not for VLX. The behavioral actions of these ADs combined with E(2) were not accompanied by increases in general activity in the open-field test. CONCLUSION E(2) clearly reduced the latency to the onset of action for these ADs in the FST. These results represent an interesting therapeutic strategy for the treatment of depression in perimenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Estrada-Camarena
- Farmacología Conductual Dirección de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñíz, México City, Mexico
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Ancelin ML, Scali J, Ritchie K. Hormonal therapy and depression: are we overlooking an important therapeutic alternative? J Psychosom Res 2007; 62:473-85. [PMID: 17383500 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2006.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2005] [Revised: 12/11/2006] [Accepted: 12/12/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review aimed to examine evidence for the role of hormonal changes in the onset and course of depressive symptomatology and to assess the possible future role of hormonal therapies in the treatment of depression. METHODS A Medline and PsycINFO search of the literature published between 1965 and 2006 was made of studies of depressive symptoms and hormonal treatment in women at all stages of reproductive life. RESULTS The cyclic fluctuation of gonadal steroids at menarche coincides with the beginning of gender-based differences in depression rates, which continue throughout reproductive life until menopause. Modifications in hormonal status, whether related to endogenous or exogenous exposure or to hormone deprivation, appear to be associated with affective disorder in a subgroup of women. For these women, a growing body of evidence indicates a biological pattern of vulnerability to mood disorders in response to hormonal fluctuations. This could have three major implications: that women vary in vulnerability to mood disorder when abrupt change in steroid levels occur, that these effects could be cumulative across the female life span, and that women do not arrive at menopause with equal risk of mood disorders or equal susceptibility to the effects of hormonal replacement therapy as has been assumed by current clinical research and practice. CONCLUSION While hormonal therapies could have positive effects in the treatment and prevention of depressive disorders, further research is required to differentiate hormone-responsive subgroups of women for whom specific hormonal treatments may be most beneficial. To this end, we suggest that a multifactorial model of cumulative vulnerability, which takes into account hormonal exposure throughout life, genetic vulnerability, and environmental factors, may provide better prediction of treatment response.
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Amin Z, Mason GF, Cavus I, Krystal JH, Rothman DL, Epperson CN. The interaction of neuroactive steroids and GABA in the development of neuropsychiatric disorders in women. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2006; 84:635-43. [PMID: 16860856 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2006.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2006] [Revised: 06/01/2006] [Accepted: 06/12/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A growing literature suggests that hormonal fluctuations occurring across the menstrual cycle, during and after pregnancy, and during the menopausal transition are associated with onset of affective disorders or exacerbation of existing disorders. This influence of the neuroendocrine system on psychiatric disorders is thought to be mediated by an abnormality in central nervous system response to neuroactive steroids such as estradiol, progesterone, and the progesterone derivative allopregnanolone (ALLO). This interplay is considerably complex as neuroactive steroids modulate the function of multiple neurotransmitter systems throughout various stages of development. While one could choose to study any number of steroid-neurotransmitter interactions, our group in addition to others has focused our investigative efforts on unraveling the contribution of neuroactive steroids to psychiatric syndromes and disorders via their modulation of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), the brain's major inhibitory neurotransmitter. The goal of this article is two-fold: to synthesize the clinical and preclinical research focusing on the interplay between neuroactive steroids and GABA as they relate to neuropsychiatric and substance use disorders in women and to integrate data from our laboratory using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy into this context.
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Friedman SH, Sajatovic M, Schuermeyer IN, Safavi R, Hays RW, West J, Ignacio RV, Blow FC. Menopause-related quality of life in chronically mentally ill women. Int J Psychiatry Med 2006; 35:259-71. [PMID: 16480241 DOI: 10.2190/br03-8gyd-5l9j-lu17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Menopause is an important life event that has not yet been well characterized among women with severe mental illness. Our goal was to evaluate menopause-related quality of life among severely mentally ill women. METHOD We conducted a cross-sectional assessment of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, ages 45-55, diagnosed with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, or major depression, who were receiving inpatient or outpatient psychiatric care. Women were compared regarding menopausal symptoms and quality of life using the Menopause Specific Quality of Life Scale (MENQOL). RESULTS Women with severe mental illnesses who were peri- and post-menopausal experienced considerable vasomotor, physical, sexual, and psychosocial symptoms related to menopause. On seven of 29 MENQOL items, women with major depression reported problems significantly more often than women with other serious mental illnesses. CONCLUSIONS This preliminary study indicates that psychiatrists and other physicians should consider the frequency and overlap of menopausal and psychiatric symptoms among women with serious mental illness in this age group.
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Perlman WR, Tomaskovic-Crook E, Montague DM, Webster MJ, Rubinow DR, Kleinman JE, Weickert CS. Alteration in estrogen receptor alpha mRNA levels in frontal cortex and hippocampus of patients with major mental illness. Biol Psychiatry 2005; 58:812-24. [PMID: 16112656 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2005.04.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2004] [Revised: 04/20/2005] [Accepted: 04/26/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender differences have been described in major mental illnesses (MMI). The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and hippocampus are estrogen-sensitive brain regions structurally and functionally altered in patients with MMI. We hypothesized that gender-specific alterations in DLPFC and hippocampus estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) mRNA levels may exist in MMI patients. METHODS We used Northern blot analysis to survey the expression of ERalpha mRNA transcripts in brain and body, detected by our human ERalpha riboprobe and in situ hybridization, to examine the expression pattern and quantify ERalpha mRNA levels in DLPFC and anterior hippocampus of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder compared with normal control subjects. RESULTS Northern blotting revealed brain-region-specific differences in expression levels of a 5 kb ERalpha mRNA transcript. By in situ hybridization, ERalpha mRNA was detected in all layers of DLPFC and all hippocampal subfields in all subjects. We detected greater DLPFC ERalpha mRNA expression in male compared with female MDD subjects and reduced ERalpha mRNA levels in the dentate gyrus of schizophrenics compared with control subjects. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that alterations in ERalpha mRNA levels exist in distinct telencephalic regions in male and female MDD patients, and in both genders in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Perlman
- Clinical Brain Disorders Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, MD 20892-1385, USA
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Tiemeier H, Schuit SCE, den Heijer T, van Meurs JBJ, van Tuijl HR, Hofman A, Breteler MMB, Pols HAP, Uitterlinden AG. Estrogen receptor alpha gene polymorphisms and anxiety disorder in an elderly population. Mol Psychiatry 2005; 10:806-7. [PMID: 15940291 DOI: 10.1038/sj.mp.4001697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Burt VK, Wohlreich MM, Mallinckrodt CH, Detke MJ, Watkin JG, Stewart DE. Duloxetine for the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder in Women Ages 40 to 55 Years. PSYCHOSOMATICS 2005; 46:345-54. [PMID: 16000678 DOI: 10.1176/appi.psy.46.4.345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The efficacy of duloxetine in the treatment of major depressive disorder in women of approximately perimenopausal age (40-55 years; 62 placebo subjects and 55 subjects taking duloxetine, 60 mg/day) was compared with that observed in cohorts of younger (<40 years, 94 placebo subjects and 85 duloxetine subjects) and older (>55 years, 26 placebo subjects and 25 duloxetine subjects) women. Women (ages 40-55 years) receiving duloxetine demonstrated significantly greater improvement in total scores on the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression compared with placebo at the study endpoint (week 9). Significant advantages for duloxetine over placebo were observed on 17-item Hamilton depression scale subscales (core, Maier, anxiety, retardation, and sleep), in addition to the Clinical Global Impression severity and Patient Global Impression of Improvement Scale, the Quality of Life in Depression Scale, and Visual Analog Scales assessing pain severity. The magnitude of duloxetine's treatment effect in women ages 40-55 years was similar to that observed in younger (age <40 years) and older (age >55 years) female patients. In the placebo treatment groups, however, mean changes differed substantially by age group with the smallest placebo responses observed in the 40-55 age group. Duloxetine (60 mg/day) was demonstrated to be an effective treatment for major depressive disorder in this cohort of women ages 40-55 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivien K Burt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Rudolph I, Palombo-Kinne E, Kirsch B, Mellinger U, Breitbarth H, Gräser T. Influence of a continuous combined HRT (2 mg estradiol valerate and 2 mg dienogest) on postmenopausal depression. Climacteric 2005; 7:301-11. [PMID: 15669555 DOI: 10.1080/13697130400001802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was planned to investigate the effects of continuous combined hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with 2 mg estradiol valerate and 2 mg dienogest (Climodien/Lafamme) over 24 weeks on postmenopausal depression. METHOD A total of 129 patients with a mild to moderate depressive episode according to ICD-10: F32.0, F32.1 in the context of a postmenopausal syndrome (ICD-10: N95.1) and a baseline score in the Hamilton depression scale (HAMD) > or =16 were included in the study. The primary target variable was depression severity as measured by the HAMD after 24 weeks of treatment. A four-point difference between HRT and placebo at the end of the study and, in addition, a final score < or =8 (corresponding to an improvement of > or =50% as compared to baseline) for the individual patient (responders analysis) were considered clinically relevant. Clinical global impression (CGI) of investigators (therapeutic and side-effects) at the end of the study was investigated. Secondary effects of HRT on depression severity caused by its effect on vasomotor symptoms or sleep disturbances (domino hypothesis) were taken into consideration. Also, the study addressed the question of whether the effect of HRT on depression severity depends on a history of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or postnatal depression (PND). RESULTS The results showed a clear and clinically relevant reduction of depression severity under HRT after 24 weeks of treatment and superiority over placebo (p < 0.0005) in spite of a strong placebo effect. The effects of the estrogen-progestin combination thereby seemed only partially to be dependent on the improvement of vasomotor symptoms and sleep disturbances. Also, the effects of HRT could not be shown to be dependent on a history of PMS and/or PND, even though women with and without this history clearly differed in baseline depression scores (p < 0.0001). The assessment of CGI was positive: whereas HRT was clearly superior to placebo with regard to therapeutic effects (p = 0.0014), there were no differences with regard to side-effects (p = 0.35). CONCLUSION The combination of 2 mg estradiol valerate and 2 mg dienogest can be regarded as an effective and safe treatment option for women with mild to moderate depression in the context of postmenopausal syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Rudolph
- Jenapharm GmbH & Co. KG, Jena, Germany
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Keefer L, Blanchard EB. Hot Flash, Hot Topic: Conceptualizing Menopausal Symptoms From a Cognitive-Behavioral Perspective. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback 2005; 30:75-82. [PMID: 15889587 DOI: 10.1007/s10484-005-2176-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
While most healthy women report that the menopausal transition is nondistressing, a subset of women does report that symptoms significantly interfere in their lives. The most common reason that women seek treatment during this time is for vasomotor symptoms, namely, hot flashes and night sweats. Research has suggested that reports of distress during flashing are only weakly related to more objective measures of the flash, including duration and frequency and that differences in treatment-seeking during the menopausal transition may be better accounted for by differences in symptom awareness mediated by a variety of personality and stress factors. This paper discusses hot flashes and night sweats from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, taking into account individual difference variables that may also affect the experience of menopausal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie Keefer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Professional Office Building, Suite 206, 1725 West Harrison, Chicago, Illinois 60612, USA.
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Bernardi F, Pluchino N, Begliuomini S, Lenzi E, Palumbo M, Luisi M, Genazzani AR. Disadaptive disorders in women: allopregnanolone, a sensitive steroid. Gynecol Endocrinol 2004; 19:344-53. [PMID: 15724809 DOI: 10.1080/09513590400018223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Allopregnanolone, a neurosteroid acting as a potent anxiolytic agonist of the gamma-aminobutyric acid A receptor, has been shown in animal models to modify its concentrations at central and peripheral levels according to the estrous cycle. Moreover, it modulates behavioral and biochemical responses to acute and chronic stress, anxiety, depression, aggressiveness, convulsions, anesthesia, sleep, memory, pain and feeding. These observations suggest that fluctuations of allopregnanolone might be involved in the development, course and prognosis of some mental disorders in humans. This has been hypothesized for depressive disorders, premenstrual dysphoria, anorexia and bulimia nervosa and Alzheimer's disease, where increased, decreased or dysregulated secretion of the main neurosteroids and their metabolites has been observed. Women show a marked gender-related sensitivity to disadaptive disorders. In addition to the well-studied role of sex steroids in modulating mood and behavior, a putative involvement of neurosteroid fluctuations, and in particular of allopregnanolone, has recently been hypothesized. In fact, several paraphysiological events and various disadaptive disorders in women are associated with modifications of circulating levels of this neurosteroid that might associated with a certain vulnerability to an altered adaptation to stressful life events.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Bernardi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Child Development, Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Estrada-Camarena E, Fernández-Guasti A, López-Rubalcava C. Interaction between estrogens and antidepressants in the forced swimming test in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2004; 173:139-45. [PMID: 14730416 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-003-1707-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2003] [Accepted: 10/30/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Several reports suggest that estrogens possess antidepressant effects and could facilitate the action of some antidepressants. OBJECTIVE To analyze the interaction between three different types of estrogens, 17 beta-estradiol (E(2)), ethinylestradiol (EE(2)) or diethyl-stilbestrol (DES) and the antidepressants, fluoxetine (FLX) or desipramine (DMI) in ovariectomized female rats subjected to an animal model for the study of antidepressant compounds, the forced swimming test (FST). METHODS The effect of the combination of a sub-optimal dose of FLX (2.5 mg/kg) or DMI (2.5 mg/kg) with a sub-active dose of E(2 )(10 microg/kg), EE(2), (2.5 or 5 microg/kg) or DES (1 mg/kg) was analyzed in both the FST and the open field paradigm. RESULTS The combination of a sub-optimal dose of E(2) or DES with that of the antidepressant DMI resulted in a clear antidepressant-like effect, evidenced by a significant decrease in immobility accompanied by an increase in climbing behavior. Sub-optimal doses of either E(2) or DES also facilitated the antidepressant-like effect of a sub-optimal dose of FLX. In this case, a decrease in immobility with a concomitant increase in swimming behavior was observed. Finally, the combination of EE(2) with either DMI or FLX decreased immobility and induced an increase in both swimming and climbing behaviors. All combinations decreased rats' locomotor activity when evaluated in the open field test. CONCLUSION In the FST estrogens were able to facilitate the action of two different kinds of antidepressants; however, these effects were dependent on the type of estrogen used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Estrada-Camarena
- Depto de Farmacobiología CINVESTAV-IPN, Calzada de los Tenorios 235, Col Granjas Coapa, Deleg Tlalpan, CP 14330 México DF, México.
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Jacobs PA, Hyland ME. An evaluation of the benefits of taking hormone replacement therapy with other prescription drugs. Maturitas 2003; 46:273-81. [PMID: 14625124 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-5122(03)00198-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Clinical trials of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) exclude women who have other health problems. The aim of our community survey was to investigate the impact of HRT on women with a variety of other health problems. METHOD Questionnaire sample of 935 women aged 45-58 years. The questionnaire assessed menopausal quality of life (QOL); self reported health status, prescription drug use and history of hormone supplement use. RESULTS Thirty five percent of the total sample had taken a variety of prescription drugs in the last 2 months. Prescription drug use was significantly higher in current and former users of HRT/ERT than in non-HRT/ERT users. Current and former HRT users who also took prescription drugs had a significantly lower mean length of HRT/ERT use when compared to women who took HRT/ERT with no prescription drugs. Peri and postmenopausal women currently taking HRT/ERT reported significantly higher MQOL than both former and non-HRT users, which suggest that the benefits of taking hormone supplements during the menopausal transition for some women. There was a significant interaction between hormone use, level of prescription drug use and QOL. Among women who have high levels of prescription drug use, those who take hormone supplements report significantly fewer deficits in QOL when compared to non or former users of HRT/ERT. Additionally, women taking selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRI) plus HRT report significantly higher levels of QOL compared to women taking SSRI alone. CONCLUSIONS The advantages of taking HRT among who take prescription drugs could be attributed to the mood enhancing effects of estrogens. HRT should be considered for some peri and postmenopausal women who are taking SSRIs or who are taking at least three different types of prescription drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela A Jacobs
- Department of Psychology, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon PL4 8AA, UK.
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Abstract
The influence of endocrine function on the mood of the menopausal woman continues to be debated and researched. While many women present at the menopause with depression and anxiety, the reasons for these mood disorders cannot be attributed to menopause status alone. The influence of psychological factors, lifestyle, body image, interpersonal relationships, role, and sociocultural factors in predicting levels of depression and anxiety in the menopausal patient cannot be ignored. This chapter discusses the research to date on menopause and depression and anxiety. Included is a discussion of the role of psychosocial factors in the symptomatology of perimenopausal, post-menopausal and prematurely menopausal women. The importance of understanding the individual menopausal experiences of women within the context of their lives while offering support, education, and validation is highlighted. The need for a multidimensional approach to treating the menopausal woman who presents with mood disorders is examined. Finally, this chapter makes it clear that psychosocial aspects of menopause management require further research, particularly on the experiences of women who enter menopause prematurely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda A Deeks
- The Jean Hailes Foundation, 173 Carinish Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
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