Researchers have found that SSRI antidepressant medications can improve brain function, specifically verbal memory, by enhancing serotonin levels in the brain. A study focused on the 5HT4 receptor, where serotonin binds, found that patients with depression showed improved cognitive abilities and mood after taking escitalopram for 8 weeks. The levels of the 5HT4 receptor decreased by 9%, possibly due to increased serotonin levels. This decrease was associated with improved cognitive outcomes, particularly in word recall. Researchers suggest that directly stimulating the 5HT4 receptor may be a valuable target for improving cognitive function, in addition to enhancing mood in patients with depression.
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Anti-Depressants May Improve Brain Function, Verbal Memory: Study
