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Gene Variations May Predict Antidepressant Response

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FRIDAY, July 18 (HealthDay News) -- Scientists may have found more evidence that a person's genetic make-up may help determine whether or not they respond to the antidepressant Celexa (citalopram).

Specifically, researchers at the Mayo Clinic have found that variations in the serotonin transporter gene could help select which patients should try this drug, one of the family of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Some 10 percent of the American population now take antidepressants, making it the most widely prescribed drug class in the country.


     
     
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Caution for Women Using St. John’s Wort

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St. John’s Wort (or Hypericum perforatum to the botanists, herbalists, and Latin lovers out there) is an herb commonly used to combat depression or serve as a ‘mood booster’. However, the herb will not work for every type of depression and is not recommended for use by everyone. In many ways, St. John’s wort presents a number of potential problems, especially for women.