[Calcium antagonistic actions of drugs used in treatment of affective disorders]

Abstract

Disturbances of intra- and extracellular calcium levels are often reported during the course of affective disorders. In this review calcium antagonistic properties of drugs used in the treatment of affective disorders are discussed. The effects of calcium channel blockers in animal models of depression and in clinical trials are compared to established treatment strategies. Knowledge on changes in calcium homoeostasis during the treatment of affective disorders may increase the scope of therapeutic options.