Abstract:

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a severe illness marked by a minimum of one distinct episode of depression lasting for a minimum of 2 weeks. This period is defined by clear shifts in mood, interests, and pleasure, as well as alterations in cognitive function and vegetative symptoms. On a global scale, it is considered one of the primary causes of illness burden, especially in North America. The treatment landscape for major depressive disorder (MDD) heavily relies on serotonergic drugs, despite their limited efficacy, prompting the search for new mechanisms and targets. This has led to the exploration of other processes and targets in search of novel treatment approaches. Recent endeavors in drug discovery have produced some innovative candidates, although a significant number of them have proven unsuccessful in clinical testing. The pressing want for safer and more efficacious antidepressants highlights the significance of continuous research endeavors. A full discussion is provided on the development of clinical research on potential medications and recent advancements in the discovery of small-molecule therapeutics. The primary objective of the study is to offer a comprehensive assessment of the existing status of antidepressant therapy, with the goal of guiding future research endeavors. The review contributes to the collective effort to improve outcomes for individuals with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) by explaining the intricacies of depression and the ongoing progress in drug research.

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