Psychotropic Medications Affecting Biological Rhythm

Abstract

There are many biological rhythms with various time oscillations regulating biological functions in living organisms, mammalians, and humans. Biological rhythms such as circadian, ultradian, and infradian or with longer cycles are independent biological organizations rather than dependent to the external stimulus. Although there is a sustained biological rhythmicity, psychiatric disorders and psychotropic drugs can change this process. The effects of psychotropics on biological rhythmicity can occur via possible neurotransmitter and neuromediator mechanisms within a relatively short time period on the other hand hormonal or genetic mechanisms can impact long term outcome. So far several studies suggested that biological rhythm disturbances play an important role in etiology and course of mood disorders'. Assessment of the possible effects of psychopharmacological agents on biological rhythm is important during the course of mood disorders.