Abstract

This paper aims to review the potential influence of noopept, a synthetic peptide and nootropic agent, on the treatment of depression and mood disorders. Despite a considerable body of research on noopept, the majority of early investigations have been performed on animal models, with more recent studies exploring its efficacy in humans. Noopept has been shown to enhance acetylcholine signalling, upregulate expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), protect against glutamate toxicity, and increase inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. Depression is a prevalent mental disorder characterised by low mood, altered sleep patterns, psychomotor retardation, cognitive slowing, and dysregulation of appetite and libido. Although noopept is mainly studied for its neuroprotective effects and cognitive-enhancing properties, its potential for the treatment of depression and mood disorders remains understudied. Hence, this paper examines the possible therapeutic effects of noopept on depression, highlighting the need for further research in this area.

Key-words: Depression; effects; noopept