A case of a depressive patient with alcohol and nicotine dependence successfully treated with sertraline

Abstract

Multiple studies have reported that tobacco smoking, alcohol use, and depression are interrelated. Here we report a case of a 54-year old male depressive patient with comorbid alcohol and nicotine dependence who was successfully treated with sertraline. After treatment with sertraline, the patient's plasma levels of MHPG and HVA were increased, but his serum BDNF level was. Sertraline exhibits more potent efficacy than other SSRIs in inhibiting dopamine reuptake. This unique effect of sertraline on catecholamine systems contributed to the successful outcome in this case.