A review of antibiotics, depression, and the gut microbiome

Emerging evidence indicates that disruption of the intestinal flora play an important role in the pathogenesis of depression. As one of the causes of such disturbances, the role of antibiotics in depression risk is gradually being revealed. Herein, we review recent findings showing that the use of both single and multiple antibiotic regimens may be related to depression by changing the gut microbiota and the brain–gut axis. Based on recent discoveries, we also suggest that several brain–gut interactive mechanisms (particularly those involving nerve and glial cells, neurotransmitters, brain neurotrophic factors, inflammatory factors, short-chain fatty acids, circulating metabolites, blood–brain barrier, and oxidative stress) may help understand the effects of antibiotics on intestinal flora and its relationship with depression.