08_Psychostimulants

Question 1

Psychostimulants:

Two main classes used to treat psychiatric disorders

Answer 1

Amphetamines

Methylphenidate

Question 2

Amphetamines:

Uses

Answer 2

Narcolepsy

ADHD

Question 3

Methylphenidate:

Uses

Answer 3

ADHD in children and adults

Question 4

Methylphenidate:

Three names of drugs

Answer 4

Ritalin

Concerta

Metadate

Question 5

Psychostimulants:

Mechanism of action

Answer 5

Increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine

Question 6

Amphetamines:

Side effects

Answer 6

Restlessness

Insomnia

Poor appetite

Tremor

Palpitations

Cardiac arrhythmia

Question 7

Amphetamines:

Repeated use

Answer 7

Tolerance and dependence

Can also lead to sensitization

Question 8

Methylphenidate:

Side effects

Answer 8

Decreased appetite

Insomnia

Dysphoria

Abdominal pain

Tachycardia

Question 9

Methylphenidate:

“Drug Holidays”

Answer 9

Discontinuation during summer and end of year vacations in order to:

Minimize growth suppression and other adverse side effects

Confirm that drug is still needed

Question 10

Methylphenidate:

Growth suppression

Answer 10

Higher doses may cause temporary growth suppression

Adult height and weight are usually unaffected

Question 11

Methylphenidate:

Contraindications

Answer 11

Anxiety and tension

Anorexia

Severe hypertension

History of psychosis

Abuse history

Pre-existing motor tics

History of Tourette’s