10 depression Flashcards
Describe the core symptoms of depression.
Absence of positive affect (loss of interest and enjoyment in ordinary things and experiences), low mood, and a range of associated emotional, cognitive, physical and behavioural symptoms.
What are some additional symptoms of depression?
Changes in weight and appetite, guilt or self-reproach, low self-esteem, poor concentration, psychomotor agitation or retardation, sleep disturbance, suicidal thoughts or plan.
Define the risk factors associated with depression.
Female sex, older age, past history of depression, personal, social or environmental factors, postpartum period, family history of depressive illness, history of other mental health conditions and/or substance misuse, other chronic physical health conditions associated with functional impairment.
How long do episodes of depression typically last with treatment?
3-6 months.
Describe the complications of depression.
Impact on personal and social functioning, decrease in quality of life, potential increase in risk of medical complications, functional impairment, poor prognosis of co-existing conditions, increase risk of associated alcohol and substance misuse, increase risk of morbidity and mortality.
What are some methods of management for depression using the stepped care model?
Guided self-help, online tools, self-help courses, live therapy with therapist using instant messaging, anonymous online communities, self-help books, blogs, forums, videos, and audio guides.
Explain what serotonin syndrome is and how it can occur.
Serotonin syndrome is rare and potentially life-threatening. It occurs when combinations of serotonergic antidepressants are prescribed. Most severe cases involve MAOI and SSRI, but most cases are mild and resolve with the removal of the offending drug alone.
Describe the mechanism of action of tricyclic and related antidepressants.
They block the re-uptake of both serotonin and noradrenaline.
What are some common side effects of tricyclic and related antidepressants?
Hypotension, anticholinergic side-effects, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, confusion.
How do selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors differ from tricyclic antidepressants in terms of safety and tolerability?
SSRIs are better tolerated and safer in overdosage compared to tricyclic antidepressants.
Define the role of monoamine oxidase inhibitors in depression treatment.
They inhibit the activity of monoamine oxidase enzymes, causing accumulation of amine neurotransmitters.
What are some potential risks associated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors?
They have potentially dangerous dietary and drug interactions leading to hypertensive crisis.
How do tranylcypromine, phenelzine, and isocarboxazid differ in terms of their actions and side effects?
Tranylcypromine has greater stimulant action and is more likely to cause hypertensive crisis, while phenelzine and isocarboxazid are more likely to cause hepatotoxicity.
Describe the mechanism of action of venlafaxine.
Venlafaxine blocks presynaptic reuptake of both serotonin and noradrenaline, with a greater effect on serotonin reuptake.
What are some common side effects of mirtazapine?
Common side effects of mirtazine include increased appetite, weight gain, nausea, and headache.
