Antidepressants Flashcards
What is depression
Intense and prolonged inability to interact socially, work and carry out ADLs
What are the types of depression
Chemical which is an imbalance or genetic
Situational which is caused by an external trigger
Signs and symptoms of depression
Insomnia Waking Anorexia Constipation Loss of motivation Fatigue
What are black box warnings
High or increased risk of suicide
Who’s most susceptible to adverse effects
Paediatrics
Geriatrics
Adverse effects of depression drugs
Extrapyramidal rxns LOO changes LOC changes Hypotension Sedation Anticholinergic effects ECG changes
Tricyclics
Inhibit the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine
Treat both chemical and external depression
Could also work for Bipolar disorder
Tricyclics
Amitriptyline
Imiparamine
MAOIs
Naturally occurring enzyme in mitochondria in nerve endings of kidneys, liver and intestines
Inhibit breakdown of norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine
Take effect in 4-8 weeks
Tricyclics interactions
Tyramine foods
SSRIs
Block reuptake of serotonin
SNRI/NDRI help regulate brain chemistry levels
Uses of SSRIs
Minor depressive disorders for long term
Short term major depressive disorders
Serotonin syndrome
May appear after 2h of first dose
Signs and symptoms: mental changes, HTN, tremors, sweating and ataxia
Interactions of SSRIs
Lithium
Herbals
MAOIs
Why is Prozac special
Only approved antidepressant for pediatric use
