Antidepressents Flashcards
What are the four main classes of antidepressants?
SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, and MAOIs.
What are atypical antidepressants?
A mixed group including mirtazapine, trazodone, bupropion, and agomelatine.
Q: How do SSRIs work?
Q: Name some commonly used SSRIs.
Q: What are common side effects of SSRIs?
Q: What is a major caution when prescribing SSRIs?
A: They block serotonin reuptake, increasing serotonin levels in the synapse.
A: Sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine.
A: Insomnia, nausea, sexual dysfunction, weight gain, and agitation.
A: Risk of serotonin syndrome and QT prolongation.
Q: How do Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) work ?
Q: Name some commonly used TCAs.
Q: Why are TCAs not first-line antidepressants?
Q: What are common side effects of TCAs?
A: They inhibit serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake and also act on histamine and cholinergic receptors.
A: Amitriptyline, nortriptyline, dosulepin
A: High overdose risk and significant side effects.
A: Sedation, dry mouth, weight gain, postural hypotension.
Q: How do MAOIs work?
Q: Name two examples of MAOIs.
Q: What are key risks of MAOIs?
A: They inhibit monoamine oxidase, preventing breakdown of serotonin and noradrenaline.
A: Phenelzine and moclobemide.
A: Hypertensive crisis (requires a low-tyramine diet) and dangerous drug interactions.
Q: What is mirtazapine’s mechanism of action?
Q: What is a key advantage of mirtazapine?
A: It blocks 5-HT2 and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, enhancing serotonin and noradrenaline release.
A: It causes sedation and is useful for patients with insomnia.
Q: What is serotonin syndrome?
A: A life-threatening condition caused by excessive serotonin, leading to hyperreflexia, agitation, and fever.
Q: What is the recommended first-line treatment for depression?
A: SSRIs due to their safety and tolerability.
Q: What is discontinuation syndrome?
A: Withdrawal symptoms when stopping antidepressants, including brain zaps, nausea, and insomnia.
