Antipsychotics and Antiepileptics Flashcards
What are some brain changes you see in someone with Schizophrenia?
over activity of dopamine pathways, increased serotonin activity, Glutamate and GABA also play a role
All antipsychotics work by blocking ___ receptors to some extent
D2
T/F, traditional antipsychotics tend to have more side effects and variable effectiveness compared to the newer drugs
true, have more side effects like increased incidence of movement disorders
What are the traditional antipsychotics?
Haldol (Haloperidol), Prochlorperazine (compazine)
T/F, non-traditional antipsychotics have increased risk of movement side effects
false, decreased risk since they do not affect dopamine receptors as strongly
What is the most feared side effect of anti-psychotics?
tardive dyskinesia, can be irreversible, leads to involuntary and fragmented movements, dysphagia
You have a pt taking anti-psychotics and is starting to demonstrate rigidity, tremors, and catatonia, what do you do and what do you think they are demonstrating?
neuroleptic malignant syndrome (side effect of anti-psychotics), must seek emergency treatment and stop medication immediately
What should a therapist be on the lookout for a pt who is taking anti-pyschotics?
be on the look out for early signs of motor involvement as it will decrease the risk of permanent motor dysfunction
What are the two types of epileptic seizures?
generalized, focal (only part of the brain is involved)
t/f, seizures are self-limiting
true, they will usually resolve on their own since the brain cannot sustain the high level of synaptic activity for too long
What are the three main mechanisms to how antiseizure drugs work?
- increase the activity of the CNS inhibitory neurons
- decrease the activity of the CNS excitatory neurons
- Stabilize the opening and closing of neuronal sodium or calcium channels
T/F, second generation antiseizure drugs are more effective than 1st generation drugs but and have very mild side effects
false, are not more effective but just have milder side effects
What are the more commonly used second generation seizure meds?
gabapentin (neurontin), pregabalin (lyrica)
T/F, patients on seizure meds can discontinue them at any time
false, typically on them for life
What are adverse drug reactions that you have to be aware of when you see that someone is on antiepileptics?
sedation, dizziness, ataxia/postural imbalance, GI distress-> can lead to decreased arousal and alertness, postural imbalance and uncontrolled seizure activity in patients
