Antipsychotics: SAQ Flashcards
What is the primary mechanism of action of antipsychotic medications?
Blocking dopamine receptors in the brain
Which neurotransmitter is primarily targeted by antipsychotic drugs?
Dopamine
True or False: Antipsychotics are commonly used to treat depression.
False
What is the term for the side effect of antipsychotic medications that causes involuntary movements?
Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)
Which class of antipsychotic medications is known for causing fewer side effects like weight gain and sedation?
Atypical antipsychotics
What is the 4 differences between typical and atypical antipsychotic medications?
Typical:
•D2 receptor antagonist
•Reduces +ve symptoms
•Inc Extrapyramidal symptoms
•Has high potency in D2 receptors
Atypical:
•D2 & Serotonin 5-HT2A antagonist
•Reduces +ve & -ve symptoms
•Dec Extrapyramidal symptoms
• Has low potency in D2 receptors
What is the term for a rare but serious side effect of antipsychotic medications that involves high fever, unstable blood pressure, and delirium?
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)
Which antipsychotic medication is commonly used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder?
Risperidone
What is the term for the gradual reduction of antipsychotic medication dosage?
Tapering
What is the primary goal of using antipsychotic medications in the treatment of psychotic disorders?
Managing symptoms and improving quality of life
Give 3 AE of typical antipsychotics
- Extrapyramidal SE:
↳ Acute dystonia
↳ Pseudoparkinsonism
↳ Akathisia
↳ Tardive Dyskinesia - Anti-HAM SE:
↳ Anti-Histamine (Sedation, ↑ Weight)
↳ Anti-Adrenergic (Ortho hypo, sexual dysfunc)
↳ Antimuscarinic
(Xerostomia, Tachycardia, blurry vision,
urinary retention, constipation)
What is the term for the phenomenon where some patients do not respond to antipsychotic medications?
Treatment-resistant schizophrenia
What is the primary concern when prescribing antipsychotic medications to elderly patients?
Increased risk of falls and cognitive impairment
Which of the following is a high-potency typical antipsychotic?
A) Chlorpromazine
B) Haloperidol
C) Thioridazine
D) Clozapine
ANS: B) Haloperidol
A) Chlorpromazine - low potency
B) Haloperidol
C) Thioridazine - low potency
D) Clozapine - Atypical antipsychotics
Which neurotransmitter system is also affected by antipsychotic medications besides dopamine?
Serotonin
True or False: Antipsychotic medications can be used as a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders.
False
What is the term for the state of being free from psychotic symptoms?
Remission
Which of the antipsychotic medication is commonly used to treat both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia?
A) Chlorpromazine
B) Perphenazine
C) Olanzapine
D) Thioridazine
ANS: C) Olanzapine
A) Chlorpromazine - High potency typical
B) Perphenazine - High potency typical
C) Olanzapine - Atypical
D) Thioridazine - Low potency typical
What is the term for the involuntary muscle contractions caused by antipsychotic medications?
Dystonia
What is the primary reason for monitoring metabolic parameters in patients taking antipsychotic medications?
To prevent weight gain and metabolic syndrome
What is the term for the combination of psychotic symptoms and mood symptoms, often seen in bipolar disorder?
Psychosis with mood symptoms
Which antipsychotic medication is commonly used for the treatment of Tourette syndrome?
Haloperidol
What is the term for the strategy of combining antipsychotic medications with other psychotropic drugs?
Augmentation
