Anxiety & PTSD Flashcards
Characterized by persistent, excessive worrying about various aspects of life for at least 6 months
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Marked by recurrent panic attacks and fear of future attacks
Panic Disorder
Characterized by intense fear of social situations or being negatively judged
Social Anxiety Disorder
Involve intense fear of specific objects or situations, such as heights or spiders.
Specific phobia
Involves fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable, such as crowded spaces
Agoraphobia
Symptoms include traumatic memories, avoidance of trauma reminders, negative changes in mood, and heightened arousal (hypervigilance)
PTSD
Which type of antidepressants are used to treat PTSD symptoms?
SSRIs (Sertraline, Paroxetine)
This controlled substance medication increases levels of serotonin in the brain, which helps treat depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. One common side effect is sexual dysfunction. These can cause insomnia so they should be taken in the morning. An adverse effect to monitor for is serotonin syndrome. Antacids should be avoided while taking this medication.
SSRIs (Sertraline, Paroxetine, Fluoxetine)
This medication increases levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain, helping to treat depression and anxiety. A common side effect of this medication at high doses is hypertension.
SNRIs (Duloxetine, Venlafaxine)
These are fast acting medications used to treat acute anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia. These medications have the potential for addiction and withdrawal symptoms. The antidote for this medication is Flumazenil.
Benzodiazepines (—azepam)
This medication increases levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain to treat depression and chronic pain. A major side effect of these medications anticholinergic effects.
Tricyclics (Amitriptyline)
This is an adverse effect of SSRIs. It causes a change in mental status, tachycardia, diaphoresis, shivering, and tremors. SSRI needs to be discontinued immediately. This adverse effect can be avoided by taking a safe dose at the same time everyday.
Serotonin Syndrome
