Behavior Modifying Drugs - SSRIs Flashcards
How do SSRIs work?
They block presynaptically located serotonin transporter selectively thus inhibiting reuptake of 5-HT
What is the result biochemically of the use of SSRIs?
elevation of synaptic 5-HT levels
What do SSRIs desensitize?
5-HT 1A receptors and alpha 2 receptors
Why would we want to desensitize 5-HT 1A receptors?
so that serotonin can stay in the synapse for longer
What are the SSRIs mentioned in class?
Fluoxetine (Reconcile/Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft), Paroxetine (Paxil), Citalopram
What is the preferred SSRI in animal medicine and why?
Fluoxetine because it is safe and tolerable
What are the therapeutic uses for SSRIs?
depression, anxiety, aggression, compulsive disorders
What are the advantages to SSRIs?
not sedating, dont cause learning impairment, no cardiac toxicity
What are the therapeutic uses of fluoxetine?
agression, acral lick dermatitis, hyperactivity in dogs
Treatment of urine spraying behavior, aggression, and compulsive disorders such as psychogenic alopecia in cats
What animals can you not give fluoxetine to?
breeding animals
How do monoamine oxidases work?
they catalyse the break down of monoamines including NE, 5-HT, and DA
Where is MAO present and what does it do?
it is present in the liver and facilitates the breakdown of tyramine rich foods
What happens in the absence of MAO?
hypertensive crisis
How does Selegiline (MAOI) work?
It is a irreversible and selective inhibitor of MAO-B
It acts as a free radical scavenger of DA derived oxidative species in the CNS
What is Selegiline FDA approved to treat?
canine cognitive dysfunction
What are the contraindications for Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors?
Should not be given in combination with TCAs and SSRIs due to the risk of serotonin syndrome
Should not be concurrently administered with amitraz (flea collar)
What are the adverse effects of SSRIs?
Withdrawal syndrome and serotonin syndrome
What are the signs of withdrawal syndrome?
tremor, dizziness, anxiety, electric shock like sensations, and flu like symptoms