Depression Flashcards
1
Q
Name 5 classes of drugs used to treat depression
A
- Sertraline
- Citalopram
- Fluoxetine
- Venlafaxine
- Mirtazapine
2
Q
What is the mechanism of action of sertraline?
A
- Inhibition of serotonin reuptake due to binding to the serotonin transporter results in an accumulation of serotonin
- Serotonin in the CNS regulates mood, personality and wakefulness
3
Q
What is the mechanism of action of citalopram?
A
- Inhibition of serotonin reuptake due to binding to the serotonin transporter results in an accumulation of serotonin
- Serotonin in the CNS regulates mood, personality and wakefulness
4
Q
What is the mechanism of action of fluoxetine?
A
- Inhibition of serotonin reuptake due to binding to the serotonin transporter results in an accumulation of serotonin
- Serotonin in the CNS regulates mood, personality and wakefulness
5
Q
What is the mechanism of action of venlafaxine?
A
- Venlafaxine binds to serotonin and noradrenaline transporters and is a more potent inhibitor of serotonin reuptake than norepinephrine reuptake
- Noradrenaline in the CNS regulates emotions and cognition
6
Q
What is the mechanism of action of mirtazapine?
A
- Antagonises central presynaptic alpha-2-adrenergic receptors which causes an increased release of serotonin and norepinephrine
- Antagonises central 5-HT2 receptors which leaves 5-HT1 receptors unopposed causing anti-depressant effects
7
Q
What are some side effects of sertraline?
A
- GI effects - nausea and diarrhoea
- Sexual dysfunction
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
8
Q
What are some side effects of citalopram?
A
- GI effects - nausea and diarrhoea
- Sexual dysfunction
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
9
Q
What are some side effects of fluoxetine?
A
- GI effects - nausea and diarrhoea
- Sexual dysfunction
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
10
Q
What are some side effects of venlafaxine?
A
- GI effects - nausea and diarrhoea
- Sexual dysfunction
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Hypertension (at higher doses)
11
Q
What are some side effects of mirtazapine?
A
- Weight gain
- Sedation
