Drug Therapy Flashcards
(17 cards)
What is the main purpose of antipsychotic drugs?
To treat symptoms like disordered thinking and hallucinations, often seen in schizophrenia
How do antipsychotic drugs work?
They block dopamine receptors in the postsynaptic neuron, reducing dopamine absorption and neural stimulation.
What are atypical antipsychotics and how do they differ?
Modern drugs (from the 1990s) that temporarily bind to dopamine receptors and quickly dissociate, allowing normal dopamine transmission
What are SSRIs and what do they treat?
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors used to treat depression by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
How do SSRIs work?
They block the reuptake of leftover serotonin, making more available for future nerve transmissions.
What are anti-anxiety drugs used for?
To treat conditions like phobias and stress.
How do benzodiazepines (BZs) work?
They enhance the effect of GABA, the body’s natural anxiety-relieving chemical.
What do beta-blockers do in anxiety treatment?
They block the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline, reducing heart rate and blood pressure.
What did Soomro et al. (2008) find about SSRIs and OCD?
SSRIs were more effective than placebos in reducing OCD symptoms up to 3 months after treatment.
What did Khan et al. (1986) find about BZs for anxiety?
BZs were significantly more effective than a placebo in treating anxiety symptoms.
What is one long-term concern about drug effectiveness?
Most studies are short-term (3–4 months), so long-term benefits are unclear.
What are common side effects of drug treatments?
Dry mouth, muscle tremors (antipsychotics), addiction (BZs), and drug tolerance requiring higher doses.
What is a major limitation of drug therapy?
It treats symptoms but not the root cause of mental health issues, so symptoms may return after stopping the medication.
What is one benefit of drug therapy over talking therapy?
It’s quicker, easier, cheaper, and less threatening—some effects appear within days.
What is the ethical concern with placebos in drug trials?
Patients receiving placebos are denied effective treatment, which can harm their well-being.
What is the ethical issue around patient information?
Patients may not give valid consent due to poor mental health or lack of full understanding of side effects and risks.
