˚₊‧ʚ♡ɞ‧₊˚ drugs for psychological disorders II ˚₊‧ʚ♡ɞ‧₊˚ Flashcards
What is bipolar disorder and what is mania?
Characterized by person altering between depression & mania. Mania refers to state of extreme euphoria, excitement, physical energy, wild optimism, rapid thoughts/speech.
What drugs are used to treat bipolar disorder?
Lithium, or anticonvulsants & antipsychotics.
What are the main features of an anxiety disorder? What are the different types?
Excessive & persistent fear/worry. Several types including generalized, panic, social, etc.
What are the various uses of barbiturates
The 1st gen of anxiolytics. Classed as “sedative hypnotic” class of drugs. They are a non-opioid, non-alcoholic, CNS depressants that are calming & sedating. Uses are categorized as long-acting, intermediate-acting, short-acting, and ultra-short-acting based on duration of action.
Shorter-acting compounds are more lipid-soluble and take effect rapidly, quickly entering the bloodstream and crossing the BBB—cleared from the system faster than longer-acting compounds.
Ultra-short-acting rapidly anesthetizes a patient in emergency situations & brings them out of anesthesia quickly. They also leave patients w/ no memory of the experience.
Does tolerance build to barbiturates?
To some effects; it develops to anxiolytic effects as well as the sedation effects. It doesn’t build to anticonvulsant effects.
What are withdrawal symptoms of barbiturates? Is it dangerous?
Can be severe & dangerous. Symptoms: the shakes, anxiety, muscle weakness, abdominal pain, hallucinations, seizures.
Why are benzodiazepines considered safer than barbiturates?
absorbed from small intestine rather than stomach; slower absorption rate, less fat solubility, crosses BBB slower. There are also minimal effects on the respiratory center of the brainstem. Less potential for abuse/tolerance & OD.
What are the effects of benzodiazepines in the elderly?
Aging makes us less effective at metabolizing & eliminating benzodiazepines, leading to build-up. Thus, can cause drug-induced dementia (cognitive problems, anxiety, nightmares, paranoia, agitation)
Does tolerance build to benzodiazepines?
Tolerance to sedative effects, though not as quickly OR strongly to anxiolytic effects.
What are acute behavioral effects of sedative-hypnotics?
Reduces anxiety, muscle relaxation, increased sedation & sleep (less REM sleep), impaired coordination, impaired learning/memory.
