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Final OSCEs > Medication Explanations > Flashcards

Medication Explanations Flashcards

1
Q

What mnemonic can be used to explain drugs?

A 
Action
Timeline
How to take
Length of Tx
Effects: time before
Tests
Important side effects
Complications and CI
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2
Q

What is the action of SSRIs?

A

Alter the chemicals in the brain, mainly serotonin.

Altered balance of serotonin and others is thought to play a part in causing depression

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3
Q

What is the timeline of SSRIs?

A

Once daily (evening as causes drowsiness)

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4
Q

How do you take SSRIs?

A

Tablet

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5
Q

What is the length of treatment of SSRIs?

A

3-6 months after feeling better, then taper off

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6
Q

How long does it take for SSRIs to take effect?

A

4-6 weeks

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7
Q

Do you need any tests before starting SSRIs?

A

No

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8
Q

What are the side effects of SSRIs?

A 
GI (diarr, N/V)
Appetitie/weight change
Headaches and drowsiness
Anxiety for 2 weeks
Withdrawal
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9
Q

What are the contraindications to SSRIs?

A

Suicide risk

Past psychiatric illness

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10
Q

What are the complications of SSRIs?

A

None

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11
Q

What is the action of Methotrexate?

A

Disease modifying
Reduces inflammation
Suppresses immune system

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12
Q

What is the timeline of methotrexate?

A

Once weekly
Folic acid at another time
Increase dose slowly

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13
Q

How do you take methotrexate?

A

Tablet

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14
Q

What is the length of treatment of methotrexate?

A

Long term

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15
Q

How long does it take for methotrexate to take effect?

A

4-6 months

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16
Q

Do you need any tests whilst taking methotrexate?

A 
FBC, LFTs & U&Es:
- Before starting
- Every 2 weeks until therapy stabilised
- Every 2-3 months 
CXR before starting
17
Q

What are the side effects of methotrexate?

A 
GI, Headaches
Alopecia
Myelosuppression:
- Infection - go to A&E
- Unexpected bleeding/ bruising/ purpura
- Anaemia
18
Q

What are the complications of methotrexate?

A

Myelosuppression
Liver toxicity (careful of alcohol)
Pulmonary toxicity

19
Q

What are the contraindications to methotrexate?

A 
Pregnancy/trying
Breast feeding
Hepatic impairment
Active infection
Immunodeficiency
20
Q

What other advice do you need to give when prescribing methotrexate?

A

No NSAIDs/aspirin
Annual flu jab
Reduce alcohol

Final OSCEs (18 decks)

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