Module 4 - Clinical Considerations In Pharmacology: Psychotropic Drugs Flashcards
What are the common treatments of depression?
Psychological therapy (CBT), mediations (MAOIs, SSRIs), community support and ECT (severe cases)
What are the common treatments of anxiety?
Medications (SSRIs, buspirone, TCAs)
Describe the mechanism of action of Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
Inhibits the enzyme monoamine oxidase to prevent breakdown of norepinephrine, dopamine and seretonin
Describe the mechanism of action of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Blocks reuptake of serotonin back into presynaptic neuron
Describe the mechanism of action of tricyclic antidepressants
Blocks reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin back into presynaptic neuron
What are the symptoms of MAOI toxicity?
Severe headache, blurred vision, difficulty thinking, seizures, chest pain, nausea, vomiting and stroke
What foods should be avoided when taking MAOIs?
Fermented, cured, aged and spoiled foods (pepperoni, salami, cheese, beer and wine)
What medications can cause serotonin toxicity?
SSRIs in combination
Tricyclic, SSRI and SNRIs in combination with non-selective MAOIs
What does the acronym HARMFUL stand for in relation to serotonin toxicity?
Hyperthermia
Anti-cognitive (Delirium)
Reflexes (Hyperreflexia)
Myoclonus (Twitching)
Fast heart rate
Unconsciousness
Loss of GI control (Nausea, diarrhoea)
What medications belong to the MAOIs drug class?
Phenelzine and tranylcypromine
What medications belong to the SSRIs drug class?
Sertraline, fluoxetine, Escitalopram and citalopram
What medications belong to the SNRIs drug class?
Venlafaxine
What medications belong to the TCAs drug class?
Amitriptyline and clomipramine
What should antidepressants not be discontinues abruptly?
Causes discontinuation syndrome
