Mood Stabilisers Flashcards
1
Q
What is the mechanism of action of lithium?
A
- Inhibits inositol monophosphatase → ↓ second messenger activity (IP3/DAG pathway)
- Modulates glutamate (↓ excitatory transmission)
- Enhances GABA (↑ inhibitory transmission)
- Inhibits glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3)
→ May influence circadian rhythm and neuroprotection
2
Q
What is the mechanism of action of sodium valproate?
A
- GABA modulation (↑GABA in the brain),
- Na channel inhibition
- NMDA antagonist
3
Q
What is the mechanism of action of carbamazepine?
A
Stabilises Na channels: binds to sodium channels increases their refractory period
4
Q
What is the mechanism of action of lamotrigine?
A
- Stabilises Na channels
- Block Ca2+ channels
- NMDA receptor modulation
- Stabilises some GABA modulation
5
Q
What is the mechanism of action of phenytoin?
A
Stabilises Na channels: binds to sodium channels increases their refractory period
…
(rarely used in psychiatry/off-label)
6
Q
What is the mechanism of action of topiramate?
A
- GABA modulator
- NMDA antagonist
- Na channel stabiliser
7
Q
What is the mechanism of action of pregablin?
A
Binds to the alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels, which reduces the release of certain neurotransmitters, including glutamate and substance P, and can help reduce neuronal excitability.
