Other Antidepressants Flashcards
Give 2 examples of other anti-depressants
- Venlafaxine
- Mirtazapine
What is the mechanism of action of venlafaxine?
Inhibits serotonin and noradrenaline re-uptake
What is the mechanism of action of mirtazapine?
Inhibits resynaptic a2-adrenoceptors
What is the route of delivery of venlafaxine and mirtazapine?
PO
What are the indications for venlafaxine?
- Treatment of major depressive disorders following unsuccessful treatment with SSRIs
- Generalised anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia
What are the indications for mirtazapine?
- Treatment of major depressive disorders following unsuccessful treatment with SSRIs
- Panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia
What is mirtazapine particularly useful for?
Improving sleep in depressed patients with insomnia, and can increase appetite
What are the contraindications to venlafaxine?
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Uncontrolled hypertension
When should venlafaxine be avoided?
Pregnancy
Why should venlafaxine be avoided in pregnancy?
Risk of neonatal effects
Can venlafaxine be used in hepatic impairment?
Yes, with dose reduction
Can mirtazapine be used in hepatic impairment?
With caution