Pharm Flashcards
Tx for EPS (from 1st gen anti-psychotics)
Anti-parkinsonian agents (benztropine, diphenhydramine, etc), benzodiazepines, beta-blockers (esp. indicated for akathiasia)
Tx for anticholinergic symptoms (from low-potency trad antipsychotics and atypical antipsychotics)
as per symptom (eyedrops, stool softeners, etc)
Tx for tardive dyskinesia (from high-potency antipsychotics)
discontinue or reduce offending agent and consider using another atypical neuroleptic
- use benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, cholinomimetics in short-term
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What is neuroleptic malignant syndrome?
Change in mental status, autonomic changes (high fever, elevated BP, tachy), “lead pipe” rigidity, sweating, elevated CPK, leukocytosis, metabolic acidosis
- prompt withdrawal of all antipsychotic medications
High potency vs. low-potency neuroleptic side effects
High potency = EPS
Low potency = anticholinergic s/es
What heart medication can exacerbate psychosis in predisposed pts?
beta-blockers and digoxin
side effect of thioridazine? (2)
- significant QT prolongation
- irreversible retinal pigmentation at high doses
What is serotonin syndrome?
autonomic instability, hyperthermia, seizures
- coma or death may result
- from using MAOIs with SSRIs
Which antidepressant is the most lethal in overdose?
TCAs
What should one be careful for when using MAOIs?
Hypertensive crisis (when used w/ sympathomimetics or ingestion of tyramine-rich foods) - ex. wine, beer, aged cheese, liver, smoked meats
Which patients are specifically unable to tolerate side effects of antidepressants?
elderly and pregnant women
What can be used to convert nonresponders (of anti-depressants) to responders ?
T3 (Liothyronine), T4 (Levothyroxine), lithium, L-tryptophan (serotonin precursor)
What are MAOIs useful for?
Tx of “atypical” depression or refractory depression
What are anticonvulsants useful for? (carbamazepine or valproic acid)
rapid cycling BP disorder and mixed episodes
- but associated w/ increased risk of suicide
Why are antidepressants discouraged as monotherapy for BP disorder?
b/c of concerns of activating mania or hypomania
- addition of antidepressants as adjunctive tx to mood stabilizers not shown to be effective