Pharmacology Flashcards
What foods should be avoided in patients on MAO inhibitors?
Aged cheese
Smoked fish and meats
Red wines, ales and beers
Other fermented foods
Avocado
Why should these foods be avoided in patients on MAO inhibitors?
Tyramine can build up leading to hypertension
What is neuroleptic malignant syndrome?
A life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic drugs (dopamine antagonists)
What are the symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome?
Fever
Altered mental status
Muscle rigidity
Autonomic dysfunction
What blood test results would be seen in neuroleptic malignant syndrome?
Raised creatinine kinase
Raised white blood cells
Deranged LFTs
Metabolic acidosis
Renal failure
What is the treatment of neuroleptic malignant syndrome?
Stop dopamine antagonist
+ supportive therapy
- Rehydration
- Cooling
What is the action of benzodiazepines?
Target the GABAA receptor to increase the inhibitory effect of GABA on the nervous system
What are the side effects of lithium?
Hypothyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism and hypercalcaemia
Fine tremor
Nausea/vomiting
Weight gain
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Leukocytosis
What monitoring is needed for patients on lithium?
Serum lithium
TFTs
Renal function
U&Es
When should patients be followed up after starting an SSRI?
1 week for patients aged 18-25
2-4 weeks for patients over 25
What medication might be helpful in patients with acute dystonia?
Benzatropine
What medication might be useful for patients with tardive dyskinesia?
Tetrabenazine
What medication might be helpful for patients with akathisia?
Atenolol
