Pharmacology Flashcards
What are some examples of SSRIs? (3)
Sertraline
Fluoxetine - for under 18s
Citalopram
Paroxetine
Escitalopram
What is the mechanism of action of SSRIs?
Inhibit reuptake of serotonin from presynaptic serotonin pumps
SE of SSRIs?
GI bleeding
Anxiety/agitation
Insomnia
Inc. risk suicidal ideation in young people
Dec. libido
SSRI discontinuation sx?
Hint - mnemonic FINISH
Flu-like sx (e.g. lethargy)
Insomnia
N + V
Imbalance
Sensory disturbances (paraesthesia)
Hyperarousal (anxiety, agitation, etc)
What are SSRIs used to treat?
Depression
Anxiety
OCD
Bulimia Nervosa
What is a CI for citalopram use?
Can lead to QT interval prolongation
What are some examples of SNRIs?
Venlafaxine
Duloxetine
Mechanism of action of SNRIs?
Presynaptic blockade of both noradrenaline and serotonin reuptake pumps
SE of SNRIs?
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Constipation
Hot flushes
What are SNRIs used for?
Depression
Anxiety
What is an example of tricyclic antidepressants?
Amitriptyline
CI for TCA?
IHD
Arrhythmias
Severe liver disease
Overdose risk!!
SE of TCA?
Hint - Triple A
- Anticholinergic effects (muscarinic receptor block) - dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, urinary retention
- Antiadrenergic effects - postural hypotension
- Antihistaminergic effects - sedation + wgt gain
- Possible cardiac effects - prolonged QT, heart block, arrhythmias
What is TCA used for treatment?
- Neuropathic pain and prophylaxis of migraines
- Depression
- Anxiety
- OCD
- Chronic pain (much lower dose)
What is the target lithium plasma level for a patient taking it for the first time?
0.6 - 0.8 mmol/L