Psychiatry Flashcards
What is the first-line medication for mild-moderate depression?
Non-pharmacological first (CBT, lifestyle)
Medication if symptoms persist/severe.
What is the standard dose for Sertraline in moderate-severe depression?
50mg OD, max 200mg OD
Preferred in comorbidities (e.g., post-MI, elderly).
What is the maximum dose for Citalopram in depression?
40mg OD
Avoid >20mg in elderly (QT prolongation).
For which population is Fluoxetine preferred in treating depression?
Young adults & teenagers
What is the first-line medication for depression with neuropathic pain?
Amitriptyline
What is the dosing range for Amitriptyline?
10-25mg ON, max 150mg
What is a key consideration when prescribing Mirtazapine?
Causes weight gain & sedation
How long does it typically take for SSRIs to work?
4-6 weeks
What increased risk is associated with SSRIs in the first few weeks?
Increased suicide risk
What should be done to avoid withdrawal symptoms from SSRIs?
Taper off gradually
True or False: SSRIs should be avoided with NSAIDs or anticoagulants.
True
What is the first-line medication for Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?
Sertraline
What is the maximum dose for Escitalopram?
20mg OD
What is the preferred medication for short-term relief of severe anxiety?
Propranolol
What is the maximum dose for Diazepam for short-term severe distress?
2-5mg TDS PRN
What is a key consideration for the use of benzodiazepines?
Risk of addiction & withdrawal
What is the first-line medication for acute mania in bipolar disorder?
Lithium
What is the therapeutic plasma target for Lithium?
0.6-1.0mmol/L
What should be monitored regularly when prescribing Lithium?
TFTs, U&Es, lithium levels
What is the maximum dose for Valproate in bipolar disorder?
2g
What is a key consideration when prescribing Valproate?
Avoid in pregnancy (teratogenic)
What is the starting dose for Lamotrigine in bipolar depression?
25mg OD
What is a key consideration for prescribing antipsychotics?
Monitor metabolic side effects (weight, glucose, lipids)
What is the first-line medication for acute psychotic episodes?
Olanzapine
What is the maximum dose for Haloperidol?
20mg
What is the primary risk associated with Clozapine?
Agranulocytosis risk
What is the first-line medication for mild-moderate acute behavioral disturbance?
Lorazepam (oral)
What combination is used for severe acute behavioral disturbance?
Haloperidol + Promethazine (IM)
What is the maximum dose for Zopiclone in short-term insomnia?
7.5mg ON
What is a key consideration when prescribing hypnotics?
Avoid long-term use of hypnotics – risk of dependence
What is the recommended approach for short-term anxiety management?
SSRIs preferred for long-term anxiety management
What is the first-line approach for insomnia?
Non-drug approaches – good sleep hygiene
