Unit 3 Pharmacological Interventions for Anxiety Disorders

Question 1

Antidepressants

Answer 1

Antidepressants
 SSRIs – 1st Line (paroxetine, fluoxetine, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, and sertraline.
 Paroxetine has a more calming affect
 SNRIs – Venlafaxine – tx of severe anxiety d/o duloxetine – Tx of GAD
 MAOIs – (Phenelzine)reserved for treatment-resistant conditions (risk of life-threatening hypertensive crisis
related to dietary restrictions)

Question 2

 Benzodiazepines

Answer 2

 Benzodiazepines
 Quick onset (good for panic attacks)
 Risk for dependence – short term use until other meds reach therapeutic range,
 SE – sedation, ataxia, cognitive impairment Paradoxical reactions (opposite of expected
outcome)
 Not recommended for elderly – falls, delirium, and fractures

Question 3

Buspirone

Answer 3

 Buspar
 No dependency risk
 2-4 weeks for full effects
 SE – HA, dizziness, nausea, nervousness, light headedness, excitement
 Not recommended for those with impaired renal or hepatic function
 Beta blockers, antihistamine, anticonvulsants