Psychopharmacology: SSRIs and Anxiolytics

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What are SSRIs primarily indicated for?

Psychosis

Schizophrenia

Anxiety and depression (correct)

Bipolar disorder

Which of the following is a common side effect of SSRIs?

Sexual dysfunction (correct)

Weight loss

Hallucinations

Increased energy

What is the mechanism of action for SSRIs?

Inhibits serotonin reuptake (correct)

Increases norepinephrine release

Enhances GABA activity

Inhibits dopamine reuptake

Which of the following medications is an SSRI?

Paroxetine Signup and view all the answers

What serious condition can occur with the use of SSRIs when combined with St.John's Wort?

Serotonin syndrome Signup and view all the answers

How long does it typically take for SSRIs to reach full effectiveness?

2 or more weeks Signup and view all the answers

Which side effect is NOT typically associated with SSRIs?

Sedation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary indication for buspirone?

Anxiety Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common side effect of buspirone?

Dizziness Signup and view all the answers

How should buspirone be taken to maintain absorption levels?

With food consistently Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action for tricyclic antidepressants?

Inhibits serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake Signup and view all the answers

Which side effect is commonly associated with TCAs?

Sedation Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is a tricyclic antidepressant?

Imipramine Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action for SNRIs?

Inhibits both serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored for patients taking SNRIs?

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome Signup and view all the answers

What is a risk associated with long-term use of benzodiazepines?

Dependency and withdrawal Signup and view all the answers

What is the antidote for benzodiazepine overdose?

Flumazenil Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following medications is most likely to have anticholinergic side effects?

Amitriptyline Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial action taken when a patient is suspected of having serotonin syndrome?

Discontinue the offending medication Signup and view all the answers

What are benzodiazepines primarily indicated for?

Anxiety and seizures Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Primary Indication: Anxiety and depression
Common Side Effect: Sexual dysfunction
Mechanism of Action: Inhibits serotonin reuptake
Example Medication: Paroxetine
Serious Interaction (with St. John's Wort): Serotonin syndrome
Time to Full Effectiveness: 2 or more weeks
Important Monitoring: Symptoms of serotonin syndrome
Untypical Side Effect: Sedation (not common)

Atypical Anxiolytic (Buspirone)

Primary Indication: Anxiety
Mechanism of Action: Binds to serotonin and dopamine receptors
Common Side Effect: Dizziness
Avoidance: Alcohol
Optimal Intake: With food for consistent absorption
Time to Full Effect: Several weeks

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

Indications: Anxiety, insomnia, neuropathy
Mechanism of Action: Inhibits serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake
Common Side Effect: Sedation
Anticholinergic Effects: Urinary retention
Serious Monitoring: Arrhythmias
Example Medication: Imipramine

Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

Primary Use: Depression, neuropathic pain
Mechanism of Action: Inhibits serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake
Example Medication: Venlafaxine
Common Side Effect: Constipation
Monitoring: Symptoms of serotonin syndrome

Benzodiazepines

Primary Indication: Anxiety, seizures
Mechanism of Action: Enhances GABA effect
Common Side Effect: Sedation
Long-Term Risk: Dependence and withdrawal
Antidote: Flumazenil
Discontinuation: Gradual
Serious Potential Side Effect: Respiratory depression

General Considerations

Sedating Medications: Amitriptyline
Buspirone Avoidance: Alcohol
SSRI Focus: Monitor for serotonin syndrome
VENLAFAXINE/DULOXETINE Class: SNRIs
Anticholinergic Effects: Amitriptyline
Serotonin Syndrome Symptom: Diaphoresis
Medication Class with Potential Dependence: Benzodiazepines
Serotonin Syndrome Management: Discontinue offending medication

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Explore the mechanisms, indications, and side effects of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), atypical anxiolytics like Buspirone, and Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs). This quiz focuses on essential pharmacological principles related to anxiety and depression treatments.