Psychiatric and Neurological Medications: High-Yield Exam Points

A collection of high-yield vocabulary flashcards summarizing key psychiatric and neurological medications along with their most important exam points.

Fluoxetine (Prozac)

SSRI, increases serotonin

Uses: Depression, anxiety, OCD

Venlafaxine (Effexor)

SNRI, can increase BP

Uses: Depression, anxiety

Amitriptyline (Evail)

TCA, cardiac and anticholinergic effects (slows body functions)

Uses: depression

Phenelzine (Nardil)

MAOI, avoid tyramine, can cause hypertensive crisis

Uses: depression

Lithium

Monitor levels, sodium, hydration

Uses: Mood stabilizer, bipolar disorder

Lorazepam (Ativan)

Benzodiazepine, respiratory depression, slows brain activity

Uses:anxiety, seizures, sedation

Phenobarbital

Barbiturate, respiratory depression, stronger CNS depressant

Uses: seizures

Haloperidol (Haldol)

Typical antipsychotic, EPS/NMS, blocks dopamine receptors

Uses: reduce symptoms of psychosis

Ziprasidone (Geodon)

Atypical antipsychotic, QT prolongation (dangerous heart rhythms)

Adderall

CNS stimulant, increased HR/BP

Uses: ADHD

Serotonin

Helps regulate mood, anxiety, and sleep

Norepinephrine

Increases alertness, HR, and BP

Dopamine

Helps control movement, motivation, and reward

GABA

Slows down brain activity and helps you relax