anti depressants and mood stablizer drugs

What is the mechanism of action of Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)?

They block the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin.

What major side effect profile is associated with TCAs?

Anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, constipation)

What serious cardiac adverse effect is associated with TCAs?

Cardiotoxicity and dysrhythmias.

What is the mechanism of action of SSRIs?

They selectively block serotonin reuptake.

What common side effects occur with SSRIs?

Headache, insomnia, GI distress, dry mouth, and sexual dysfunction.

What is the mechanism of action of SNRIs?

They inhibit the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine.

What disorders are commonly treated with SNRIs?

Major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety disorder.

What serious adverse effects may occur with SNRIs?

Hypertension, seizures, neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), and suicidal ideation.

What neurotransmitters are affected by atypical antidepressants?

Serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

What is the mechanism of action of MAOIs

They inhibit monoamine oxidase, preventing the breakdown of serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, and epinephrine.

When are MAOIs typically used?

Depression that has not responded to TCAs or second-generation antidepressants.

What life-threatening reaction can occur when MAOIs are combined with tyramine-containing foods?

Hypertensive crisis.

Name three foods commonly tested that should be avoided while taking MAOIs.

Aged cheeses, red wine, and yogurt.

What is the therapeutic serum lithium range?

0.8–1.2 mEq/L.

At what serum lithium level does toxicity become a concern?

Greater than 1.5 mEq/L.

What is the primary use of lithium?

Bipolar disorder and manic episodes.

What two key teaching points should patients taking lithium remember?

Avoid caffeine and maintain adequate sodium intake.

A patient with reactive depression is prescribed fluoxetine. What important teaching should the nurse provide regarding this medication?

Fluoxetine is an SSRI that works by blocking serotonin reuptake. Common side effects include headache, insomnia, GI distress, and sexual dysfunction. Patients should avoid grapefruit juice due to toxicity risk, monitor for suicidal ideation, and understand that therapeutic effects may take several weeks to become noticeable.

A patient taking amitriptyline reports dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and urinary retention. What is the nurse's interpretation?

Amitriptyline commonly causes anticholinergic effects because it blocks cholinergic receptors.

What serious adverse effect makes TCAs such as amitriptyline dangerous in overdose?

Cardiotoxicity and dysrhythmias.

What common side effects should a patient taking fluoxetine expect?

Headache, insomnia, GI distress, and sexual dysfunction.Headache, insomnia, GI distress, and sexual dysfunction.