Biologic Therapies and Psychopharmacology Overview

Flashcards created based on the comprehensive notes on biologic therapies and psychopharmacology to aid in exam preparation.

What is psychopharmacology?

The use of medications as a treatment for mental disorders.

What notable drug was introduced as a significant therapeutic breakthrough for psychosis?

Chlorpromazine (Thorazine) was approved by the FDA in 1954.

What are the 21 subsections in the new biologic therapies section focused on?

Pharmacologic domains (e.g., neurotransmitters) and modes of action (e.g., antagonists, reuptake inhibitors).

How are traditional antidepressants classified in the new biologic therapies section?

They are now classified as 'monoamine enhancers'.

What is a common concern regarding the field of psychopharmacology in recent years?

There is concern that psychopharmacology has stalled and new drug development is lagging.

What are two new medications introduced for treatment-resistant conditions?

Esketamine for treatment-resistant depression and lumateperone for schizophrenia.

What are the mechanisms through which most psychiatric drugs act?

They mimic, block, or modify the actions of neurotransmitters by binding to their receptors.

What are the two basic mechanisms for studying receptors?

Measuring the binding of a ligand and assessing the physiological consequences of agonist binding.

What class of receptors includes ionotropic and metabotropic receptors?

Neurotransmitter receptors relevant to psychotropic drugs.

What recent classification system aims to replace the traditional disease-based terminology in psychopharmacology?

The Neuroscience-based Nomenclature (NbN).

What is the focus of the NbN system?

It classifies medications based on their pharmacologic properties instead of disease indications.

What is the pharmacology domain in the NbN?

It includes 10 domains that describe the neurotransmitter, molecule, or system affected by the medication.

In the context of pharmacologic treatment, what is the purpose of the 'approved indications dimension'?

To state which indications are officially approved by major regulatory bodies.

What significant role does GTP play in G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling?

GTP binding leads to the activation of the G protein, influencing signaling pathways.

What are some of the safety concerns associated with many psychotropic medications?

Adverse effects such as increased risk of suicidality, metabolic syndrome, and cardiac conduction issues.

What did the STAR*D trial focus on?

It was a large study evaluating treatment effectiveness in a real-world sample of depressed outpatients.

Why is there increased caution when prescribing medications to elderly patients?

They may be more susceptible to side effects and typically require lower doses.

What are the challenges in translating research findings into clinical practice for psychotropic drugs?

An incomplete understanding of CNS pathophysiology and heterogeneity in patient responses.

What effect did the FDA's black box warning about suicidality have on antidepressant prescriptions?

Prescribing rates decreased while suicide rates reportedly increased.

Why is research on pharmacogenetics important in psychopharmacology?

It aims to identify genetic factors influencing drug metabolism and treatment response.