Mental Health Medications Cheat Sheet

Flashcards covering key mental health medications, their uses, side effects, and important nursing considerations (NCLEX tips) from the lecture notes.

What are common side effects of TCAs like Amitriptyline and Doxepin?

Anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention), orthostatic hypotension, and seizure risk.

What is a critical NCLEX consideration for patients starting TCA treatment?

Monitor for increased suicide risk early in treatment and advise slow position changes due to orthostatic hypotension.

What are major side effects of SSRIs such as Fluoxetine or Sertraline?

Sexual dysfunction, insomnia, weight gain, increased suicidal ideation risk, and serotonin syndrome.

How long does it typically take for SSRIs to show their full therapeutic effect, and what is a key instruction for discontinuation?

It takes 4-6 weeks for full effect. Patients should not stop them abruptly.

What are some indications for SNRIs like Duloxetine and Venlafaxine?

Depression, anxiety, and neuropathic pain.

What is an important nursing consideration regarding discontinuing SNRIs?

They should be tapered slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

What severe adverse effect is associated with MAOI use, and what foods should be avoided?

Hypertensive crisis, triggered by tyramine-rich foods (e.g., aged cheese, wine, cured meats).

What drug combinations are contraindicated with MAOIs?

Do not combine with SSRIs, TCAs, or over-the-counter cold medications.

What is the therapeutic use of Lithium, and what are its common side effects?

Used for bipolar disorder (mania/depression); common side effects include tremor, GI upset, weight gain, and polyuria.

At what blood level does Lithium become toxic, and what nursing interventions are crucial?

Toxic at levels >1.5 mEq/L. Patients must maintain adequate fluids and salt intake, and avoid NSAIDs, diuretics, and caffeine.

What is a serious adverse effect of Lamotrigine, a mood stabilizer?

Rash, potentially Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.

What are key adverse effects of Valproic acid, and what monitoring is required?

Hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, and thrombocytopenia. Liver function tests (LFTs) and complete blood counts (CBC) should be monitored.

What are common side effects of typical antipsychotics like Haloperidol, and how are EPS treated?

Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), including dystonia, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia. EPS can be treated with benztropine or diphenhydramine.

What is a major risk associated with Clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic?

Agranulocytosis, requiring weekly WBC monitoring.

What are general side effects of atypical antipsychotics such as Olanzapine and Risperidone?

Weight gain, metabolic syndrome, and sedation.

What are the primary uses and potential risks of Benzodiazepines like Lorazepam and Alprazolam?

Used for anxiety, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal. Risks include sedation, respiratory depression, dependence, and withdrawal seizures if stopped suddenly.

What is a crucial nursing instruction for patients prescribed Benzodiazepines?

They should only be used short-term and tapered off slowly.

What are the benefits of Buspirone for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) compared to Benzodiazepines?

It has no dependence/withdrawal risk and is not sedating, although it takes several weeks for its full effect.

For what conditions is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) typically used?

Severe depression, suicidal patients, and bipolar disorder.

What are essential pre-operative and post-operative nursing considerations for a patient undergoing ECT?

Pre-operatively: ensure NPO, consent, administer atropine. Post-operatively: monitor vital signs and airway; temporary memory loss, headache, and muscle aches are common side effects.