SSRIs and Benzodiazepines

SSRIs MOA

SSRIs function by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, which raises serotonin levels in the synaptic cleft (the space between nerve cells), thereby improving mood and emotional stability.;

Common Suffix for SSRIs

-tine, -pram;

Indication for SSRIs

Depression, anxiety.;

SSRI side effects: BAD SSRI

B: body weight increase

A: anxiety

D: dizziness

S: serotonin syndrome

S: stimulated CNS "mania."

R: reproductive (sexual) dysfunction

I: insomnia;

SSRI black box warning

All SSRIs include a black box warning because they can lead to suicidal thoughts, suicide, and aggressive behavior. This warning applies to individuals aged 6-24.

What is a black box warning?

A black box warning is the FDA's strongest safety warning for a prescription drug. It's printed in bold type in a black border at the top of the package insert.

What does the warning say?

The warning for SSRIs includes information about the increased risk of: Suicidal thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults The need to continually assess patients under 25 for suicidal ideation and other unusual behaviors

When did the warning come into effect?

The FDA first issued a black box warning for SSRIs in 2004. In 2007, the warning was expanded to include information about young adults ages 18 to 24.

The FDA can apply a black box warning to a drug at any time, including after it's been approved. The FDA may also recall a drug from the market if the risks are severe enough.;

Zoloft

Sertraline

Indication: Depression

Classification: SSRI (Selective Serotonin Receptor Inhibitor);

Prozac

Fluoxetine

Indication: Depression

Classification: SSRI (Selective Serotonin Receptor Inhibitor);

Lexapro

Escitalopram

Indication: Depression

Classification: SSRI (Selective Serotonin Receptor Inhibitor);

Celexa

citalopram

Indication: Depression

Classification: SSRI (Selective Serotonin Receptor Inhibitor);

Paxil

Paroxetine

Indication: Depression

Classification: SSRI (Selective Serotonin Receptor Inhibitor);

Benzodiazepines MOA

Facilitate GABAa action by increasing the frequency of chloride channel opening;

Common Suffix for Benzodiazepines

-pam, -lam;

Indication for Benzodiazepines

Anxiety, seizures, insomnia.;

Benzodiazepines adverse effects

-drowsiness

-decrease REM sleep

-dizziness

-lethargy

-memory impairment

-tolerance develops within weeks

-Withdrawal from dependence can be dangerous. Must "ween" or taper dose.

-can cause paranoia, panic attacks, muscle twitching, and hallucinations;

Xanax

Alprazolam

Indication: Anxiety

Schedule: C-IV;

Valium

Diazepam

Indication: Anxiety, Seizures

Schedule: C-IV.;

Ativan

Lorazepam

Indication: Anxiety, Seizures,

Schedule: C-IV.;

Klonopin

Clonazepam,

Indication: Anxiety, Seizures,

Schedule: C-IV.;

Restoril

Temazepam

Indication: Insomnia,

Schedule: C-IV.;

SIG

Directions on prescription for patients.;

STAT

immediately, at once;

QS

quantity sufficient. as much as needed;

IU

International Unit or intrauterine;

What does ASA stand for in medication abbreviations?

Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin)

Analgesic (pain relief)

NSAID (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories) ;

What does APAP stand for in medication abbreviations?

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

NSAID (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory)

Analgesic (pain relief);

What does NTG stand for in medication abbreviations?

Nitroglycerin (Nitrostat)

It must be dispensed in the stock container (A glass, amber-colored bottle).

Does not require a safety cap.

Used to treat acute (sudden) angina (chest pain) symptoms.

Taken sublingually (underneath the tongue).;

What does MS stand for in medication abbreviations?

Morphine Sulfate (MS Contin)

Classification: Opiate

Indication: Analgesic (pain relief)

Schedule: C-II;

What does HCTZ stand for in medication abbreviations?

Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide);

What does MTX stand for in medication abbreviations?

Methotrexate (Rheumatrex, Trexall)

Antimetabolite antineoplastic (anticancer) agent

Indications: Certain cancers like non-Hodgkins lymphoma and leukemia. Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.;

What does AZT stand for in medication abbreviations?

Zidovudine (Retrovir)

Antiviral (HIV)

HIV nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor;

What does TMP-SMX stand for in medication abbreviations?

Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole (Septra, Bactrim DS)

Classification: Sulfonamide Antibiotic

Used in Urinary Tract Infections;