Set 1: Calm, Mood, and Sleep Drugs

Buspirone

Nonbenzodiazepine anxiolytic for chronic anxiety; delayed effect and low abuse potential

Hydroxyzine

Antihistamine anxiolytic; histamine blockade causes drowsiness

Beta blockers

Reduce physical performance anxiety such as tremor and tachycardia

Benzodiazepines

Enhance GABA inhibition; rapid anxiety relief with dependence and respiratory risks

SSRIs

First line for anxiety and depression; increase serotonin by blocking reuptake

SNRIs

Increase serotonin and norepinephrine; monitor for increased blood pressure

TCAs

Older antidepressants with anticholinergic effects and dangerous cardiac overdose

MAOIs

Prevent monoamine breakdown; tyramine can cause hypertensive crisis

Bupropion (Wellbutrin)

NDRI used for depression and as a nonstimulant ADHD option; increases seizure risk

Lithium

Mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder; narrow therapeutic range and renal elimination

Carbamazepine

Anticonvulsant mood stabilizer; monitor CBC, liver function, sodium, and interactions

Valproic acid (Depakote)

Anticonvulsant mood stabilizer; monitor level, liver function, CBC, and platelets

Lamotrigine (Lamictal)

Anticonvulsant mood stabilizer; new rash requires urgent evaluation

Topiramate (Topamax)

Anticonvulsant mood stabilizer associated with weight loss and contraceptive interaction

Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal)

Anticonvulsant mood stabilizer with risk for hyponatremia

Ramelteon

Melatonin receptor agonist for sleep onset with low abuse potential

Temazepam

Benzodiazepine hypnotic with sedation and dependence risk

Eszopiclone (Lunesta)

Nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic used short term for insomnia

Zolpidem (Ambien)

Nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic associated with complex sleep behaviors

Anticonvulsant mood stabilizers

Carbamazepine, valproic acid, lamotrigine, topiramate, and oxcarbazepine