Pharmacological Treatments for Depression and Anxiety

These flashcards cover key concepts related to pharmacological treatments for depression and anxiety, including drug classes, mechanisms of action, indications, and side effects.

What are MAOIs primarily used to treat?

Depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.

Name a medication that is categorized as an SNRI.

Venlafaxine (Effexor) or Duloxetine (Cymbalta).

What is the mechanism of action of SNRIs?

They block the reuptake of norepinephrine (NE) and serotonin (5-HT), with weak blockade of dopamine reuptake.

What are some side effects of TCA's?

Nausea, headache, insomnia, nervousness, sweating, somnolence, and anticholinergic effects.

Give an example of a TCA used to treat depression.

Amitriptyline or Clomipramine.

What condition is duloxetine specifically indicated for?

Chronic pain and depression.

What are common side effects of SSRIs/SNRIs?

Sexual dysfunction, nausea, and insomnia.

What does MAOI stand for?

Monoamine oxidase inhibitor.

What are anticholinergic effects?

Side effects including dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation.

What is a critical warning for patients taking MAOIs?

Increased risk for serotonin syndrome (SS) and intense withdrawal symptoms.

What should patients be taught about when changing positions while on antidepressants?

To get up slowly from sitting to standing.

What type of receptors do TCA's block besides 5-HT and NE?

Histamine, acetylcholine, and alpha adrenergic 1 receptors.

List two withdrawal symptoms that can occur with MAOIs.

Anxiety and headache.

What type of medication is Imipramine?

It is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA).

What is a potential risk when using antidepressants?

Increased risk for suicide.