Adverse Effects and Monitoring of Psychotropic Medications

Benzodiazepines

Sedatives ending in 'pam', e.g., diazepam.

CNS Depression

Symptoms include lethargy, drowsiness, and dizziness.

Amnesia

Memory loss, especially with alcohol use.

Paradoxical Effects

Opposite reactions, common in older adults.

Respiratory Depression

Reduced breathing rate; monitor vital signs.

Acute Toxicity

Symptoms include drowsiness and confusion.

Flumazenil

Antidote for benzodiazepine overdose.

Buspirone

Nonbenzodiazepine anxiolytic; no dependence risk.

Grapefruit Juice

Increases drug levels, causing drowsiness.

SSRIs

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for depression.

Serotonin Syndrome

Potentially life-threatening; symptoms include agitation.

SNRIs

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors; e.g., venlafaxine.

Tricyclics

Older antidepressants; e.g., amitriptyline.

MAOIs

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors; risk of hypertensive crisis.

Tyramine

Aged foods causing hypertensive crisis with MAOIs.

Atypical Antidepressants

Different mechanisms; e.g., bupropion.

Lithium

Mood stabilizer; monitor sodium and fluid intake.

Lithium Toxicity Symptoms

Include nausea, tremors, seizures, and confusion.

Chlorpromazine

Antipsychotic; monitor for pseudoparkinsonism.

Akathisia

Restlessness and constant motion.

Tardive Dyskinesia

Involuntary muscle spasms; serious side effect.

Risperidone

Fewer EPS effects compared to chlorpromazine.

Hyperlipidemia

Elevated cholesterol; monitor levels regularly.

Weight Gain

Common side effect; monitor diet and weight.

Diabetes Monitoring

Baseline fasting glucose; report symptoms.