Antidepressants and Mood Stabilizers

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to antidepressants, mood stabilizers, their mechanisms, side effects, and interactions.

Depression Etiology

Factors causing depression including genetic predisposition and social/environmental influences.

Pathophysiology of Depression

Theories suggest decreased levels of monoamine neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine.

Major Depressive Disorder

A severe form of depression characterized by persistent depressed mood and loss of interest.

Suicidal Ideation

Thinking about, considering, or planning suicide, often associated with severe depression.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

A class of antidepressants that increase serotonin levels by blocking its reabsorption in the brain.

Fluoxetine

An SSRI used to treat major depression and anxiety disorders.

Duloxetine

A Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI) indicated for major depression and anxiety disorders.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)

A life-threatening condition caused by antipsychotic medications characterized by high fever and muscle rigidity.

Serotonin Syndrome

A potentially life-threatening condition caused by increased serotonin levels in the brain, characterized by various symptoms including tachycardia and hyperthermia.

Lithium

A mood stabilizer used primarily in bipolar disorder, with a narrow therapeutic window to avoid toxicity.

Trazodone

An atypical antidepressant that inhibits serotonin reuptake and is often used off-label for insomnia and chronic pain.

Adverse Reactions to Antidepressants

Negative effects of antidepressant medications, including suicidal ideation and various physiological disturbances.

Grapefruit Juice Interactions

Certain medications may interact adversely with grapefruit juice, altering drug efficacy and metabolism.

CNS Depressants

Substances that reduce brain activity, potentially worsening side effects when taken with antidepressants.

Orthostatic Hypotension

A drop in blood pressure upon standing, often a side effect of antidepressant medications.

Nephrotoxicity

Toxicity to the kidneys, which can be a serious side effect of certain medications, including lithium.