Atypical Anti Depressants Flashcards
(21 cards)
What defines an “atypical” antidepressant?
Antidepressants that don’t fit into the SSRI, SNRI, TCA, or MAOI categories and have unique mechanisms of action.
What is the brand name of bupropion?
Wellbutrin (also marketed as Zyban for smoking cessation)
Zyban is used for smoking cessation.
What is the generic name of Wellbutrin?
Bupropion
What is the mechanism of action of bupropion?
Inhibits reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine (NDRI)
What are the key benefits of bupropion (Wellbutrin)?
No sexual side effects, may promote weight loss, helps with smoking cessation.
What is a major contraindication to bupropion?
Seizure disorder or history of eating disorders (e.g., bulimia/anorexia)
Eating disorders include bulimia and anorexia.
What’s a common activating side effect of bupropion?
Insomnia, agitation, anxiety
What is the brand name of mirtazapine?
Remeron
What is the generic name of Remeron?
Mirtazapine
What is the mechanism of action of mirtazapine?
Enhances noradrenergic and serotonergic activity by blocking alpha-2 receptors and 5-HT2/3
What are two main side effects of mirtazapine?
Weight gain and sedation
When is mirtazapine especially useful?
In depressed patients with insomnia or weight loss.
What is the brand name of trazodone?
Desyrel (or Oleptro)
What is the generic name of Desyrel?
Trazodone
What is the mechanism of action of trazodone?
Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI)
What is trazodone mostly used for at low doses?
Insomnia
What are common side effects of trazodone?
Sedation, dizziness, orthostatic hypotension
What rare but serious side effect is associated with trazodone?
Priapism (prolonged, painful erection)
Which atypical antidepressant is activating and good for energy?
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Which atypical antidepressant causes the most sedation and weight gain?
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Which atypical antidepressant helps with sleep but may cause priapism?
Trazodone (Desyrel)
