Atypical Anti Depressants Flashcards
(14 cards)
What are Atypical Antidepressants?
Antidepressants that don’t fit into SSRI, SNRI, TCA, or MAOI categories and have unique mechanisms and side effect profiles.
Each atypical antidepressant has its own specific effects and uses.
Name a common Atypical Antidepressant and its brand name.
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Bupropion is known for increasing dopamine and norepinephrine without affecting serotonin.
What is the primary effect of Bupropion (Wellbutrin)?
↑ Dopamine & NE (no serotonin)
This unique action differentiates it from many other antidepressants.
What are the key points about Trazodone (Desyrel)?
Sedating, helps with sleep, rare priapism
Trazodone is often used for its sedative effects.
What is Mirtazapine (Remeron) known for?
Great for weight gain, sleep, appetite
Mirtazapine is often prescribed for patients needing help with sleep and appetite.
What is the mechanism of action for Vilazodone (Viibryd)?
SSRI + 5HT1A partial agonist
This combination enhances its antidepressant effects.
What does Vortioxetine (Trintellix) offer in addition to being an SSRI?
Cognitive boost (good for elderly)
Vortioxetine is particularly beneficial for cognitive function in older adults.
Does Wellbutrin (bupropion) cause seizures?
Yes, it can.
Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold, increasing the risk for certain individuals.
What are high-risk situations for seizures on Bupropion?
- Eating disorders (e.g., bulimia, anorexia)
- History of seizures
- Alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal
- High doses (especially over 450 mg/day)
- Taking IR (immediate release) version instead of XL or SR
These factors significantly elevate seizure risk in patients taking bupropion.
What mnemonic helps remember the seizure risk associated with Wellbutrin?
WellBUTRIN = BUT Risk INcreased for seizures
This mnemonic is a helpful reminder of the seizure risks.
Why do people still like bupropion?
Weight-neutral, activating (gives energy), low sexual side effects
These benefits make it a preferable alternative for patients who struggle with SSRIs.
Compare the sleep effects of Bupropion and Mirtazapine.
Bupropion: 🚀 Stimulating; Mirtazapine: 😴 Sedating
This comparison highlights their differing effects on sleep.
What is the weight effect of Trazodone?
Neutral
Trazodone does not significantly affect weight.
True or False: Bupropion has a high risk of sexual side effects.
False
Bupropion is known for having low sexual side effects.
