Medications Flashcards
(40 cards)
What does SSRI stand for?
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor
SSRIs are commonly prescribed antidepressants.
Name three SSRIs.
- Prozac (Fluoxetine)
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Lexapro (Escitalopram)
These are among the most commonly prescribed SSRIs.
What is the typical time frame for SSRIs to show effects?
2-4 weeks
This is the usual duration before effects can be felt.
What does NDRI stand for?
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor
NDRIs are another class of antidepressants.
Name a common NDRI.
Wellbutrin (Bupropion)
Other brand names include Zyban and Aplenzin.
What additional use does Bupropion have?
Smoking cessation aid
Bupropion is also used to help individuals quit smoking.
Why are MAOIs prescribed less often now?
Due to dietary restrictions and potential dangerous side effects
Foods high in tyramine can cause dangerous spikes in blood pressure.
What is serotonin syndrome?
A condition where levels of serotonin are dangerously high
This can occur when taking multiple medications that raise serotonin.
When might an MAOI or Tricyclic be prescribed?
For treatment-resistant depression
They are generally not first-line treatments.
List some possible side effects of SSRIs.
- Nausea and gastrointestinal issues
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Nervousness/agitation
- Decrease in sexual desire
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Changes in appetite
- Weight gain
These side effects can vary in severity among individuals.
True or False: SSRIs may increase the risk of suicidal ideation in individuals under 25.
True
This is a significant concern when prescribing SSRIs to younger populations.
What class of drugs do Valium, Xanax, Ativan, and Klonopin belong to?
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are the most commonly prescribed class of drugs to treat anxiety disorders.
What should not be mixed with Benzodiazepines due to increased effects and side effects?
Alcohol
Mixing Benzodiazepines with alcohol can worsen the side effects of both.
List three possible side effects of Benzodiazepines.
- Drowsiness
- Muscle weakness
- Slurred speech
Additional side effects can include light-headedness, unsteadiness, motor incoordination, or memory issues.
What medication is commonly used for mood disorders?
Lithium
Other medications for mood disorders include Depakote, Lamictal, and Abilify.
What is Abilify used for?
An add-on treatment for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, or Schizophrenia
It is used in conjunction with another medication when that drug alone is not sufficient.
List two possible side effects of Abilify.
- Headaches
- Tremors
Additional side effects can include nausea, diarrhea, irritability, agitation, difficulty sleeping, drowsiness, dizziness, or weight gain.
What serious side effect is associated with Lamotrigine?
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
This syndrome causes flu-like symptoms followed by a red or purple rash that can spread and form blisters.
What should a client do if they develop a rash while taking Lamotrigine?
Contact their doctor immediately
This is crucial to address the potential serious side effect of Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Fill in the blank: Benzodiazepines should not be mixed with _______.
Alcohol
What are common medications used to treat ADHD?
Ritalin/Concerta (Methylphenidate), Adderall (Amphetamine), Dexedrine (Dextroamphetamine)
These medications are stimulants commonly prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
What are possible side effects of ADHD medications?
Loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach ache, headache, trouble sleeping, jitteriness, irritability, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure
These side effects can vary in intensity and occurrence among individuals.
Fill in the blank: One of the medications for ADHD is _______.
Ritalin/Concerta (Methylphenidate)
True or False: Dexedrine is an amphetamine used in ADHD treatment.
True
