Pharmacology of Anxiety and Depression Flashcards
(29 cards)
What are the types of anxiety disorders?
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Obsessive-Compulsive disorder
- Posttraumatic stress syndrome
What are benzodiazepines used for?
They are used to decrease tension and nervousness in anxiety disorders.
What is a common benzodiazepine for anxiety?
Diazepam (Valium)
How does buspirone differ from benzodiazepines?
Buspirone has moderate effects, is slower to take effect (2-4 weeks), and has less risk of sedation and dependence.
What are beta-blockers used for in anxiety?
They decrease sympathetic nervous system activity and can reduce situational anxiety without sedation.
What are some adverse effects of anxiety medications?
Sedation, psychomotor impairment, rebound anxiety, addiction, and withdrawal concerns.
What is the impact of anxiety on pain management in rehab?
Increased anxiety can affect a patient’s tolerance to pain and treatment.
What are the characteristics of depression?
Intense feelings of sadness and despair, dysphoric mood, lack of interest in previously pleasurable activities.
What is the prevalence of depression in the US?
2.8% of adults have severe symptoms, 4.2% have moderate symptoms, 11.5% have mild symptoms.
What is the Receptor Sensitivity Theory for depression?
Depression may alter the sensitivity of receptors, and medications prolong amine neurotransmission to normalize receptor sensitivity.
What is the Neurogenesis Hypothesis for depression?
Depression is associated with decreased formation of new neurons and impaired brain connections, which medications may help restore.
How do SSRIs work?
They block the reuptake of serotonin, allowing it to exert its effects for longer, improving mood and reducing depression.
What are common SSRIs?
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
What are the adverse effects of SSRIs?
GI symptoms, less sedation and cardiovascular problems compared to other drugs, risk of serotonin syndrome.
How do SNRIs work?
They inhibit the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine without affecting dopamine.
What are common SNRIs?
- Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
- Vanlafaxine (Effexor)
- Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
What are the adverse effects of SNRIs?
Similar to SSRIs, including risk of serotonin syndrome.
How do tricyclic antidepressants work?
They block the reuptake of amine neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine) into the presynaptic terminal.
What are the adverse effects of tricyclic antidepressants?
Sedation, anticholinergic effects, cardiovascular risks, high risk of lethal overdose.
What is a common tricyclic antidepressant?
Amitriptyline
How do MAO inhibitors work?
They inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase, allowing more neurotransmitters to remain in the synaptic cleft.
What are the adverse effects of MAO inhibitors?
CNS excitation, avoid foods containing tyramine.
What is serotonin syndrome?
A potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive levels of serotonin, characterized by agitation, restlessness, shivering, increased heart rate, and neuromuscular hyperexcitability.
What is trazodone used for?
It blocks serotonin receptors and inhibits serotonin reuptake, also used to treat anxiety, chronic pain, sexual dysfunction, and eating disorders.
