pharmacotherapy

Question 1

What are the three main types of neural connections?

Answer 1

GABAergic (inhibitory), glutamatergic, and monoaminergic (modulatory)

Question 2

Describe the serotonin pathway synthesis

Answer 2

Tryptophan → 5-HTP (via tryptophan hydroxylase) → 5-HT (via aromatic acid decarboxylase)

Question 2

Why is understanding PTSD psychopharmacology important? - 3 reasons

Answer 2

1) Often co-occurs with substance use disorders and depression
2) Psychotherapies aren’t effective/suitable for everyone
3) Long wait times for psychotherapy

Question 3

What is the evidence for hydrocortisone in PTSD prevention?

Answer 3

Meta-analyses show it’s superior to placebo for preventing and reducing PTSD symptoms, typically given 6-12 hours post-trauma (20-140mg)

Question 4

How does stress affect the hippocampus?

Answer 4

Stress hormones reshape neurons, affecting cognition, mood, memory processing, and stress-related neuronal adaptation

Question 5

What are the effects of repeated stress on the amygdala and prefrontal cortex?

Answer 5

Causes shortening in medial PFC and growth in amygdala

Question 6

Are medications effective for PTSD according to research?

Answer 6

Yes, medicines are effective in reducing PTSD symptoms (Cipriani et al. 2018)⁠

Question 7

Are medications effective for Complex PTSD (CPTSD)?

Answer 7

Yes, medicines are effective in reducing CPTSD symptoms⁠

Question 8

What is prazosin used for in PTSD and is it effective?

Answer 8

Used for nightmares; meta-analyses show it’s superior to placebo for improving PTSD symptoms, sleep, and reducing nightmares