Psych Meds 101
A medication is prescribed as PRN, what does this mean?
PRN is Latin for “pro re nata” which means take as needed
Sertraline (Zoloft)
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Citalopram
Antidepressants—specifically a class called SSRIs
Bonus point! Can anyone tell us what SSRI stands for?
Lithium is a mood stabilizer frequently used to treat this…
Bipolar disorder
All psych medications work immediately after the first dose
False!
Should you take a prescription medication that was prescribed to someone else?
NO!
How long does it take to feel the full effects of an antidepressant
Approximately 4-6 weeks, but could vary by person
Mood stabilizer
What do antidepressants drugs such as SSRIs treat?
Depression
Anxiety
PTSD
OCD
Bulimia/anorexia
It is safe to stop your medication suddenly as long as you feel better
False
Why should you always tell your doctor if you are having side effects from a medication?
So they can adjust your treatment and prevent unwanted side effects or damage to your health
What is the difference between a medication’s desired effect vs a side effect?
Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
Antipsychotic
Abilify (aripriprazole) (hint: category is antipsychotic)
irritability
anxiety
Severe mood changes
intrusive thoughts
paranoia
suicidal ideation
Hallucinations
A medication can be prescribed to treat something that it was not originally made to treat
True, this is sometimes called “off-label“ prescribing
ex:
Why shouldn’t you crush or chew a medication unless you’ve been told that its okay
Some medications were made to be released slowly over time, crushing them can change how the medication works
Why would a doctor start someone a low dose and increase is gradually?
To see how they respond and to help manage potential side effects.
Some medications may need to be increased slowly for safety. It is always best to be on the lowest effective dose of a medication.
Abilify
Risperdal
Haloperidol
Antipsychotics
Trazodone
Benadryl
Melatonin
are all used for?
Insomnia! (Sleep)
Two people taking the same medication may require different doses to reach the same effect
True
What are two signs of an allergic reaction to a medication
Swelling of the lips
Hives / itching
Rash
Peeling skin
Trouble breathing
Who prescribes your psych medications your therapist or your psychiatrist?
Your psychiatrist!
Midazolam
Lorazepam (Ativan)
Alprazolam (Xanax)
Benzodiazepines (used for anxiety, sleep, and seizures)
Clonidine
Guanfacine
Ritalin
Concerta
ADHD medications
All medications should be taken with food
False
Some medications need food to be absorbed while others are better absorbed on an empty stomach. It is important to know how your medications should be taken.
When taking lithium, it is important to do this…
Drink water