Antipsychotics
This term describes the movement-related side effects, such as tremors and rigidity, that can occur with first-generation antipsychotics.
What are extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)?
This class of antidepressants includes venlafaxine, sertraline, and paroxetine.
What are SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)?
This medication is the gold standard for the treatment of bipolar disorder.
What is lithium?
This class of medications includes alprazolam, lorazepam, and diazepam.
What are benzodiazepines?
This stimulant medication is commonly used to treat ADHD.
What is methylphenidate (Ritalin)?
Clozapine is effective but requires routine blood monitoring for this potentially dangerous side effect.
What is agranulocytosis?
Patients taking MAOIs must avoid foods containing this substance to prevent hypertensive crisis.
What is tyramine?
This lab value must be monitored regularly to avoid lithium toxicity.
What is serum lithium level (0.6–1.2 mEq/L)?
Buspirone is used to treat anxiety, but differs from benzodiazepines because it lacks this property.
What is sedation (or dependence potential)?
This amphetamine-based medication is available in both short- and long-acting forms.
What is Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine)?
This newer class of antipsychotics works on both dopamine and serotonin receptors.
What are atypical (second-generation) antipsychotics?
This antidepressant can also help with smoking cessation.
What is bupropion (Wellbutrin)?
Valproic acid and carbamazepine are examples of this type of mood stabilizer.
What are anticonvulsants?
Benzodiazepines act on this neurotransmitter to produce a calming effect.
What is GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)?
Stimulants increase the levels of these two neurotransmitters in the brain.
What are dopamine and norepinephrine?
This long-acting injectable antipsychotic is often given every 2 to 4 weeks to improve medication adherence.
What is haloperidol decanoate?
Common symptoms of this medication side effect are hyperactive bowel sounds, clonus, diaphoresis, and hypertension.
What is Serotonin Syndrome?
Signs of lithium toxicity include tremor, confusion, and this common GI symptom.
What is vomiting (or nausea/diarrhea)?
This medication is often used short-term for anxiety, but can cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
What is a benzodiazepine?
A common side effect of stimulant medications is this, which can affect a child’s growth.
What is appetite suppression (or weight loss)?
This serious side effect is characterized by high fever, muscle rigidity, and altered mental status.
What is neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)?
This class of antidepressants is most lethal in overdose due to cardiac toxicity.
What are tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)?
The use of Lithium would not be recommended for a client who also has this condition.
What is Renal Disease?
Benzodiazepines have the potential to cause heightened anxiety, excitability, and nervousness.
What is a paradoxical reaction?
Stimulants are contraindicated for clients with these comorbidities. (Name two)
What are severe anxiety, cardiac disease, seizure disorder, tics, glaucoma, or alcohol misuse?