Neurobiology
Chemical messengers that act as communication agents between different brain cells. The brain contains several hundred different types
What is a neurotransmitter
Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin into the nerve endings, which increases the levels of serotonin, relieving symptoms of depression.
What is SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
A common side effect of SSRI's that can be relieved by drinking more water, chewing gum, or sucking on hard candy
What is dry mouth
Adderall, a stimulant medication is used to treat this psychiatric disorder
What is ADHD
Stimulants can cause this vital sign to increase. It can feel like palpitations or fluttering in the chest
What is heart rate
A chemical messenger that plays a role in modulating anxiety, mood, sleep, appetite, and sexuality
What is Serotonin
This class of drug works on the histamine receptors and is most commonly used to treat allergic reactions. It can also be used to treat anxiety and help with sleep. Benadryl and Hydroxyzine are examples.
What is antihistamines
Because of this side effect, individuals who are starting a new medication are advised not to drive or operate dangerous machinery. This side effect is mainly associated with benzodiazepines
What is drowsiness, confusion, or lethargy
Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, and Effexor are medications used to treat this common mood disorder
What is depression
Because some medications can cause these numbers to increase (hypertension) or decrease (hypotension), it is important that this vital sign is checked
What is blood pressure
A chemical messenger that influences body movement and is also believed to be involved in motivation, reward, reinforcement, and addictive behaviors
Dopamine
Blocks dopamine receptors in the brain, resulting in decreased symptoms of psychosis
What is antipsychotics
Taking medications with food may help decrease this uncomfortable side effect
What is nausea or upset stomach
Symptoms associated with this disorder (nervousness, restlessness, tension, etc.) are relieved by medications like Ativan, Valium, or Buspar
What is anxiety disorders
Because some illegal substances can affect the way medications work, doctors commonly order what test
What is Urine Drug Screen or Utox
A chemical messenger that acts through a negative feedback system to block the transmission of a signal from one cell to another. It is important for balancing the excitation in the brain
What is GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)
These medications increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the central nervous system resulting in relief of ADHD symptoms
What is stimulants
What is the name of the rare side effect, characterized by bizarre facial and tongue movements, and uncontrollable muscle movements that is associated with the use of antipsychotics?
What is Tardive Dyskinesia
Symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and odd behaviors are associated with this disorder and are treated with anti-psychotics
What is Schizophrenia
Because some medications cause increased or decreased appetite, it is important monitor this number for changes indicating imbalanced nutrition
What is weight
A chemical messenger that influences sleep and alertness, is believed to be correlated to the fight of flight stress response
What is norepinephrine
Increases GABA, resulting in a relief of anxiety
What is benzodiazpaines
This side effect is very rare, but resulted in the FDA issuing a black box warning on the use of SSRIs due to it's danger
What is suicidal ideation
A disorder characterized by mood swings from severe depression to euphoria (mania) that is treated with Lithium, a mood stabilizer.
What is Bipolar disorder
Doctors often recommend/prescribe this supplement following a blood draw. Minnesotans commonly have low levels, especially in winter months, which can affect mood
What is Vitamin D