Neurobiology
This is the specific name for a brain cell
neuron
Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin into the nerve endings, which increases the levels of serotonin, relieving symptoms of depression.
SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
Drinking more water can reduce severity of these side effects
headaches and lightheadedness
Adderall, a stimulant medication is used to treat this psychiatric disorder
ADHD
Stimulants can cause this vital sign to increase. It can feel like palpitations or fluttering in the chest
heart rate
Chemical messengers that act as communication agents between different brain cells. The brain contains several hundred different types
neurotransmitters
This class of drug works on the histamine receptors and commonly treat allergies. It can also be used to treat anxiety and help with sleep. Benadryl and hydroxyzine are examples.
antihistamines
Because of this side effect, individuals who are starting a new medication are advised not to drive or operate dangerous machinery.
drowsiness, confusion, or lethargy
Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, and Effexor are medications used to treat this common mood disorder
depression
Because some medications can cause these numbers to increase (hypertension) or decrease (hypotension), it is important that this vital sign is checked
blood pressure
This area of the brain is last to develop. It is in charge of planning, decision making, and personality. Many psych meds work in this area.
prefrontal cortex
Blocks dopamine receptors in the brain, resulting in decreased symptoms of psychosis
antipsychotics
Taking medications with food may help decrease this uncomfortable side effect
nausea or upset stomach
Symptoms associated with this disorder (nervousness, restlessness, tension, etc.) are relieved by medications like hydroxyzine, gabapentin, or BuSpar
anxiety disorders
Because some illegal substances can affect the way medications work, doctors commonly order what test
Urine Drug Screen or Utox
A chemical messenger that plays a role in modulating anxiety, mood, sleep, and appetite
serotonin
These medications increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the central nervous system resulting in relief of ADHD symptoms
stimulants
A common side effect of SSRI's that can be relieved by drinking more water, chewing gum, or sucking on hard candy
dry mouth
Symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and odd behaviors are associated with this disorder and are treated with antipsychotics
Schizophrenia
Because some medications cause increased or decreased appetite, it is important monitor this number for changes indicating imbalanced nutrition
weight
A chemical messenger that influences body movement and is also believed to be involved in motivation, reward, reinforcement, and addictive behaviors
dopamine
Increases GABA, resulting in a relief of anxiety
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
suicidal ideation
A disorder characterized by mood swings from severe depression to euphoria (mania) that is treated with Lithium, a mood stabilizer.
Bipolar disorder
Doctors monitor this with a blood draw. Minnesotans commonly have low levels, especially in winter months, which can affect mood
Vitamin D