Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, MAOIs
What is the mechanism of action of Fluoxetine?
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), increases serotonin levels in the brain
What is the therapeutic range for Lithium
0.8-1.4
What is the difference between first-generation and second-generation antipsychotics?
First-gen mainly block dopamine (D2 receptors), second-gen block dopamine & serotonin
Which class of medications is first-line for long-term management of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
SSRIs and SNRIs (e.g., Sertraline, Venlafaxine)
What is a serious side effect of all antipsychotics that includes fever, muscle rigidity, and altered mental status?
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)
which class does Venlafaxine belong to?
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)
What are early signs of Lithium toxicity?
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle weakness.
Name a first-generation antipsychotic commonly used to treat schizophrenia.
Haloperidol or Chlorpromazine
What is the mechanism of action of Benzodiazepines?
Enhance GABA activity, leading to CNS depression.
What symptoms indicate serotonin syndrome?
Hyperreflexia, tremors, fever, confusion, autonomic instability.
What is a major dietary restriction for patients taking Phenelzine?
Avoid tyramine-rich foods (e.g., aged cheese, cured meats) to prevent hypertensive crisis.
Which anticonvulsant is also used as a mood stabilizer in Bipolar Disorder?
Valproate (Valproic acid)
Which second-generation antipsychotic has a high risk of agranulocytosis, requiring frequent WBC monitoring?
Clozapine
What is the risk of long-term Benzodiazepine use?
Dependence, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms.
What foods should be avoided with MAOIs?
Aged cheese, cured meats, wine, beer (tyramine-containing foods)
Which class of antidepressants is most associated with anticholinergic side effects (dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention)?
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) like Amitriptyline and Imipramine.
What is the most serious adverse effect of Carbamazepine?
Agranulocytosis (low white blood cell count) and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Which antipsychotic class is more likely to cause extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)?
First-generation (e.g., Haloperidol).
Which non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic is commonly used for GAD and has no risk of dependence?
Buspirone
What serious condition can result from rapid withdrawal of Benzodiazepines
Seizures, rebound anxiety, insomnia.
Which class of antidepressants has the highest risk of serotonin syndrome if combined with other serotonergic drugs?
MAOIs (e.g., Tranylcypromine, Phenelzine)
What is an advantage of Lamotrigine compared to other mood stabilizers?
Lower risk of weight gain and sedation, but risk of Stevens-Johnson syndrome
What metabolic effects should be monitored in second-generation antipsychotics like Olanzapine?
Weight gain, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia.
What is the antidote for Benzodiazepine overdose?
Flumazenil
What are the four major symptoms of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)?
Dystonia, akathisia, tardive dyskinesia, and Parkinsonism.