SOE 522: Antidepressant Drugs

SOE Format: Please answer the following questions on the given topic The case will be displayed with each question followed by an answer, allowing you to review your given response A timer is available for use to determine the given time period The following questions...

How can antidepressants be classified?

Class Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (NRIs) Serotonin and Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) Dopamine and Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (DNRIs)...

What is the mechanism of action of SSRIs?

Serotonin reuptake inhibition (leads to increased 5HT in the synaptic cleft): 5HT1A agonism – Antidepressant, anxiolytic, anti-obsessive, antibulimic effects 5HT2 agonism – Agitation, Akathisia, anxiety/panic, insomnia, sexual dysfunction; 5HT3 agonism – Nausea, GI...

What are the side effects of SSRIs?

Anticholinergic effects: Dry mouth Constipation Blurred vision Urinary retention and hesitancy A1-adrenoreceptor antagonist effects: Drowsiness Postural hypotension Sexual Dysfunction Cardiovascular effects: Tachycardia Hypotension Cardiac conduction...