Psychopharmacology

Course #95231 - $60-


Self-Assessment Questions

    1 . The first American textbook on mental illness was published in
    A) 1812.
    B) 1856.
    C) 1901.
    D) 1933.

    A BRIEF HISTORY OF PSYCHIATRY AND PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY

    In the United States, the first attempt at humane treatment of psychiatric disorders was by the Quakers, who, in 1752, used the Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia to house patients in its basement; however, the environment in the hospital was damaging to patients, some of whom were shackled to walls[1]. Other early institutions for people deemed "mentally disturbed" were opened in the late 1700s in New York. In 1824, the Eastern Lunatic Asylum (now Eastern State Hospital) opened in Lexington, Kentucky. By 1890, every state had at least one publicly supported mental hospital, with populations that were rapidly expanding; by the 1950s, these institutions housed more than 500,000 patients [1]. One of the earliest practitioners of what could be called psychiatry was Dr. Benjamin Rush, who has been called the father of American psychiatry and who wrote the first American textbook on mental diseases (Medical Inquiries and Observations upon Diseases of the Mind) in 1812.

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    2 . In the mid-1900s, what approach to mental health treatment was overwhelmingly popular?
    A) Art therapy
    B) Psychoanalysis
    C) Pharmacotherapy
    D) Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

    A BRIEF HISTORY OF PSYCHIATRY AND PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY

    By the mid-20th century, psychoanalysis became overwhelmingly popular and was employed not only in the treatment of patients with anxiety or neurosis but also in the treatment of patients with more severe psychiatric disorders, such as psychosis, for which talk therapy had little to offer. Some postulate that the development of psychoanalysis stunted the development of psychopharmacology by promoting the notion that talk therapy could effectively treat all mental health issues.

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    3 . Most experts date the birth of modern psychopharmacology to the synthesis of
    A) lithium.
    B) fluoxetine.
    C) alprazolam.
    D) chlorpromazine.

    A BRIEF HISTORY OF PSYCHIATRY AND PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY

    The term psychopharmacology traces its roots to 1920, appearing first in the title of a paper by David Macht describing the use of quinine and antipyretics in tests on neuromuscular coordination. However, most experts date the true birth of psychopharmacology to 1951, when chlorpromazine was first synthesized [5].

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    4 . Which of the following agents is the most widely prescribed high-potency typical antipsychotic?
    A) Loxapine
    B) Haloperidol
    C) Chlorpromazine
    D) Methotrimeprazine

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    Typical antipsychotics (Table 1) have a primary site of action at the D2 receptor and are potent D2 receptor blockers. They also have noradrenergic, cholinergic, and histaminergic blocking action. These agents can also be described as high, intermediate, or low potency. High-potency antipsychotics are prescribed in lower doses, with the most widely prescribed of these being haloperidol (Haldol). Haloperidol is available in oral, intramuscular (IM), and long-acting IM decanoate formulations. Low-potency antipsychotics are prescribed in higher doses; the most widely used of these is chlorpromazine [17,18].

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    5 . Which of the following typical antipsychotics may be administered via inhalation?
    A) Loxapine
    B) Flupentixol
    C) Thioridazine
    D) Zuclopenthixol

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    TYPICAL ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    DrugDose RangeTypical Starting DoseUsual Maintenance DoseaRoute(s)Indication(s)
    Chlorpromazine25–800 mg/day25–50 mg/day100–400 mg daily or BIDIM, IV, POSchizophrenia, bipolar disorder, intractable hiccups, agitation/aggression (severe, acute) associated with psychiatric disorders
    Droperidol0.625–10 mg/day2.5–10 mg/day10 mg/dayIM, IVPostoperative nausea/vomiting, acute undifferentiated agitation (off-label)
    Flupentixol
    IM:5–40 mg/day
    Oral:1–6 mg/day
    IM:5–20 mg/day
    Oral: 1 mg/day
    IM: 20–40 mg every 2 to 3 weeks
    Oral: 3–6 mg/day in divided doses
    Oral, IM (depot)Schizophrenia
    Fluphenazine2.5–40 mg/day2.5–10 mg every 6 to 8 hours
    Oral: 5–40 mg/day
    IM: 12.5–25 mg every 2 to 4 weeks
    PO, IM, decanoatePsychotic disorders
    Haloperidol (Haldol)0.5–30 mg/dayOral: 0.5–5 mg BID5–15 mg BIDPO, IM, IV, decanoateBipolar disorder, hyperactive delirium, schizophrenia, Tourette-associated tics, acute/severe agitation (off-label)
    Loxapine (Adasuve)5–125 mg BID10–25 mg BID60–100 mg BIDPO, inhalationSchizophrenia, acute agitation
    Methotrimeprazine6–200 mg/day
    Mild: 6–25 mg/day in divided doses
    Severe: 50–75 mg/day in divided doses
    Oral: Up to 1 g/day in divided doses
    IM: 75–100 mg/day in divided doses
    PO, IMAnxiety/tension disorders, insomnia, nausea/vomiting, pain, psychotic disorders
    Molindone5–75 mg TID5–15 mg BID10–25 mg TIDPOSchizophrenia
    Periciazine5–40 mg/day5–20 mg in the morning, followed by 10–40 mg in the eveningTitrate to lowest effective dosePOPsychosis
    Perphenazine2–24 mg BID2–4 mg BID8–24 mg BIDPOSchizophrenia, nausea/vomiting
    Pimozide0.5–10 mg/day1–2 mg/day in divided dosesLowest effective dose (maximum: 10 mg)POTourette syndrome, delusional infestation (off-label)
    Prochlorperazine (Compro)2.5–25 mg/day
    Oral: 5–10 mg every 6 to 8 hours
    IM: 5–10 mg every 3 to 4 hours
    IV: 2.5–10 mg every 3 to 4 hours
    Rectal: 25 mg every 12 hours
    Maximum: 40 mg/dayPO, IM, IV, rectalAcute nausea and vomiting
    Thioridazine50–800 mg/day50–100 mg TID200–800 mg BID or QIDPOSchizophrenia
    Thiothixene2–30 mg BID2–5 mg BID10–15 mg BIDPOSchizophrenia
    Trifluoperazine2–40 mg/day1–2 mg BID15–20 mg/dayPOSchizophrenia
    Zuclopenthixol10–400 mg/day
    Oral: 10–50 mg/day in divided doses
    IM: 50–150 mg/day
    Oral: 20–40 mg/day
    IM: Up to a maximum 400 mg/day
    PO, IMSchizophrenia, psychoses (acute and long-term)
    aAll dosing is for adults. For pediatric uses, consult pediatric-specific literature.
    BID = twice daily, IM = intramuscular, IV = intravenous, PO = oral, QID = four times per day, TID = three times per day.
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    6 . Patients who are prescribed typical antipsychotics should be monitored for neurologic side effects using the standardized
    A) Aldrete score.
    B) brain imaging.
    C) Mini-Mental State Exam.
    D) Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS).

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    Patients who are prescribed typical antipsychotics should be monitored for neurologic side effects using the standardized Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) (Figure 1). The AIMS consists of 12 items and can usually be completed within 10 minutes. It was developed specifically to detect and record the occurrence of tardive dyskinesia in any patient taking neuroleptic medication. Tardive dyskinesia is a syndrome characterized by abnormal involuntary movements of the patient's face, mouth, trunk, or limbs, and it affects 20% to 30% of patients who have been treated for months or years with neuroleptic medications. Patients who are older, are heavy smokers, or have diabetes are at increased risk of developing tardive dyskinesia. For most patients, this side effect develops three months after the initiation of neuroleptic therapy; in elderly patients, however, tardive dyskinesia can develop after as little as one month [20].

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    7 . Antagonism of what neurotransmitter receptor is most correlated with weight gain and adverse metabolic effects associated with antipsychotics?
    A) Histamine (H1)
    B) Dopamine (D2)
    C) Serotonin (5HT)
    D) Norepinephrine

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    Meta-analyses have shown that all antipsychotics are associated with an increased risk for weight gain, with the greatest gain seen with atypical agents (clozapine and olanzapine) and the least with typical agents (haloperidol). Numerous studies have concluded that H1 receptor antagonism action is most correlated with weight gain, although other receptor sites (including 5HT receptors) were also significantly associated with weight gain [21].

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    8 . Which of the following medications is approved for the management of Parkinson-associated psychosis?
    A) Clozapine
    B) Aripirazole
    C) Risperidone
    D) Pimavanserin

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    ATYPICAL ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    DrugDose RangeTypical Starting DoseUsual Maintenance DoseaRoute(s)Indication(s)
    Aripiprazole (Abilify)2–30 mg/day2.5–5 mg/day10–20 mg/dayPO, decanoateBipolar disorder, treatment-resistant depression (adjunctive), schizophrenia
    Asenapine (Saphris, Secuado)5–10 mg BID5 mg BID10 mg BIDSL, transdermal patchBipolar disorder, schizophrenia
    Brexpiprazole (Rexulti)2–4 mg/day1 mg/day4 mg/day (with titration)POSchizophrenia, treatment-resistant depression (adjunctive)
    Cariprazine (Vraylar)1.5–6 mg/day1.5–6 mg/day3–6 mg/day (with titration)POBipolar disorder, schizophrenia
    Clozapine (Clozaril, Versacloz)25–800 mg/day25–800 mg/day250–400 mg hourly or BID (Strict titration guidelines, must be in REMS)PO (including oral disintegrating tablet)Schizophrenia, suicidal behavior in schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder
    Iloperidone (Fanapt)1–12 mg/day1–2 mg BID12 mg/day (lower doses in patients with hepatic dysfunction)POSchizophrenia
    Lumateperone (Caplyta)42 mg/day42 mg/day42 mg/dayPOSchizophrenia
    Lurasidone (Latuda)20–80 mg/day20 mg/day80 mg/dayPOBipolar major depression, schizophrenia
    Olanzapine (Zyprexa)2.5–20 mg/day2.5–5 mg/day15–20 mg/dayPO, IM, IVBipolar disorder, agitation/aggression associated with psychiatric disorders, schizophrenia
    Paliperidone (Invega)3–12 mg/day3 mg/day6 mg/dayPO, IM decanoateSchizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder
    Pimavanserin (Nuplazid)34 mg/day34 mg/day34 mg/dayPOParkinson-associated psychosis
    Quetiapine (Seroquel)25–800 mg/day50 mg/day200–400 mg/dayPO, extended-releaseBipolar disorder, schizophrenia
    Risperidone (Perseris, Risperdal)0.5–6 mg/day1–2 mg/day4 mg/dayPO, IM decanoateBipolar disorder, schizophrenia
    Ziprasidone (Geodon)20–80 mg/day40 mg BID80 mg BIDPO, short-acting IMBipolar disorder (adjunctive), schizophrenia
    aAll dosing is for adults. For pediatric uses, consult pediatric-specific literature.
    BID = twice daily, IM = intramuscular, IV = intravenous, PO = oral, QID = four times per day, REMS = Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy, SL = sublingual.
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    9 . What is the only atypical antipsychotic available in a sublingual formulation?
    A) Asenapine
    B) Quetiapine
    C) Iloperidone
    D) Brexiprazole

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    Asenapine is a dibenzo-oxepino pyrrole atypical antipsychotic with mixed serotonin-dopamine antagonist activity. It is unique as the only atypical antipsychotic available in a sublingual formulation. When administered sublingually for the management of agitation, the onset of effects is seen within 15 minutes. In bipolar disorder/acute mania, initial effects are present within days, with continued improvements over one to two weeks [19]. In patients being treated for schizophrenia, the initial effects are observed within one to two weeks, and maximal effects are noted in four to six weeks.

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    10 . At the initiation of clozapine therapy, absolute neutrophil count (ANC) monitoring should be conducted
    A) weekly for six months.
    B) every two weeks for 6 to 12 months
    C) monthly for six months.
    D) every six months.

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    The Clozapine REMS Program provides a centralized point of access for prescribers and pharmacies to certify before prescribing or dispensing clozapine and to enroll and manage patients on clozapine treatment [23]. The monitoring requirements are established for the general population (most patients being prescribed clozapine) and for patients with benign ethnic neutropenia (BEN). BEN is a condition observed in certain ethnic groups whose average ANCs are lower than "standard" laboratory ranges for neutrophils. It is most commonly observed in individuals of African descent (approximate prevalence of 25% to 50%), some Middle Eastern ethnic groups, and in other non-White ethnic groups with darker skin; it is also more common in men [23]. At initiation of therapy, ANC monitoring should be conducted weekly for six months. If ANC levels remain ≥1,500/mcL in the general population or ≥1,000/mcL in patients with BEN, monitoring frequency may be reduced to every two weeks from 6 to 12 months, then monthly after 12 months. If neutropenia develops, monitoring may be more frequent, from three times weekly to daily depending on the severity of the neutropenia [23]. Prescribers are required to submit patients' ANC levels to the Clozapine REMS Program for every prescription of clozapine according to the patient's monitoring frequency.

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    11 . All of the following are common adverse effects of quetiapine, EXCEPT:
    A) Bradycardia
    B) Dyslipidemias
    C) Extrapyramidal reaction
    D) Orthostatic hypotension (particularly among elderly patients)

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    There are no absolute contraindications to the use of quetiapine, aside from hypersensitivity. Drowsiness is a common effect and may be severe enough to result in impairment, inability to safely carry out activities of daily living (increased fall risk), and nonadherence [19]. Other common adverse effects include hypertension, orthostatic hypotension (particularly among elderly patients), tachycardia, dyslipidemias, weight gain, increased appetite, xerostomia, agitation, dizziness, extrapyramidal reaction, headache, and withdrawal syndrome.

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    12 . When risperidone is given by orally disintegrating tablet to manage acute agitation, the meant time to calm is
    A) 5 minutes.
    B) 30 minutes.
    C) 70 minutes.
    D) 90 minutes.

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    Risperidone's high 5-HT2 and dopamine-D2 receptor antagonist activity is responsible for its antipsychotic action. However, alpha1, alpha2 adrenergic, and histaminergic receptors are also antagonized with high affinity. Onset of action is within days to 2 weeks, though peak effect may be experienced after up to 12 weeks [19]. An orally disintegrating tablet may be used to manage acute agitation, with 70 minutes mean time to calm.

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    13 . In patients taking antipsychotic medications, the onset of neuroleptic malignant syndrome symptoms is generally apparent within
    A) one day of treatment initiation.
    B) two weeks of treatment initiation.
    C) two months of treatment initiation.
    D) six months of treatment initiation.

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    Onset of symptoms is generally apparent within two weeks of treatment initiation. Clinical presentation consists of rigidity/stiffness, high fever, sweating, confusion, unstable blood pressure, and agitation. Signs and symptoms usually progress to a peak after three days. Prompt recognition is necessary to avoid significant morbidity and mortality, and treatment is immediate cessation of the antipsychotic medication and implementation of supportive measures (e.g., hydration, cooling) [30]. In more severe cases, administration of bromocriptine mesylate or dantrolene sodium may be indicated.

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    14 . Which of the following statements regarding the treatment of tardive dyskinesia is TRUE?
    A) There are no medications approved for the treatment of tardive dyskinesia.
    B) If a new medication will be used, haloperidol should be considered first, as it has the lowest risk of tardive dyskinesia.
    C) Patients should be informed that tardive dyskinesia symptoms will improve immediately as medication dosages are lowered.
    D) The primary consideration for patients receiving typical antipsychotics should be dose reduction or switching medications.

    ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS

    Treatment of tardive dyskinesia can be difficult and an impediment to the clinical stabilization of the patient. The primary consideration for patients receiving typical antipsychotics should be dose reduction or switching medications. Patients should be warned that tardive dyskinesia symptoms may initially worsen transiently as medication dosages are lowered (i.e., withdrawal-emergent dyskinesias). If a new medication will be used, clozapine should be considered first, as it has the lowest risk of tardive dyskinesia. However, it is vital to ensure that control of psychosis is maintained, particularly in patients at risk for self-harm or violence.

    In 2017, the FDA approved the first medications for the treatment of tardive dyskinesia: valbenazine (Ingrezza) and deutetrabenazine (Austedo). The initial dose of valbenazine is 40 mg once daily. This is increased to 80 mg once daily after one week [19]. Continuation of a daily dose of 40 mg or 60 mg may be considered based on response and tolerability. Improvement is seen in 2 to 6 weeks, with the result stabilizing between 16 to 32 weeks. Deutetrabenazine is started at a dosage of 6 mg twice daily. This is increased as needed and tolerated in increments of 6 mg/day up to a maximum of 48 mg/day [19].

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    15 . What is the typical starting dose of fluoxetine?
    A) 1.5 mg/day
    B) 20 mg/day
    C) 75 mg/day
    D) 200 mg/day

    ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATIONS

    ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATIONSa

    DrugDose RangeTypical Starting DosePotential Adverse EffectsComments
    MAOIs
    Selegiline (Emsam, Zelapar)6–12 mg transdermal patch every 24 hours6 mg transdermal patch every 24 hours
    Serious food and drug interactions
    Also used in treatment of Parkinson disease
    Isocarboxazid (Marplan)10–40 mg/day10 mg BIDMay take 3 to 6 weeks to see effects. Dose should be reduced once maximum clinical effect is seen. If no response obtained within 6 weeks, additional titration is unlikely to be beneficial.
    Phenelzine (Nardil)15–30 mg every 8 hours15 mg every 8 hours
    Tranylcypromine (Parnate)10–60 mg BID10–30 mg BID
    Moclobemide300–600 mg/day300 mg/day in 2 divided doses
    Tricyclic Antidepressants
    Amitriptyline50–300 mg/day25–50 mg/day as a single dose at bedtime or in divided dosesXerostomia, sedationFollow levels and EKG/QTc
    Clomipramine (Anafranil)12.5–250 mg at night12.5–50 mg at nightApproved for OCD, off-label for MDD
    Doxepin (Silenor)25–300 mg at night or in divided doses25–50 mg at nightUsually reserved for treatment-resistant MDD
    Imipramine25–300 mg at night or in divided doses25–50 mg at night or in divided doses
    Trimipramine25–300 mg at night or in divided doses25–50 mg at night or in divided doses
    Amoxapine25–600 mg total (may be BID dosing)25–50 mg at bedtime or BIDThe maximum dose in outpatients is 400 mg/day; in hospitalized patients, it is 600 mg/day.
    Desipramine (Norpramin)25–300 mg daily or in divided doses25–50 mg/day
    Nortriptyline (Pamelor)25–150 mg/day25 mg at night
    Protriptyline10–60 mg daily divided in 3 to 4 doses10–20 mg daily divided in 3 to 4 doses
    SSRIs
    Citalopram (Celexa)20–40 mg/day20 mg/dayGI upset
    Few drug interactions
    Lower maximum daily dose (20 mg) recommended for patients at risk for QTc prolongation
    Escitalopram (Lexapro)10–20 mg/day10 mg/dayGI upsetAlso approved for generalized anxiety disorder
    Fluoxetine (Prozac)20–80 mg/day20 mg/dayGI upset, activation syndromeAlso approved for bulimia, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, and PMDD
    Fluvoxamine, immediate-release50–300 mg at night50 mg at nightNauseaApproved for OCD, off-label for MDD
    Fluvoxamine, controlled-release100–300 mg at night100 mg at night
    Paroxetine (Brisdelle, Paxil, Pexeva)20–50 mg/day20 mg/daySedationAlso approved for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, PMDD, social anxiety disorder, and vasomotor symptoms of menopause
    Paroxetine, controlled-release (Paxil CR)25–62.5 mg/day25 mg/daySedation
    Sertraline (Zoloft)50–200 mg/day50 mg/dayGI upsetAlso approved for OCD, panic disorder, PMDD, PTSD, and social anxiety disorder
    SNRIs
    Venlafaxine (Effexor)37.5–375 mg BID37.5–75 mg BIDNausea, hypertension, xerostomia, drowsinessUse with caution in patients with glaucoma
    Venlafaxine, extended-release (Effexor XR)37.5–225 mg/day37.5–75 mg/dayNausea, xerostomia, hypertension
    Use with caution in patients with glaucoma
    Also approved for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder
    Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)20–120 mg/day20 mg/dayOrthostatic hypotension (dose related), nausea
    Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)50–100 mg/day25-50 mg/dayDizziness, insomnia, hyperhidrosis, nausea, xerostomia, anxiety
    No evidence that dosing over 50 mg is more effective
    In patients who are sensitive to side effects (particularly anxiety), consider lower starting dose (25 mg/day)
    Duloxetine (Cymbalta, Drizalma Sprinkle)40–120 mg/day40–60 mg/dayActivation syndrome, weight loss, GI upset, headache
    Also approved for fibromyalgia, generalized anxiety disorder, chronic musculoskeletal pain, and diabetic neuropathic pain
    Avoid in patients with renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min)
    Milnacipran (Savella)25–100 mg BID25–50 mg BIDNausea, headache, constipation, insomniaApproved for fibromyalgia, off-label for MDD
    Atypical Antidepressants
    Bupropion (Aplenzin)75–450 mg/day in divided doses100 mg BIDIncreased seizure threshold, weight loss, GI upset, agitation
    Also approved for smoking cessation and seasonal affective disorder
    No sexual side effects
    Bupropion, sustained-release (Wellbutrin SR)150–200 mg BID150 mg/day in the morning
    Bupropion, extended-release (Forfivo XL, Wellbutrin XL)150–450 mg/day in the morning150–175 mg/day in the morning
    Mirtazapine (Remeron)15–45 mg at bedtime15 mg at bedtimeWeight gain, increased appetite, drowsinessWeight gain may limit satisfaction and compliance
    Trazodone50–600 mg BID50 mg BIDDrowsiness, dizziness, xerostomia, GI upset
    Nefazodone50–600 mg in divided doses50–100 mg BIDHeadache, xerostomia, drowsinessShould not be initiated in individuals with active liver disease or elevated baseline serum transaminases
    Brexanolone (Zulresso)
    60-hour continuous IV infusion
    (Total dose: 270 mg/kg)
    Drowsiness, sedation, xerostomia, dizziness
    Used only for inpatient treatment of postpartum depression
    Requires REMS
    Esketamine (Spravato)56–84 mg intranasal twice weekly56–84 mg intranasal twice weeklyDissociation, anxiety, nausea, dizziness
    Reserved for treatment-resistant MDD or MDD with suicidality
    Requires REMS
    Serotonin 5-HT1A Receptor Agonist
    Gepirone (Exxua)18.2–72.6 mg18.2 mg/dayNausea, dizzinessNo sexual side effects or weight gain
    Multimodal Agents
    Vilazodone (Viibryd)10–40 mg/day10 mg/dayHeadache, GI upsetAlternative agent
    Vortioxetine (Trintellix)5–20 mg/day5–10 mg/dayNausea, sexual dysfunction
    aAll information provided is for reference only. Unless otherwise stated, all agents are approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder, unipolar.
    BID = twice daily, EKG = electrocardiogram, GI = gastrointestinal, MAOI = monoamine oxidase inhibitor, MDD = major depressive disorder, OCD = obsessive-compulsive disorder, PMDD = premenopausal dysphoric disorder, PTSD = post-traumatic stress disorder, SNRI = serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, SSRI = selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor.
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    16 . Which of the following is NOT an advantage of using SSRIs in the treatment of depression?
    A) Ease of dosing
    B) Low toxicity in overdose
    C) Less prominent side effect profile
    D) Efficacy in initially addressing anxiety or panic symptoms

    ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATIONS

    SSRIs are thought to act by inhibiting serotonin transporters (SERT) that reuptake serotonin (5-HT) into the presynaptic cell, increasing 5-HT in the synaptic cleft. SSRIs have advantages of low overdose lethality and better tolerability than first-generation antidepressants, which can improve adherence. SSRIs are particularly effective in patients with obsessive-compulsive symptoms, but may initially worsen anxiety or panic symptoms [35,43,44]. This class includes the agents fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), fluvoxamine (Luvox), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), and vortioxetine (Brintellix). Escitalopram may have fewer drug-drug interactions than other SSRIs, and fluoxetine may be a better choice in patients with poorer adherence due to its long half-life [35,43,44].

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    17 . The large side effect profiles of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are likely due to
    A) abuse potential.
    B) toxicity at therapeutic doses.
    C) central action affecting many body systems.
    D) their high affinity for the H1 and H2 histamine receptors and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors.

    ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATIONS

    TCAs are predominantly serotonin and/or norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors that act by blocking the serotonin transporter and the norepinephrine transporter, respectively, which results in an elevation of the extracellular concentrations of these neurotransmitters, and therefore an enhancement of neurotransmission. TCAs also have varying but typically high affinity for the H1 and H2 histamine receptors and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. As a result, they also act as potent antihistamines and anticholinergics. These properties are generally undesirable in antidepressants, however, and likely contribute to their large side effect profiles [48].

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    18 . The restrictive diet required with oral MAOIs is due to which mechanism?
    A) Muscarinic receptor blockade
    B) Inhibition of dietary amine catabolism
    C) Antagonism of intestinal opioid receptors
    D) Activation of gastrointestinal serotonin receptors

    ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATIONS

    With oral ingestion, MAOIs inhibit the catabolism of dietary amines. When foods containing tyramine are consumed, the individual may suffer from hypertensive crisis [50]. If foods containing tryptophan are consumed, hyperserotonemia may result. The amount required to cause a reaction varies greatly from individual to individual and depends on the degree of inhibition, which in turn depends on dosage and selectivity.

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    19 . Which of the following antidepressants is sedating and may be superior in the treatment of depression associated with severe insomnia and anxiety?
    A) Sertraline
    B) Fluoxetine
    C) Citalopram
    D) Mirtazapine

    ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATIONS

    Mirtazapine can be very sedating and promotes appetite and weight increase, which in some patients may be desirable. It has a faster onset of action than fluoxetine, paroxetine, or sertraline, and may be superior to SSRIs in depression associated with severe insomnia and anxiety. Trazodone is also very sedating and is usually used as a sleep aid rather than as an antidepressant [35,43,44].

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    20 . The prevalence of sexual side effects is highest with which of the following antidepressants?
    A) Bupropion
    B) Trazodone
    C) Venlafaxine
    D) Moclobemide

    ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATIONS

    Nearly all commercially available antidepressants are associated with sexual side effects. SSRI/SNRIs show the highest rates of sexual dysfunction, including impaired sexual motivation, desire, arousal, and orgasm affecting men and women. Prescribers greatly underestimate the prevalence and patient burden of sexual side effects from antidepressants and other medications [56]. Among antidepressants, prevalence rates of sexual side effects are highest with venlafaxine and SSRIs; moderate with TCAs and MAOIs; low with bupropion, trazodone, nefazodone, mirtazapine, agomelatine, and vilazodone; and lowest with the reversible MAOI moclobemide [57,58]. As noted, gepirone is not associated with sexual dysfunction. Compared to spontaneous patient reporting, systematic inquiry increases the rate of identifying sexual side effects by ≥60% [58].

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    21 . Which of the following antidepressants is associated with the lowest risk of discontinuation symptoms?
    A) Paroxetine
    B) Fluoxetine
    C) Venlafaxine
    D) Amitriptyline

    ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATIONS

    Antidepressant discontinuation (more appropriately termed withdrawal) symptoms are described by the FINISH mnemonic (flu-like symptoms, insomnia, nausea, imbalance, sensory disturbances, hyperarousal), may be experienced by up to 40% of patients when antidepressants are stopped abruptly, and may occur with any antidepressant [62,63,64,65]. SSRI withdrawal symptoms are far more frequent with paroxetine. Common symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headache, confusion, low energy, weakness, sleep disturbance, flu-like symptoms, restlessness, agitation, anxiety, panic, anger, and irritability. Less common and more severe symptoms include electric-shock sensations, vertigo, paresthesia, intensified suicidal ideation, aggression, derealization, depersonalization, and visual/auditory hallucinations. Gradual tapering is a reasonable strategy but does not prevent the onset of SSRI withdrawal [66]. SSRI withdrawal syndrome is least likely with fluoxetine and vortioxetine [62].

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    22 . Among the antidepressants, the only agent approved for use in treating major depressive disorder in pediatric patients is
    A) sertraline.
    B) fluoxetine.
    C) fluvoxamine.
    D) clomipramine.

    ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATIONS

    Among the antidepressants, only fluoxetine is approved for use in treating major depressive disorder in pediatric patients. In addition, fluoxetine, sertraline, fluvoxamine, and clomipramine are approved for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in pediatric patients. Other than these indications, all other use of antidepressants in children is off-label [71]. However, these off-label uses are relatively common, particularly among adolescents and pediatric patients with more severe disease.

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    23 . Which of the following is a contributor to treatment-resistant depression?
    A) Illness severity
    B) Medical and psychiatric comorbidity
    C) Limitations of FDA-approved drug options
    D) All of the above

    ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATIONS

    Treatment-resistant depression is a problem increasingly encountered by primary care and mental health providers. Contributors to treatment-resistant depression include illness severity, medical and psychiatric comorbidity, and the limitations of FDA-approved drug options. The definition of treatment resistance lacks consensus, but the most common definition is an inadequate response to two or more antidepressants. This does not consider adjunctive strategies or distinguish patients with partial versus non-response [62,77].

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    24 . What is the typical starting dose for lithium in the treatment of bipolar disorder?
    A) 2.5-5 mg three times per day.
    B) 40 mg per day.
    C) 100 mg per day.
    D) 300 mg twice daily.

    MOOD STABILIZERS AND BIPOLAR DISORDER

    MEDICATIONS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF BIPOLAR DISORDER

    DrugDose RangeTypical Starting DosePotential Adverse EffectsComments
    Lithium (Lithobid)600–1,800 mg/day in divided doses300 mg BIDXerostomia, tremor, thyroid-stimulating hormone elevation, leukocytosis, nauseaLithium toxicity is closely related to serum lithium levels and can occur at doses close to therapeutic levels. Monitoring should be available before initiating therapy.
    Anticonvulsants
    Valproic acid (Divalproex)250–1,500 mg BID based on levels250–500 mg PO BIDWeight gain, hair loss, GI upsetDrug levels, complete blood count, and hepatic function should be followed.
    Carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Epitol, Equetro, Tegretol)100–800 mg BID100–200 mg BIDWeight gainHepatic function, drug level, and CBC should be followed.
    Lamotrigine (Lamictal, Subvenite)Titrate to maximum 200 mg/day25 mg/dayNausea, tremor, rash, Stevens Johnson syndrome
    Atypical Antipsychotics
    Aripiprazole (Abilify)2.5–30 mg/day2.5–5 mg/dayWeight gain (least likely in this class), extrapyramidal symptoms, constipation, sedationAvailable in long-acting IM formulation
    Asenapine (Saphris, Secuado)2.5–10 mg BID2.5–5 mg PO BIDWeight gain, extrapyramidal symptoms, constipation, sedation
    Cariprazine (Vraylar)1.5–6 mg/day1.5 mg/dayWeight gain, extrapyramidal symptoms, constipation, sedation
    Lurasidone (Latuda)40–160 mg/day40 mg/dayWeight gain, extrapyramidal symptoms, constipation, sedation
    Olanzapine (Zyprexa)2.5–30 mg either BID or at night2.5 mg/dayWeight gain (very likely), extrapyramidal symptoms, constipation, sedation
    Olanzapine/fluoxetine (Symbyax)Up to 18 mg/day olanzapine and 75 mg/day fluoxetine6 mg/day olanzapine and 25 mg/day fluoxetineWeight gain, extrapyramidal symptoms, constipation, sedationUsually given at night
    Quetiapine (Seroquel)50–800 mg/day50–100 mg daily or BIDWeight gain, extrapyramidal symptoms, constipation, sedationAvailable in extended-release formulation
    Risperidone (Perseris, Risperdal)0.5–6 mg/day (may be given BID)0.5–1 mg daily or BIDWeight gain, extrapyramidal symptoms, constipation, sedation, increased prolactin, male gynecomastiaAvailable in long-acting IM formulation
    Ziprasidone (Geodon)40–80 mg BID40 mg BIDWeight gain, extrapyramidal symptoms, constipation, sedation, increased prolactinTaken with food to improve absorption
    BID = twice per day, CBC = complete blood count, GI = gastrointestinal, IM = intramuscular, PO = oral.
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    25 . Although all major antidepressant classes are comparably effective against anxiety disorders, which of the following is recommended due to better safety and tolerability?
    A) TCAs
    B) Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
    C) Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
    D) None of the above

    ANTIANXIETY MEDICATIONS

    SSRIs are considered first-line therapy for generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder [101,103]. TCAs have comparable efficacy to SSRIs in panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder [104,105]. TCAs are lethal in overdose and, compared with SSRIs, have a markedly broader, more problematic, and less tolerable side effect profile [101]. Nonetheless, TCAs may work when first-line agents do not [106]. Also, some patients with panic disorder are sensitive to both beneficial and adverse effects of TCAs, so cannot tolerate imipramine doses >10 mg/day but still experience panic blockade [101].

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    26 . The benzodiazepine with greater efficacy in panic disorder is
    A) diazepam.
    B) lorazepam.
    C) alprazolam.
    D) clonazepam.

    ANTIANXIETY MEDICATIONS

    Meta-analyses suggest alprazolam, lorazepam, and diazepam are effective but comparable in generalized anxiety disorder efficacy, while clonazepam shows much greater efficacy in the treatment of panic disorder than alprazolam, lorazepam, and diazepam, which all have modest efficacy [112].

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    27 . Which of the following reflects inappropriate benzodiazepine prescribing?
    A) As-needed for ongoing treatment of chronic mild-to-moderate anxiety
    B) Short-term (two to four weeks) use in patients with severe anxiety and unacceptable distress
    C) For infrequent use, to permit exposure to situations evoking severe anxiety (e.g., plane travel)
    D) In the initial weeks of SSRI/SNRI initiation to quickly reduce anxiety before the onset of SSRI/SNRI anxiolytic effects

    ANTIANXIETY MEDICATIONS

    Benzodiazepine treatment of anxiety disorders is controversial. While effective in rapid anxiety reduction, the potential drawbacks with long-term use are substantial. These agents are indicated when potent, short-term anxiolytic effects are necessary to permit infrequent exposure to feared stimuli and potentially severe anxiety, such as airplane travel [103,106,113]. Clonazepam, lorazepam, and alprazolam are effective for short-term use in panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and SAD, but ineffective for, and potentially worsening, comorbid depression [114]. The rapid anxiolytic effects make benzodiazepines highly appealing to patients with anxiety, but aside from this specific context, benzodiazepine prescribing for as-needed use is discouraged [106,115,116]. Benzodiazepines can reinforce pill taking, serve as a safety signal that undermines self-efficacy, and become incorporated into conditioned fear responses; these concerns are heightened with as-needed use. On-demand dosing links pill taking to rapid anxiety reduction, powerfully reinforcing avoidance in anxiety-provoking situations and encouraging longer-term reliance on the drug. This iatrogenic effect also contributes to poor response to cognitive-behavioral therapy.

    The current recommended prescribing is for time-dependent use, instead of panic response-dependent use, to minimize the risks [103]. This would also seem to maximize risk of withdrawal syndrome from uninterrupted versus intermittent drug exposure.

    Benzodiazepines are also useful in the initial weeks of SSRI/SNRI initiation to rapidly reduce anxiety and possible early anxiogenic medication side effects before the onset of SSRI/SNRI anxiolytic effects [103,106,113]. However, patients may discontinue the antidepressant when co-prescribed a rapidly effective benzodiazepine, believing the benzodiazepine's symptom relief makes the SSRI/SNRI unneeded. Supportive therapy with regular visits or phone contacts may also help patients remain adherent until the delayed onset of antidepressant benefits appears or early antidepressant side effects lessen [117].

    Another indication for benzodiazepine use is for the short-term relief (two to four weeks only) of anxiety that is severe, disabling, or subjecting the individual to unacceptable distress. Perhaps the greatest prescribing challenge with benzodiazepines is preventing short-term use from insidiously developing into long-term use. Patients with the most severe anxiety may obtain the greatest relief and become most hesitant to discontinue use [118]. In many cases, clinicians ignore the recommended two- to four-week prescribing limit, mainly because alternative options with superior anxiolytic effects are not available [119]. Clinicians intending to prescribe alprazolam should carefully consider the likelihood that its use will remain restricted to the very short term—a few days to a couple weeks—to see the patient through a crisis [118].

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    28 . Long-term benzodiazepine use can result in added symptoms during stable-dose maintenance. Which of the following is one of these symptoms?
    A) Weight gain
    B) Hypotension
    C) Increasing anxiety
    D) Extrapyramidal reactions

    ANTIANXIETY MEDICATIONS

    Long-term benzodiazepine use can result in added symptoms during stable-dose maintenance, including increasing anxiety and withdrawal-associated symptoms such as perceptual disturbances and paresthesia. This emerging withdrawal syndrome despite ongoing benzodiazepine use is much more likely with highly potent and rapidly eliminated alprazolam or lorazepam and is temporarily alleviated by dose escalation. As craving, dysphoria, and other withdrawal symptoms develop over time between doses, the motivation to continue benzodiazepine use for anxiolysis gradually merges with the need to avoid withdrawal symptoms [124].

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    29 . Despite comparable dosing, patients with which anxiety disorder often show greater difficulty tapering off of benzodiazepines?
    A) Agoraphobia
    B) Panic disorder
    C) Specific phobia
    D) Generalized anxiety disorder

    ANTIANXIETY MEDICATIONS

    Despite comparable dosing, patients with panic disorder often show greater difficulty tapering than patients with generalized anxiety disorder. Problems during alprazolam tapering are most severe during the last half of the taper. Patients with panic disorder receiving diazepam or alprazolam had fewer problems during taper of the top 50% of daily dose. However, with abrupt discontinuation of the remaining dose, alprazolam caused significantly more anxiety, relapse, and rebound. This may reflect greater problems withdrawing from short half-life, high-potency benzodiazepines like alprazolam [43].

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    30 . Which of the following agents is approved for the treatment of alcohol use disorder?
    A) Buprenorphine
    B) Bupropion
    C) Varenicline
    D) Acamprosate

    PHARMACOTHERAPY FOR SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

    MEDICATIONS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

    DrugDose RangeTypical Starting DosePotential Adverse EffectsRoute(s)
    Opioid Use Disorder
    Buprenorphine/naloxone (Bunavail, Suboxone, Zubsolv)
    Buprenorphine: 0.7–24 mg/day
    Naloxone: 0.18–6 mg/day
    4/1 mg/dayPain, headache, nausea, diaphoresisBuccal film, sublingual film, sublingual tablet
    Methadone (Dolophine, Methadose, DISKETS)20–120 mg/day20–30 mg/dayPruritus, constipation, cardiac abnormalitiesPO, IV
    Naltrexone (Vivitrol)
    PO: 25–50 mg/day
    IM: 380 mg/week
    PO: 25 mg/day
    IM: 380 mg/week
    Injection site reactions, anxiety, syncopePO, IM
    Buprenorphine (Belbuca, Buprenex, Butrans, Probuphine, Sublocade)
    SQ: 100–300 mg/month
    SL:2–24 mg/day
    SQ: 300 mg/month
    Implant: 4 implants
    SL:2–4 mg/day
    FewSublingual tablet, subdermal implant, SQ injection
    Alcohol Use Disorder
    Acamprosate (Campral)666 mg TID666 mg TIDDiarrheaPO
    Naltrexone (Vivitrol)
    PO: 25–100 mg/day
    IM: 380 mg/month
    PO: 50 mg/day
    IM: 380 mg/month
    Injection site reactions, anxiety, syncopePO, IM
    Disulfiram125–500 mg/day250 mg/dayBitter taste, impotence, drowsinessPO
    Nicotine Use Disorder
    Bupropion, sustained-release (Zyban)150 mg daily or BID150 mg/dayWeight loss, constipation, agitation, xerostomia, nauseaPO
    Nicotine
    Gum: Up to a maximum 30 pieces/day
    Inhaler: 6–16 cartridges/day
    Lozenge: Titrate to 1 lozenge every 4 to 8 hours
    Nasal spray: Maximum 80 sprays/day
    Patch: One patch/day for 8 weeks
    Gum: 1 to 2 pieces/hour (2 mg/piece)
    Inhaler: 6 cartridges/day
    Lozenge: One lozenge every 1 to 2 hours
    Nasal spray: 1 spray in each nostril once or twice per hour
    Patch: One patch/day
    Oral irritation, headache, dyspepsia, nasal discomfort, cough, rhinitisPO, intranasal, transdermal
    Varenicline (Chantix)a1 mg BID up to 12 weeks0.5 mg/dayNausea, abnormal dreams, headachePO
    BID = two times per day, IM = intramuscular, IV = intravenous, PO = oral, SL = sublingual, SQ = subcutaneous, TID = three times per day.
    aVarenicline production was halted and lots were voluntary recalled in 2021 due to unacceptable levels of nitrosamines.
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