Back to notes
Name two medications that can increase the concentration of SSRIs in the body and require monitoring.
Press to flip
Warfarin and Digoxin.
How do SSRIs impact the management of chronic pain and arthritis?
Medications like Ibuprofen and Naproxen, commonly used for chronic pain and arthritis, can reduce the levels of SSRIs.
What are the primary functions affected by serotonin in the human body?
Mood, sleep, appetite, sexual desire, and cognition.
Which SSRI is identified as having potential cardiac side effects that limit its dosage to 20 mg or less in older adults?
Citalopram (Celexa).
What should be monitored to distinguish between SSRIs side effects and symptoms of pre-existing depression?
The timing of symptoms, to determine whether they are due to the SSRI or if they were present before starting the medication.
How do SSRIs increase serotonin levels in the brain?
SSRIs prevent the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin into presynaptic neurons, thereby prolonging its presence in the synaptic region.
Identify two medications that can reduce the efficacy of SSRIs when taken concurrently.
Ibuprofen and Naproxen.
What precaution should be taken when administering Prozac and Paxil to older adults?
Monitor for drug interactions, cognitive effects, and sedation which can increase the risk of falls.
Explain the term 'serotonin syndrome' and its potential risks.
Serotonin syndrome is a potentially fatal condition caused by excess serotonin and presents with symptoms such as mental status changes, hyperthermia, and hypertension.
Why is it important to start older adults on low doses of SSRIs and increase the dosage slowly?
Older adults may be more sensitive to drug interactions and side effects such as cognitive effects, sedation (increasing fall risk), and cardiac side effects.
Why must alcohol consumption be monitored in patients taking SSRIs?
Alcohol can increase SSRI levels, leading to risks such as mental status changes, hyperthermia, and serotonin syndrome.
Which SSRI is primarily used for treating OCD rather than depression?
Fluvoxamine (Luvox).
List four common SSRIs mentioned in the lecture and their generic names.
Fluoxetine (Prozac), Paroxetine (Paxil), Sertraline (Zoloft), Citalopram (Celexa), Escitalopram (Lexapro).
Describe the role of tryptophan in serotonin production.
Tryptophan is a precursor chemical necessary for the production of serotonin.
What are some common side effects associated with SSRI usage?
Headache, reduced libido, and insomnia.
Previous
Next