Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates

Dec 28, 2018

Here is a summary of this episode:

• In patients with liver impairment, it is better to use drugs that are metabolized by phase II enzymes or drugs that are not metabolized by the liver at all.
• Patients with severe renal impairment may also have liver impairment. Use ⅔ of the recommended dose.
• Benzodiazepines and...

Dec 14, 2018

Here is a summary of this episode:

• Always ask about over-the-counter drugs like antacids, antiemetics, and spasmolytics as they may interfere with drug absorption.
• In patients who have undergone gastric bypass, use immediate release formulations, or give liquid form of drugs.
• There is evidence to suggest that...

Nov 29, 2018

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Geriatric Psychopharmacology

• Today’s topic is geriatric psychopharmacology.
• Do one thing at a time. Start low and go slow with medication titration and avoid PRN prescribing. Avoid medications on the Beers list like antihistamines, anticholinergics, and tricyclic antidepressants.

Nov 15, 2018

Today’s question is: How to manage treatment-resistant depression?

Here is a summary of this episode:

• The first step in the management of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is adequate history taking and assessment for comorbidities and bipolar depression.
• Augmentation is more effective than switching. Adding...

Oct 30, 2018

Today’s question is: How to manage an agitated patient?

Here is a summary of this episode:

• Antipsychotics are the mainstay of treatment; addressing psychotic agitation as well as treating delirium. Haloperidol is best combined with a benzodiazepine, showing both high efficacy and low side effect profile.
• There are...