Behavioral Science

98 Deja Review: Behavioral Science
What are the most commonly used
tricyclics?
Are there any other medications to
treat depression?
Why are MAOIs a third-line option?
What is serotonin syndrome?
When does a hypertensive crisis occur
in the context of MAOI use?
When are MAO inhibitors particularly
efficacious?
Are there any other ways to treat
depression?
What type of psychotherapy is used
to treat depression?
Amitriptyline, desipramine, imipramine,
and nortriptyline
Yes, the monoamine oxidase inhibitors
(MAOIs), considered third-line option.
MAOIs are rarely used any more.
The main reason for not using them
is due to the drug-drug interactions
and diet restrictions. If these are not
strictly followed, they may cause
serotonin syndrome and
hypertensive crisis.
A clinical entity that consists of
hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, and
altered mental status. This syndrome
is seen when MAOIs are combined
with SSRIs (mostly), Demerol,
pseudoephedrine, and other
medications that can increase
serotonin and norepinephrine.
Hypertensive crisis originates when
patients who are on MAOIs ingest food
rich in tyramine, like wine and cheese,
or take medications such as
sympathomimetics, bronchodilators,
DOPA, etc.
Atypical depression (those with
increased appetite and sleep) and
treatment-resistant depression
Yes, by using psychotherapy or
electroconvulsive therapy in severe
depression
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, which
attempts to recognize negative thoughts
or behaviors and then tries to change
them
Psychodynamic psychotherapy, which
focuses on self-understanding and
inner conflicts
Interpersonal therapy, which examines
the patient’s problems in relation to
their symptoms and how to deal with
those problems