Clinical Psychopharmacology Made Ridiculously Simple Top 〈RECENT - 2027〉

Clinical Pearl: If no improvement by week 6, double the dose (if tolerated) for 4 more weeks. Still no? Switch class.

Before adding a 3rd medication, ask: "Does this patient really need two antidepressants?" clinical psychopharmacology made ridiculously simple top

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Antipsychotics are divided into two generations based on their receptor affinity. Clinical Pearl: If no improvement by week 6,

| Class | Prototype | What it does in 5 words | Top side effect | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | SSRI | Sertraline (Zoloft) | Boosts serotonin, calms anxiety | Sexual dysfunction, GI upset | | SNRI | Venlafaxine (Effexor) | Boosts serotonin + norepinephrine | Hypertension (at high dose) | | Stimulant | Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) | Increases dopamine for focus | Appetite loss, insomnia | | Atypical Antipsychotic | Aripiprazole (Abilify) | Stabilizes dopamine (partial agonist) | Akathisia (restlessness) | | Mood Stabilizer | Lithium | Hardens neuronal membranes | Tremor, thirst, kidney damage | Before adding a 3rd medication, ask: "Does this