The DSM-5 disorders psychopharmacological interventions
Examine the psychopharmacological interventions currently used for the DSM-5 disorders
For depression, the most common psychopharmacological intervention is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), paroxetine (Paxil) or vortioxetine (Trintellix). These drugs work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which helps regulate moods. Tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine or amitriptyline may also be prescribed when SSRIs fail to provide sufficient relief from symptoms. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors like phenelzine are used primarily for atypical depressions that don’t respond well to other treatments.
In addition to depression, many anxiety-related disorders are treated with various types of antidepressant drugs including benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax) or clonazepam (Klonopin). Often referred to as “minor tranquillizers” these drugs have a calming effect on the central nervous system and are frequently prescribed in combination with an SSRI or tricyclic medication for maximum benefit. For obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), commonly prescribed drug therapies include clomipramine, fluvoxamine and sertraline; all three belong to a class known as serotonin reuptake inhibitors that work by increasing serotonin levels in order minimize intrusive thoughts related to OCD symptoms.
When dealing with psychotic episodes associated with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, physicians turn primarily towards antipsychotic medications including risperidone (Risperdal), olanzapine/fluoxetene combinations like Symbyax or quetiapine fumarate(Seroquel). Antipsychotics target dopamine receptors in order reduce hallucinations, delusions and physical agitation associated with psychosis . Several newer atypical antipsychotics have been developed over the last decade that offer fewer side effects than traditional neuroleptics while still providing effective symptom control. Atypicals may even prove useful in treating bipolar disorder although they should not be used solo but rather combined alongside mood stabilizers like lithium carbonate or lamotrigene(Lamictal). Since bipolar episodes can involve high energy states along with feelings of depression it is important that any drug regimen designed address both sides equally so patient does not become manic then crash into deep despair days later due enormous energy spikes followed by sudden drop offs caused only one type medication being administered .
Finally , attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD ) another condition where stimulant medications play key role managing core symptoms . Methylphenidate Ritalin ) amphetamines Adderall ) plus lisdexamfetamine Vyvanse ) among more frequently prescribed agents utilized increase focus alertness people affected this impairment however caution must exercised since potential abuse misuse these substances exists .