Therapy for Patients With Sleep/Wake Disorders

          From negative changes in mood to problems concentrating, sleep/wake disorders can have a tremendous impact on patients’ lives. When patients suffer from these disorders, they often seek medical care with the intent of receiving medications to manage symptoms. However, many of the medications used to treat sleep/wake disorders may be addictive, making thorough patient assessments and close follow-up care essential. To prescribe appropriate therapies with patient safety in mind, you must understand not only the pathophysiology of these disorders but also the pharmacologic agents used to treat them. Examine the assessment and treatment of patients with these disorders. You also explore ethical and legal implications of these therapies. Synthesize concepts related to the psychopharmacologic treatment of patients Assess patient factors and history to develop personalized therapy plans for patients with sleep/wake disorders Analyze factors that influence pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic processes in patients requiring therapy for sleep/wake disorders Explain the appropriate drug therapy for a patient who presents with MDD and a history of alcohol abuse. Which drugs are contraindicated, if any, and why? Be specific. What is the timeframe that the patient should see resolution of symptoms? List 4 predictors of late onset generalized anxiety disorder. List 4 potential neurobiology causes of psychotic major depression. An episode of major depression is defined as a period of time lasting at least 2 weeks. List at least 5 symptoms required for the episode to occur. Be specific. List 3 classes of drugs, with a corresponding example for each class, that precipitate insomnia. Be specific.