Drug therapy for a patient who presents with MDD

• In 3 or 4 sentences, 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 depressive 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.

Full Answer Section

 
  • Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are another option for treating MDD, but they are more likely to interact with alcohol than SSRIs.
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are a third option for treating MDD, but they are contraindicated in patients who drink alcohol.
The timeframe for resolution of depressive symptoms will vary depending on the individual patient and the specific treatment regimen. However, most patients will see some improvement in their symptoms within 4-6 weeks of starting treatment. Predictors of late onset generalized anxiety disorder Late onset generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a type of anxiety disorder that typically begins in adulthood. There are a number of factors that can predict the onset of late onset GAD, including:
  • Age. Late onset GAD is more common in older adults.
  • Gender. Women are more likely to develop late onset GAD than men.
  • Family history. People with a family history of anxiety disorders are more likely to develop late onset GAD.
  • Medical conditions. Some medical conditions, such as thyroid problems and heart disease, can increase the risk of developing late onset GAD.
  • Life stressors. Life stressors, such as job loss or the death of a loved one, can trigger the onset of late onset GAD.
Neurobiology causes of psychotic major depression Psychotic major depression is a type of depression that is characterized by the presence of psychotic symptoms, such as delusions or hallucinations. There are a number of potential neurobiological causes of psychotic major depression, including:
  • Abnormalities in brain structure and function. Studies have shown that people with psychotic major depression have structural and functional abnormalities in certain areas of the brain, such as the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus.
  • Imbalances in neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells. Imbalances in certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, have been linked to psychotic major depression.
  • Genetic factors. There is a genetic component to psychotic major depression. People who have a family history of the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.

Sample Answer

  Drug therapy for MDD and alcohol abuse The appropriate drug therapy for a patient who presents with MDD and a history of alcohol abuse will depend on the individual patient's specific symptoms and medical history. However, some general guidelines include:
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are generally considered to be the first-line treatment for MDD. However, SSRIs can interact with alcohol, so it is important to monitor patients closely for any side effects.