Pharmacology for Nurses Unit 1 Guidelines 12 February 2024.pdf

Guidelines for the use of antipsychotic medication with reference to different lines of treatments, dosages, side effects and management of relapse.

1. Unit 1:
Guidelines
Pharmacology 3
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2. Guidelines for the use of antipsychotic medication with
reference to different lines of treatments, dosages, side
effects and management of relapse.
•The use of antipsychotic medications is a crucial component in the
treatment of various psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia,
bipolar disorder, and other psychotic conditions.
•It's important to note that the guidelines for the use of antipsychotics
may vary based on the specific disorder being treated, individual
patient characteristics, and evolving research in the field.
•On the next slide are general guidelines addressing different aspects
of antipsychotic medication use:
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3. 1. First-Line Treatment:
•For the treatment of schizophrenia and related disorders, both typical
(first-generation) and atypical (second-generation) antipsychotics
are used.
•Atypical antipsychotics are often preferred due to a lower risk of
extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) compared to typical antipsychotics.
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4. 2. Individualized Treatment:
•Medication selection should be tailored to the individual patient,
taking into consideration factors such as symptom severity, comorbid
conditions, and potential side effects.
•Patient preferences, past response to medications, and family
history should be considered.
•Example Case scenario uploaded
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5. 3. Dosages:
•Initial dosages are typically lower, with gradual titration based on
response and tolerability.
•Regular monitoring of symptoms and side effects is essential for
adjusting dosage.
•The goal is to achieve an optimal balance between symptom control
and minimizing side effects.
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6. 4. Side Effects:
•Common side effects of antipsychotics may include weight gain,
sedation, metabolic effects (e.g., diabetes risk), and movement
disorders (EPS).
•Atypical antipsychotics are associated with a lower risk of EPS, but
some may have metabolic side effects.
•Regular monitoring for side effects, including metabolic parameters, is
crucial for long-term management.
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7. 5. Management of Relapse:
•Adherence to medication is critical in preventing relapse. Non-
adherence is a common cause of relapse in individuals with psychotic
disorders.
•Psychoeducationfor both patients and their families about the
importance of continuing medication is essential.
•In case of relapse, a thorough assessment is needed to determine
contributing factors, such as medication non-compliance, substance
use, or life stressors.
•Adjustments to medication, psychotherapy, or hospitalization may be
required in the event of a relapse.
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8. 6. Long-Term Maintenance:
•Long-term treatment is often necessary to prevent recurrence of
symptoms.
•The lowest effective dose should be used to minimize side effects.
•Regular follow-up and monitoring are crucial to assess the ongoing
efficacy and safety of the chosen antipsychotic.
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9. 7. Combination Therapy:
•In some cases, a combination of antipsychotic medications or the
addition of mood stabilizers may be considered, especially in the
treatment of bipolar disorder.
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10. 8. Periodic Review:
•Treatment plans should be periodically reviewed to ensure they align
with the patient's current needs and treatment goals.
•Adjustments may be necessary based on changes in symptoms, side
effects, or the emergence of new clinical information.
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