,Chapter Topic Subtopics
Guiding Psychopharmacology Principles;
Additional Guiding Principles; Organization and
1 Getting Started
Overview; Selected Changes and Updates in Third
Edition
Rationale for the Conceptual Framework; Group 1
Conceptual Framework for
Medications for ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression;
2 Prescribing Psychotropic
Group 2 Medications; Group 3 Medications;
Medications
References
Overview; Diagnosis of Common Disorders
(ADHD, Anxiety, Depression); Diagnosis of
Common Comorbidities; Recognizing Other
3 Making a Diagnosis
Psychiatric Disorders; Determine if Medication Is
Indicated; Recognize Need for Referral;
References
Formulation; Feedback; Nonmedication
Interventions; Informed Consent; Specific
Consent Issues; Off-label Prescribing; FDA
4 Laying the Groundwork
Boxed Warnings; Triage for Psychiatric and
Social Emergencies; Important Considerations for
Safe and Effective Prescribing; References
Group 1 Medications for General Guidance; Methylphenidate;
5 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Amphetamine; Guanfacine; Clonidine;
Disorder Atomoxetine; Viloxazine; Summary; References
General Guidance; SSRIs;
Group 1 Medications for Anxiety
6 Serotonin-Noradrenergic Reuptake Inhibitor
and Depression
(Duloxetine); Summary; References
Group 2 Medications:
Rationale; Antipsychotics; The Mood Stabilizer
7 FDA-Approved Antipsychotics
Lithium; Summary; References
and Mood Stabilizers
Other Antidepressants; Other Antipsychotics;
Group 3 Medications: Others
8 Other Mood Stabilizers; Anxiolytics; Sleep Aids;
Commonly Prescribed
Future Considerations; References
Reevaluate Therapies; Reevaluate Medication;
Discontinuing Group 1 Medications; Switching
Group 1 Medications; When to Consider Group 2
9 Fine Tuning Treatment or Lithium; When to Consider Group 3
(Off-label); Drug Levels or Genetic Testing; Can
Genotyping Improve Response?; Consultation or
Second Opinion; References
Reassess Diagnoses; Complex Psychosocial
10 Managing Treatment Impasses Presentations; Expert Consultation or Referral;
References
,Chapter 1.
Q1. Which of the following best describes the principle
“start low, go slow” in pediatric psychopharmacology? A.
Initiating therapy at lower doses and increasing gradually
based on response and tolerability B. Starting with the
maximum recommended dose to achieve rapid symptom
control C. Beginning with adjunctive therapy only after
monotherapy fails D. Using the lowest-cost medication
first regardless of dose recommendations
Correct Answer: A Rationale: The “start low, go slow”
principle emphasizes initiating at low doses and titrating
gradually for safety and tolerability. Options B, C, and D
do not reflect this dose-titration approach.
Q2. Before prescribing a psychotropic medication to a
child, a primary care provider should first: A. Review
efficacy and safety data specific to pediatric populations
B. Obtain a generic version of the medication C. Schedule
a follow-up visit within one month D. Order genetic
testing for all patients
,Correct Answer: A Rationale: Safety and efficacy data in
pediatric populations must be reviewed prior to
prescribing. Follow-up and genetic testing may be
appropriate later, but initial step is evidence review.
Q3. Informed consent in pediatric psychopharmacology
must include all EXCEPT: A. Discussion of treatment
benefits and potential side effects B. Explanation of
alternative non-pharmacologic interventions C.
Assurance that the medication has no risks in children D.
Involvement of the patient and family in decision-making
Correct Answer: C Rationale: No medication is risk-free,
so assurance of no risks is incorrect. Options A, B, and D
are essential components of informed consent.
Q4. Which guiding principle emphasizes interprofessional
collaboration when prescribing psychotropics? A.
Integrated care models B. Monotherapy preference C.
Generic substitution D. Rapid dose escalation
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Integrated care models
promote collaboration among providers. Monotherapy,
,generic substitution, and rapid escalation are not about
team-based care.
Q5. The third edition of Pediatric Psychopharmacology
for Primary Care introduced updates in: A.
Neurodevelopmental side effect monitoring guidelines B.
Cardiovascular risk recommendations only C. Cost-
analysis of branded medications D. Non-pharmacologic
therapy exclusion criteria
Correct Answer: A Rationale: The third edition added
neurodevelopmental monitoring guidance. The other
options are not updated sections.
Q6. Which additional guiding principle focuses on
ensuring continuity of care when initiating psychotropics?
A. Selecting medications with a long half-life B.
Establishing clear follow-up plans C. Preferring injectable
formulations D. Avoiding communication with schools
Correct Answer: B Rationale: Establishing clear follow-up
plans supports monitoring and continuity. Half-life
,selection, injectable use, and school communication
avoidance do not address continuity.
Q7. The organization and overview section of Chapter 1
highlights that the book’s structure is divided into: A.
Four parts corresponding to developmental stages B.
Pharmacokinetics only C. Before Prescribing, Specific
Disorders, Special Populations, and Resources D.
Alternative medicine approaches
Correct Answer: C Rationale: Part 1 is Before Prescribing;
subsequent parts cover disorders, populations, and
resources. The other options misstate the structure.
Q8. In pediatric psychopharmacology, efficacy refers to:
A. Safety profile in adults B. The ability of a medication to
produce the desired therapeutic effect C. Cost-
effectiveness compared to other treatments D. Ease of
generic substitution
Correct Answer: B Rationale: Efficacy is about therapeutic
benefit. Safety, cost, and substitution concerns are
separate considerations.
,Q9. Which of the following is NOT a core prescribing
principle outlined in Chapter 1? A. Start low, go slow B.
Use highest tolerable dose initially C. Monitor regularly
for adverse effects D. Educate patient/family thoroughly
Correct Answer: B Rationale: High initial dosing
contradicts “start low, go slow.” Monitoring and
education are core principles.
Q10. A key safety consideration before prescribing
psychotropics is to: A. Confirm growth chart norms and
baseline labs B. Prescribe based solely on adult dosing C.
Avoid discussing risks with parents D. Use medication
samples without documentation
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Baseline growth and labs
allow monitoring for medication effects. Adult dosing,
risk omission, and undocumented samples compromise
safety.
Q11. Family education should include: A. Expected onset
of therapeutic benefits B. Selection of the most expensive
,therapy C. Guarantee of symptom resolution D.
Instructions to stop medication without consultation
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Counseling on onset helps
set realistic expectations. Costs, guarantees, and
unsupervised cessation are inappropriate.
Q12. The role of psychotropic medications in integrated
care is to: A. Replace all behavioral interventions B.
Complement psychotherapy and support services C.
Serve only as a last resort after hospitalization D. Be
managed exclusively by psychiatrists
Correct Answer: B Rationale: Medications complement,
not replace, psychosocial therapies. They can be used
early in integrated models and managed by primary care
in collaboration.
Q13. Which update in the third edition emphasizes new
safety monitoring guidelines? A. Routine EKG screening
for antipsychotic use B. Elimination of all baseline labs C.
Annual bone density scans for SSRI use D. Dietary
restrictions for stimulant medications
,Correct Answer: A Rationale: EKG screening was added
for metabolic risk monitoring with antipsychotics. The
other options are not new updates.
Q14. When obtaining informed consent, the provider
must discuss: A. Common and rare adverse effects B.
Only the common effects to avoid alarming families C.
Future experimentation with unapproved drugs D.
Medication cost without benefit discussion
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Comprehensive consent
covers both common and rare effects. Omitting rare
effects or benefit discussion is incomplete; experimental
use is unethical.
Q15. An example of a safety measure before prescribing
is: A. Checking for family history of metabolic syndrome
B. Allowing unsupervised dosing at home C. Ignoring
hydration status D. Skipping weight monitoring
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Family metabolic history
informs antipsychotic risk. Unsupervised dosing,
, hydration neglect, and omitting weight checks impair
safety.
Q16. Which principle underscores the importance of
cultural sensitivity in prescribing? A. Tailoring
communication to patient/family beliefs B. Prescribing
only generic drugs C. Avoiding discussion of culture D.
Applying a one-size-fits-all approach
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Cultural sensitivity improves
adherence and understanding. The other options ignore
patient values.
Q17. The “Organization and Overview” explains that
Part 1 addresses: A. Pre-prescribing evaluation and
principles B. Management of acute psychosis C. Specialty
referrals only D. Educational toolkits for schools
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Part 1 covers before
prescribing; other topics are in later sections.
Guiding Psychopharmacology Principles;
Additional Guiding Principles; Organization and
1 Getting Started
Overview; Selected Changes and Updates in Third
Edition
Rationale for the Conceptual Framework; Group 1
Conceptual Framework for
Medications for ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression;
2 Prescribing Psychotropic
Group 2 Medications; Group 3 Medications;
Medications
References
Overview; Diagnosis of Common Disorders
(ADHD, Anxiety, Depression); Diagnosis of
Common Comorbidities; Recognizing Other
3 Making a Diagnosis
Psychiatric Disorders; Determine if Medication Is
Indicated; Recognize Need for Referral;
References
Formulation; Feedback; Nonmedication
Interventions; Informed Consent; Specific
Consent Issues; Off-label Prescribing; FDA
4 Laying the Groundwork
Boxed Warnings; Triage for Psychiatric and
Social Emergencies; Important Considerations for
Safe and Effective Prescribing; References
Group 1 Medications for General Guidance; Methylphenidate;
5 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Amphetamine; Guanfacine; Clonidine;
Disorder Atomoxetine; Viloxazine; Summary; References
General Guidance; SSRIs;
Group 1 Medications for Anxiety
6 Serotonin-Noradrenergic Reuptake Inhibitor
and Depression
(Duloxetine); Summary; References
Group 2 Medications:
Rationale; Antipsychotics; The Mood Stabilizer
7 FDA-Approved Antipsychotics
Lithium; Summary; References
and Mood Stabilizers
Other Antidepressants; Other Antipsychotics;
Group 3 Medications: Others
8 Other Mood Stabilizers; Anxiolytics; Sleep Aids;
Commonly Prescribed
Future Considerations; References
Reevaluate Therapies; Reevaluate Medication;
Discontinuing Group 1 Medications; Switching
Group 1 Medications; When to Consider Group 2
9 Fine Tuning Treatment or Lithium; When to Consider Group 3
(Off-label); Drug Levels or Genetic Testing; Can
Genotyping Improve Response?; Consultation or
Second Opinion; References
Reassess Diagnoses; Complex Psychosocial
10 Managing Treatment Impasses Presentations; Expert Consultation or Referral;
References
,Chapter 1.
Q1. Which of the following best describes the principle
“start low, go slow” in pediatric psychopharmacology? A.
Initiating therapy at lower doses and increasing gradually
based on response and tolerability B. Starting with the
maximum recommended dose to achieve rapid symptom
control C. Beginning with adjunctive therapy only after
monotherapy fails D. Using the lowest-cost medication
first regardless of dose recommendations
Correct Answer: A Rationale: The “start low, go slow”
principle emphasizes initiating at low doses and titrating
gradually for safety and tolerability. Options B, C, and D
do not reflect this dose-titration approach.
Q2. Before prescribing a psychotropic medication to a
child, a primary care provider should first: A. Review
efficacy and safety data specific to pediatric populations
B. Obtain a generic version of the medication C. Schedule
a follow-up visit within one month D. Order genetic
testing for all patients
,Correct Answer: A Rationale: Safety and efficacy data in
pediatric populations must be reviewed prior to
prescribing. Follow-up and genetic testing may be
appropriate later, but initial step is evidence review.
Q3. Informed consent in pediatric psychopharmacology
must include all EXCEPT: A. Discussion of treatment
benefits and potential side effects B. Explanation of
alternative non-pharmacologic interventions C.
Assurance that the medication has no risks in children D.
Involvement of the patient and family in decision-making
Correct Answer: C Rationale: No medication is risk-free,
so assurance of no risks is incorrect. Options A, B, and D
are essential components of informed consent.
Q4. Which guiding principle emphasizes interprofessional
collaboration when prescribing psychotropics? A.
Integrated care models B. Monotherapy preference C.
Generic substitution D. Rapid dose escalation
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Integrated care models
promote collaboration among providers. Monotherapy,
,generic substitution, and rapid escalation are not about
team-based care.
Q5. The third edition of Pediatric Psychopharmacology
for Primary Care introduced updates in: A.
Neurodevelopmental side effect monitoring guidelines B.
Cardiovascular risk recommendations only C. Cost-
analysis of branded medications D. Non-pharmacologic
therapy exclusion criteria
Correct Answer: A Rationale: The third edition added
neurodevelopmental monitoring guidance. The other
options are not updated sections.
Q6. Which additional guiding principle focuses on
ensuring continuity of care when initiating psychotropics?
A. Selecting medications with a long half-life B.
Establishing clear follow-up plans C. Preferring injectable
formulations D. Avoiding communication with schools
Correct Answer: B Rationale: Establishing clear follow-up
plans supports monitoring and continuity. Half-life
,selection, injectable use, and school communication
avoidance do not address continuity.
Q7. The organization and overview section of Chapter 1
highlights that the book’s structure is divided into: A.
Four parts corresponding to developmental stages B.
Pharmacokinetics only C. Before Prescribing, Specific
Disorders, Special Populations, and Resources D.
Alternative medicine approaches
Correct Answer: C Rationale: Part 1 is Before Prescribing;
subsequent parts cover disorders, populations, and
resources. The other options misstate the structure.
Q8. In pediatric psychopharmacology, efficacy refers to:
A. Safety profile in adults B. The ability of a medication to
produce the desired therapeutic effect C. Cost-
effectiveness compared to other treatments D. Ease of
generic substitution
Correct Answer: B Rationale: Efficacy is about therapeutic
benefit. Safety, cost, and substitution concerns are
separate considerations.
,Q9. Which of the following is NOT a core prescribing
principle outlined in Chapter 1? A. Start low, go slow B.
Use highest tolerable dose initially C. Monitor regularly
for adverse effects D. Educate patient/family thoroughly
Correct Answer: B Rationale: High initial dosing
contradicts “start low, go slow.” Monitoring and
education are core principles.
Q10. A key safety consideration before prescribing
psychotropics is to: A. Confirm growth chart norms and
baseline labs B. Prescribe based solely on adult dosing C.
Avoid discussing risks with parents D. Use medication
samples without documentation
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Baseline growth and labs
allow monitoring for medication effects. Adult dosing,
risk omission, and undocumented samples compromise
safety.
Q11. Family education should include: A. Expected onset
of therapeutic benefits B. Selection of the most expensive
,therapy C. Guarantee of symptom resolution D.
Instructions to stop medication without consultation
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Counseling on onset helps
set realistic expectations. Costs, guarantees, and
unsupervised cessation are inappropriate.
Q12. The role of psychotropic medications in integrated
care is to: A. Replace all behavioral interventions B.
Complement psychotherapy and support services C.
Serve only as a last resort after hospitalization D. Be
managed exclusively by psychiatrists
Correct Answer: B Rationale: Medications complement,
not replace, psychosocial therapies. They can be used
early in integrated models and managed by primary care
in collaboration.
Q13. Which update in the third edition emphasizes new
safety monitoring guidelines? A. Routine EKG screening
for antipsychotic use B. Elimination of all baseline labs C.
Annual bone density scans for SSRI use D. Dietary
restrictions for stimulant medications
,Correct Answer: A Rationale: EKG screening was added
for metabolic risk monitoring with antipsychotics. The
other options are not new updates.
Q14. When obtaining informed consent, the provider
must discuss: A. Common and rare adverse effects B.
Only the common effects to avoid alarming families C.
Future experimentation with unapproved drugs D.
Medication cost without benefit discussion
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Comprehensive consent
covers both common and rare effects. Omitting rare
effects or benefit discussion is incomplete; experimental
use is unethical.
Q15. An example of a safety measure before prescribing
is: A. Checking for family history of metabolic syndrome
B. Allowing unsupervised dosing at home C. Ignoring
hydration status D. Skipping weight monitoring
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Family metabolic history
informs antipsychotic risk. Unsupervised dosing,
, hydration neglect, and omitting weight checks impair
safety.
Q16. Which principle underscores the importance of
cultural sensitivity in prescribing? A. Tailoring
communication to patient/family beliefs B. Prescribing
only generic drugs C. Avoiding discussion of culture D.
Applying a one-size-fits-all approach
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Cultural sensitivity improves
adherence and understanding. The other options ignore
patient values.
Q17. The “Organization and Overview” explains that
Part 1 addresses: A. Pre-prescribing evaluation and
principles B. Management of acute psychosis C. Specialty
referrals only D. Educational toolkits for schools
Correct Answer: A Rationale: Part 1 covers before
prescribing; other topics are in later sections.
