Maryville University NURS 615:NURS 615 Pharmacology Quick Memory Sheet 2026

NURS 615 Pharmacology Quick Memory
Sheet
Psych Meds • Seizure Drugs • Antimicrobials


1. Psych Medications
Benzodiazepines
Examples: clonazepam, lorazepam, diazepam, alprazolam

Mechanism

 Enhance GABA → CNS depression

Uses

 Anxiety
 Panic disorder
 Seizures
 Alcohol withdrawal
 Acute agitation

Key Exam Points



Avoid alcohol ⚠️
Risk of dependence and tolerance
 Can cause respiratory depression
 Taper slowly to avoid withdrawal seizures

Adverse Effects

 Sedation
 Memory impairment
 Falls (elderly)

, SSRIs
Examples: sertraline, fluoxetine, escitalopram, paroxetine

Mechanism

 Block serotonin reuptake

Uses

 Depression
 Anxiety disorders
 OCD
 PTSD

High-Yield Facts

 First-line antidepressants
 Take 4–6 weeks for full effect
 Black Box Warning: suicidality <24 years

Adverse Effects

 Sexual dysfunction
 GI upset
 Insomnia
 Serotonin syndrome




Serotonin Syndrome
Classic triad

1️⃣ Mental status changes
2️⃣ Autonomic instability
3️⃣ Neuromuscular hyperactivity

Symptoms:

 Hyperthermia
 Tremor
 Diarrhea
 Agitation
 Clonus