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.
Section I: Guiding Psychopharmacology Principles (Q1–
Q15)
Q1. Which of the following best describes the principle of
"start low, go slow" in pediatric psychopharmacology?
A. Initiate treatment at a standard adult dose and adjust
based on pediatric weight.
B. Begin with the lowest effective dose and titrate
gradually to minimize adverse effects.
C. Delay initiation of medication until behavioral
interventions are fully exhausted.
D. Prescribe multiple medications at low doses
simultaneously to reduce side effects.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The "start low, go slow" principle emphasizes
initiating therapy at the lowest effective dose and
titrating upward cautiously to minimize adverse effects
and assess tolerance.
Q2. Before prescribing a psychotropic medication to a
child, the provider should prioritize which safety
assessment?
A. Family history of psychotropic use.
, B. Baseline growth parameters and vital signs.
C. Parental preference for medication type.
D. School performance reports.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Baseline growth parameters and vital signs are
critical to monitor potential medication effects.
Q3. Integrated care models emphasize what?
A. Collaboration among primary care, mental health
specialists, and families.
B. Referral to psychiatry for all prescriptions.
C. Use of only non-pharmacologic interventions.
D. Medications without behavioral supports.
Correct Answer: A
Q4. Essential element of informed consent for
psychotropics?
A. Guarantee of symptom resolution.
B. Discussion of potential risks and benefits.
C. Exemption of off-label uses.
D. Assurance of no side effects.
Correct Answer: B
Q5. New metabolic monitoring guidance in 3rd edition
targets which class?