Tag: bipolar

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Lamotrigine Pharmacology

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On this episode of the Real Life Pharmacology podcast, I discuss the ins and outs of lamotrigine pharmacology.

Lamotrigine has a very slow dose titration schedule due to the risk of drug induced rash.

Sedation, GI upset, and CNS changes are the most common adverse effects associated with lamotrigine.

Lamotrigine concentrations can be increased by valproic acid, so we tend to use lower starting doses.

Phenytoin and carbamazepine can lower concentrations of lamotrigine.

I discuss important drug interactions on the podcast, be sure to check out my latest project which is a 200+ page book on managing drug interactions in primary care.

Be sure to check out our free Top 200 study guide – a 31 page PDF that is yours for FREE!

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Olanzapine Pharmacology

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Olanzapine is a 2nd generation antipsychotic that blocks dopamine-2 receptors.

Olanzapine Relprevv (long acting injectable) needs to be closely monitored after the injection is given due to risks of sedation and delirium.

Sedation is a common occurance with the use of olanzapine. It is one of the more sedating second generation antipsychotics.

Weight gain, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia are all potential adverse effects with olanzapine.

Be sure to check out our free Top 200 study guide – a 31 page PDF that is yours for FREE!

I discuss important drug interactions on the podcast, be sure to check out my latest project which is a 200+ page book on managing drug interactions in primary care.

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Carbamazepine Pharmacology

Carbamazapine Pharmacology

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On this episode, I discuss carbamazepine pharmacology. This drug is most commonly used for seizures, bipolar disorder, or trigeminal neuralgia.

Carbamazepine is an autoinducer and can reduce the concentrations of numerous drugs. Some examples include apixaban, warfarin, rivaroxaban, diltiazem, verapamil, and many more!

Carbamazepine has the potential to cause Steven Johnson’s Syndrome. This has a much greater chance of happening in patients with certain genetics.

Carbamazepine can contribute to SIADH and cause significant hyponatremia.

Carbamazepine has boxed warning for numerous potential events like aplastic anemia, agranulocytosis, and the above-mentioned SJS.

Be sure to check out our free Top 200 study guide – a 31 page PDF that is yours for FREE!

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Valproate Pharmacology

Valproate Pharmacology

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Valproate (valproic acid, Depakote) has numerous uses which includes migraines, seizures, and bipolar disorder.

In a patient who is taking valproate, it is important to monitor for signs and symptoms of confusion as this drug can cause elevated ammonia levels.

When switching between dosage forms of valproate, you must recognize that the bioavailability is not the same between each different dosage form. This could lead to toxicity or treatment failure.

Valproic acid has a boxed warning for hepatotoxicity and liver function needs to be monitored.

Valproic acid can increase lamotrigine levels which ultimately could lead to an increased risk of lamotrigine induced SJS.

Be sure to check out our free Top 200 study guide – a 31 page PDF that is yours for FREE!