MSN 672 Psychopathopharmacology II at Northern Kentucky University

During smoking cessation, resensitized nicotinic receptors no longer receiving nicotine, and the individual experiences cravings due to an absence of dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens. What type of antidepressant medication may the PMHNP choose to assist with boosting dopamine in the nucleus accumbens to assist with the treatment of smoking cessation?

Which symptoms should be reported immediately due to severity in a 15-year-old patient prescribed valproate? Select all that apply.

------ and --------------, also known as α2δ ligands since they bind to the α2δ subunit of presynaptic N- and P/Q-type VSCCs, block the release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate that occurs when neurotransmission is excessive, as postulated in the amygdala to cause fear.

Empathogens produce an altered state of consciousness described as experiences of emotional communion, oneness, relatedness, and emotional openness. Using the options below, please select the prototype empathogen.

Which of the following neurotransmitters are considered part of the ascending reticular activating system in the brain that works together to regulate arousal? (Select all that apply.)

The PMHNP does patient education with a 24-year-old female who is prescribed a mood stabilizer. The PMHNP informed the patient that she could experience the following side effects: weight gain, hair loss, acne, tremor, sedation, decrease in kidney function, and hypothyroidism. What medication is the PMHNP most likely prescribing that is congruent with this side-effect profile?

A 44-year-old unemployed male with a 20-year debilitating history of alcoholism "heavy drinker" presents to the clinic. The patient has a history of Bipolar Disorder and is currently taking lithium. The patient has not experienced withdrawal; his longest period of sobriety recently has been one week. The patient fears that he may start drinking again due to “stress.” Which of the following medications below would be most appropriate for the PMHNP to prescribe for the treatment of alcoholism for this patient?

A 42-year-old police officer presents to the clinic with complaints of "sleep disturbances." After sufficient consultation, you prescribe the patient eszopiclone. Which receptors are primarily being targeted by this treatment, producing the desired effect of sedation?

A 35-year-old man Army veteran presents with a chief complaint of excessive crying, which he notes is often triggered by thoughts of dying prior to seeing his family again. His wife reports that he is often tense and “flies off the handle,” followed by episodes of difficulty breathing and increased heart rate. The patient’s symptom of difficulty breathing is related to activation of what part of the brain?