A psychiatric NP is explaining to his patient the primary mechanism of action of Lithium in treating bipolar disorder. What does he mention as the key mechanism?

• It increases serotonin levels in the brain.

• It blocks dopamine receptors.

• It modulates sodium and potassium channels in neurons.

• It enhances GABAergic transmission.

Dr. Smith is reviewing medications for his patient with bipolar disorder. He wants to choose an anticonvulsant that is also commonly used as a mood stabilizer. Which of the following should he NOT consider?

• Valproate

• Lamotrigine

• Gabapentin

• Carbamazepine

John, who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, is being considered for medication. His psychiatrist is evaluating atypical antipsychotics but is concerned about a particular side effect. Which side effect is the psychiatrist most likely worried about?

• Hypothyroidism

• Weight loss

• Metabolic syndrome

• Decreased red blood cell count

Dr. Smith advises a patient with bipolar disorder that they will need to have their blood levels regularly monitored due to the medication's narrow therapeutic range. Which medication is likely being referred to?

• Lithium

• Valproate

• Lamotrigine

• Aripiprazole

John, who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, is prescribed Lamotrigine by his doctor. This medication is particularly effective for treating:

• Manic episodes

• Depressive episodes

• Psychotic symptoms

• Anxiety symptoms

John, a 45-year-old man, has recently been prescribed atypical antipsychotics for his condition. Which of the following side effects is he least likely to experience?

• Drowsiness

• Dry mouth

• Extrapyramidal symptoms

• Hypertension

John, who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and is using Valproate as a mood stabilizer, wonders if the same medication could help with another condition he suffers from. Which of the following conditions could Valproate also treat?

• Migraines

• Asthma

• Hypertension

• Diabetes

After several years of managing her bipolar disorder with lithium, Emily notices a new health issue. Which of the following could be a long-term side effect of her lithium use?

• Acne

• Renal dysfunction

• Hair loss

• Hyperthyroidism

Imagine John, who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, starts a new medication regimen including Lamotrigine. What is a common side effect he should be aware of?

• Rash

• Significant weight gain

• Severe constipation

• Increased appetite

What is the primary benefit of using atypical antipsychotics over traditional antipsychotics in the treatment of bipolar disorder?

• They are more effective in treating mania.

• They have a lower risk of causing tardive dyskinesia.

• They are less likely to cause weight gain.

• They do not require blood level monitoring.