RXPP 6330/6220: Treatment of Bipolar & Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders | via NMSU
(13.5 Hours)
ONLINE

First Day Objectives:
1. Describe the mechanism of action of five psychotropic medications (e.g. Lithium, Valproate, Lamotrigine, Second Generation Antipsychotics and Benzodiazepines) in treating bipolar disorder.
2. Describe the mechanism of action of the two adjunctive mood stabilizers Gabapentin and Oxcarbazepine.
3. Explain at least two genetic predisposing factors for the development of bipolar disorder.
4. Select the most appropriate psychotropic medications for bipolar disorders considering the effect and the side effect profile of each drug for two patients whose cases will be presented.
5. Accurately evaluate one serum level each for Lithium, Carbamazepine and Depakote to determine the safety of patient’s current regimen of medication.
6. List four factors which contribute to poor response to mood stabilizers in the treatment of bipolar disorder.
7. List three pathological syndromes commonly mistaken for bipolar disorder.
8. Explain the three most important psychotherapeutic goals in assisting patients in managing their bipolar disorder.

Second Day Objectives:
1. Describe at least two neuroanatomical changes that contribute to the development of PTSD.
2. Explain the role of at least four features of the sympathetic nervous system and the three neuroendocrine (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis; HPA) components in the development and maintenance of the symptoms of PTSD.
3. Distinguish 1 difference between the negative and positive feedback loop of the HPA axis.
4. Explain of the mechanisms of actions of the at least one Alpha and one Beta Antagonist used in treatment of PTSD.
5. Select the most appropriate psychotropic medications for the treatment of PTSD symptoms in two of the presented cases of individuals experiencing PTSD symptoms.
6. Name two classes of drugs that are not recommended in the treatment of PTSD symptoms.
7. List two common co-morbid conditions with PTSD and explain how treatment of the comorbid conditions may complicate the treatment of PTSD symptoms.
8. Develop one sample treatment plan for a patient, presented as a case example that is comprehensive and is based on the evidence that shows components of treatment that are most effective.
9. List two important factors that distinguish PTSD from other anxiety disorders Learning Objectives