Preferred medications for selected psychiatric condition

This guide summarizes the preferred medications for various psychiatric conditions, useful for students preparing for the USMLE Step 1 exam. Understanding the primary treatment choices for each disorder aids in quick recall and clinical decision-making during exams.

Medications by Condition

Psychiatric Condition	Preferred Medications
ADHD	Stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamines)
Alcohol Withdrawal	Benzodiazepines (e.g., chlordiazepoxide, lorazepam, diazepam)
Bipolar Disorder	Lithium, valproic acid, carbamazepine, lamotrigine, atypical antipsychotics
Bulimia Nervosa	SSRIs
Depression	SSRIs
Generalized Anxiety Disorder	SSRIs, SNRIs
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder	SSRIs, venlafaxine, clomipramine
Panic Disorder	SSRIs, venlafaxine, benzodiazepines
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder	SSRIs, venlafaxine
Schizophrenia	Atypical antipsychotics
Social Anxiety Disorder	SSRIs, venlafaxine
Performance-only Social Anxiety	β-blockers, benzodiazepines
Tourette Syndrome	Antipsychotics (e.g., fluphenazine, risperidone), tetrabenazine

Important Points to Remember

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are first-line treatments for various mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, and PTSD.
Benzodiazepines are effective for acute relief in panic disorder and alcohol withdrawal but are generally reserved for short-term use due to the risk of dependence.
Atypical Antipsychotics are preferred in managing schizophrenia and as adjunctive therapy in bipolar disorder.
Stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines are the mainstay treatment for ADHD.
Lithium remains a key mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder, though close monitoring is required due to its narrow therapeutic index.
β-Blockers are primarily used for performance-only social anxiety to manage physical symptoms (e.g., tremors, palpitations).

Summary Table of Drug Classes by Indication

Drug Class	Primary Indications
SSRIs	Depression, GAD, OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, bulimia
Benzodiazepines	Alcohol withdrawal, panic disorder (acute), performance anxiety
Stimulants	ADHD
Atypical Antipsychotics	Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder
Mood Stabilizers	Bipolar disorder (Lithium, valproic acid, carbamazepine)
β-Blockers	Performance anxiety
Tetrabenazine	Tourette syndrome

Summary Table of Drug Classes by Indication

Key Takeaway for USMLE Step 1 Preparation

Knowing the primary drug classes and specific medications for psychiatric disorders, along with their major side effects and monitoring requirements, is essential for USMLE success.

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USMLE Step 1 Review Series

Curriculum

Preferred medications for selected psychiatric condition

Medications by Condition

Important Points to Remember

Summary Table of Drug Classes by Indication

Key Takeaway for USMLE Step 1 Preparation

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