Learning | Mental health

Learning

Antidepressant use during breastfeeding

Recognising the symptoms of postnatal depression, which occurs in 10–15% women following childbirth, and selecting the most appropriate antidepressant.…

Published: 19 September 2015

Learning

Tranquillisation of patients with aggressive or challenging behaviour

Although never the first option, rapid tranquillisation may be required to ensure patient and staff safety when a patient exhibits violent behaviour.…

Published: 17 June 2015

Learning

How clozapine patients can be monitored safely and effectively

Patients who are taking clozapine require ongoing monitoring because of the risk of serious blood dyscrasias. What should pharmacists be checking before they dispense the medicine?…

Published: 10 June 2014

Learning

After 30 years, clozapine is still best for treatment-resistant patients

There is still “fear” among some clinicians about prescribing clozapine for patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Jenny Bryan takes a look at the drug’s history…

Published: 18 January 2014

Learning

Antidepressant choice for patients with epilepsy

Depression is increased in people with epilepsy, with a lifetime prevalence of about 30%. Patients with epilepsy are three times more likely to be prescribed an antidepressant than the general population and twice as likely to report suicidal thoughts.…

Published: 1 January 2012

Learning

Schizophrenia: clinical features and diagnosis

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health condition characterised by a distortion of perceptions and thinking. It is thought to be caused by a combination of biological, social and psychological factors.…

Published: 1 February 2011

Learning

Delirium: a guide to a common condition

Delirium is not a benign condition — its presence predicts significantly increased morbidity and mortality, often in already vulnerable patient groups. Mark Borthwick and Nina Barnett give an overview of delirium, its prevention, detection and treatment, highlight the latest NICE guidance, and sug…

Published: 7 August 2010

Learning

Treatments for patients with schizophrenia

Stephen Bleakley and Marion Wetherill give an overview of current treatment options and guidelines for schizophrenia.…

Published: 25 July 2009

Learning

The management of depression

In Western Europe depression affects between 5 and 10 per cent of the population and it is currently ranked as the third leading contributor to the global burden of disease. Stephen Bleakley gives an overview of the condition and its treatment.…

Published: 1 March 2009