Key Concepts
SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline) are first-line treatments for depression and anxiety with relatively mild side effect profiles
SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine, duloxetine) affect both serotonin and norepinephrine and are used for depression, anxiety, and chronic pain
Benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, lorazepam) provide rapid anxiety relief but carry risk of dependence and are generally intended for short-term use
Antipsychotics are divided into first-generation (typical) and second-generation (atypical), with atypicals having fewer extrapyramidal side effects
Mood stabilizers (lithium, valproic acid, lamotrigine) are primary treatments for bipolar disorder
Stimulants (methylphenidate, amphetamine salts) are first-line treatments for ADHD in children and adults
Non-prescribing clinicians should understand medication effects to collaborate with prescribers and identify when clients may need medication evaluation
Why This Matters for the Exam
Psychopharmacology questions appear on the ASWB Clinical exam and the NCMHCE. You do not need to know prescribing details, but you should understand the major medication classes, their general effects, common side effects, and when a referral for medication evaluation is appropriate. Exam questions may describe a client's medication and side effects and ask about the appropriate clinical response.
Study Tips
Focus on the major medication classes and their primary uses rather than memorizing specific drug names. Know the common side effects that clients might report (e.g., weight gain with atypical antipsychotics, sexual dysfunction with SSRIs). Understand when to refer a client for medication evaluation and how to support medication adherence in therapy. You do not need pharmacological depth on par with a prescriber.