Psychopharmacology has changed the face of modern psychiatry.
Yet it is rare to find in the literature such a deeply informative yet eminently
practical manual on this complex subject. Here, three senior
psychopharmacologists offer a unique clinical perspective and practical advice
on applying psychotropic medications to the treatment of specific psychiatric
conditions. Clearly written in a collegial, narrative style for easy reading and
comprehension, the fourth edition of this bestselling manual offers extensively
updated chapters with new sections and summary tables for quick reference,
including the latest information on antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood
stabilizers, antianxiety agents, hypnotics, and stimulants. This comprehensive
clinical guide emphasizes practical advice—i.e., specific recommendations about
dosing, titration, and combining medications—derived from the authors’ extensive
clinical experience. It begins with general principles of psychopharmacological
treatment, including advice on legal, ethical, and economic issues. Subsequent
chapters cover past, current, and future treatments for all major classes of
medications, including mechanisms of action and pharmacokinetics. It also
features chapters on augmentation strategies for treatment resistant disorders,
emergency room treatment, pharmacotherapy for substance use disorders, and
special topics such as pregnancy and mental retardation, with a fascinating
final chapter on herbals and dietary supplements. This up-to-date, practical
manual will be warmly welcomed by not only practitioners, but also students
(including those in nursing and pharmacy) and psychopharmacology residents.