A client who has been taking fluoxetine (Prozac) for several weeks reports that they are not feeling any better and asks the nurse why this is happening.Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?
“It takes several weeks for antidepressants to start working.”
“You need to increase your dosage.”
“You need to stop taking your medication immediately.”
“Antidepressants do not work for everyone.”
The Correct Answer is A
This is because antidepressants like fluoxetine (Prozac) work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite. However, serotonin levels do not change immediately after taking the medication, and it may take up to 4 to 6 weeks for the full benefits of the drug to occur.
Choice B. “You need to increase your dosage.” is wrong because increasing the dosage of fluoxetine without consulting a health care provider can cause serious side effects, such as serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there is too much serotonin in the body.
Choice C. “You need to stop taking your medication immediately.” is wrong because stopping fluoxetine abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, headache, dizziness, and anxiety. Fluoxetine should be tapered off gradually under the guidance of a health care provider.
Choice D. “Antidepressants do not work for everyone.” is wrong because although antidepressants may not be effective for some people, it is too early to conclude that fluoxetine is not working for this client after only several weeks of treatment. The client should continue taking the medication as prescribed and report any concerns or side effects to the health care provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Citalopram (Celexa) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that can cause insomnia as a side effect.Taking the medication in the morning can help reduce this effect and improve the client’s sleep quality.
Choice B is wrong because the client should not stop taking citalopram abruptly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, and irritability.
The client should consult with the provider before discontinuing any medication.
Choice C is wrong because taking citalopram at night can worsen the insomnia and interfere with the client’s rest and recovery.
Choice D is wrong because taking citalopram with food does not affect its absorption or efficacy. The client can take citalopram with or without food according to their preference.
Normal ranges for citalopram are 20 to 40 mg per day for adults.The therapeutic plasma level is 40 to 120 ng/mL.
The client should have regular blood tests to monitor the drug level and avoid toxicity.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
• Venlafaxine (Effexor) is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that can causeorthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure when changing positions.Therefore, the client shouldchange positions slowlyto prevent dizziness or fainting.
• Venlafaxine (Effexor) can also increase the risk ofbleedingwhen combined with alcohol or other drugs that affect blood clotting.Therefore, the client shouldavoid alcoholwhile taking this medication.
• Venlafaxine (Effexor) can causenausea, especially when taken on an empty stomach.Therefore, the client shouldtake it with foodto reduce this adverse effect.
• Venlafaxine (Effexor) comes in both immediate-release and extended-release forms.
The extended-release tablets are designed to release the drug slowly over time and should not be altered.Therefore, the client shouldnot crush or chew extended-release tabletsas this can affect the drug’s absorption and effectiveness.
Choice E is wrong because taking venlafaxine (Effexor) at bedtime can causeinsomniadue to its stimulating effects on the central nervous system.Therefore, the client should take it in the morning or early afternoon.
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