Alprazolam (Xanax) is prescribed for an adult with panic attacks. The nurse recognizes that this drug exerts its therapeutic effect by interacting with which neurotransmitter?
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
Norepinephrine
Acetylcholine
Serotonin (5-HT)
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: Alprazolam (Xanax) exerts its therapeutic effect by interacting with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, leading to anxiolytic and sedative effects.
Choice B rationale: Norepinephrine is not the primary neurotransmitter affected by alprazolam.
Choice C rationale: Acetylcholine is not the primary neurotransmitter affected by alprazolam.
Choice D rationale: Serotonin (5-HT) is not the primary neurotransmitter affected by alprazolam.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Disorientation and hallucinations are not common side effects of fluoxetine. These symptoms may indicate other issues and should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale: Sexual side effects, including a potential decrease in interest in sex, are known side effects of fluoxetine. The statement suggesting enhanced interest is not accurate.
Choice C rationale: Fluoxetine, like other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may take 3 to 4 weeks or even longer for the full therapeutic effect to be achieved.
Choice D rationale: Abruptly stopping fluoxetine is not recommended and can lead to withdrawal symptoms. The medication should be tapered under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Loquaciousness, altered judgment, and euphoria are not typical findings of a disulfiram reaction.
Choice B rationale: Confusion, nystagmus, and abnormal eye movements are not typical findings of a disulfiram reaction.
Choice C rationale: Cramps, hallucinations, and intense tremors are not typical findings of a disulfiram reaction.
Choice D rationale: This is correct. Nausea, copious vomiting, flushing, and headache are classic symptoms of a disulfiram reaction (acetaldehyde syndrome) when alcohol is consumed while taking disulfiram (Antabuse).
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