Why are antianxiety medications used cautiously in older adults?

Choice A rationale
Paroxetine (Paxil) is an SSRI used for the treatment of panic disorder. It can be taken with or without food. Taking it at bedtime can help manage some side effects like nausea and drowsiness.
Choice B rationale
Combining herbal medication with paroxetine is not recommended without consulting a healthcare provider. Some herbal supplements can interact with paroxetine and cause serious conditions like serotonin syndrome.
Choice C rationale
Weight changes are a possible side effect of paroxetine. Therefore, monitoring for weight changes while taking this medication is important.
Choice D rationale
It’s important to note that it can take several weeks before the patient feels like the medication is helping. This is a normal part of the process and patients should be encouraged to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if they don’t feel immediate relief.

Choice A rationale
Guaifenesin (Mucinex) is an expectorant, which means it helps loosen mucus in your airways. This makes it easier for you to cough up phlegm. So, coughing up phlegm after taking Mucinex does not necessarily mean there is more pathology present.
Choice B rationale
Coughing up phlegm is not typically indicative of an allergic reaction to Mucinex. Allergic reactions would more likely involve symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Choice C rationale

While any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider, coughing up phlegm after taking Mucinex does not necessarily require further investigation. It is a normal response to the medication, which is designed to help clear mucus from the airways.
Choice D rationale
Guaifenesin (Mucinex) works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier. Therefore, coughing up phlegm is a normal response to the medication.