A patient has been taking paroxetine (Paxil) 20 mg per day for 2 ...

[ts19998]

A patient has been taking paroxetine (Paxil) 20 mg per day for 2 weeks and reports headaches, nervousness, and poor appetite. Which action will the nurse take?
 
  a. Counsel the patient to take the medication with food.
  b. Reassure the patient that these side effects will decrease over time.
  c. Suggest that the patient discuss a lower dose with the provider.
  d. Tell the patient to stop taking the drug and contact the provider.

Question 2

A patient who has been diagnosed with social anxiety disorder will begin taking venlafaxine (Effexor). The nurse who performs a medication and dietary history will be concerned about ingestion of which substance or drug?
 
  a. Coffee
  b. Grapefruit juice
  c. Oral hypoglycemic drug
  d. St. John's wort

[fraziera112]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
These are common side effects of SSRIs and will subside over time. Taking the medication with food will not affect these side effects. Lowering the dose is not indicated. Patients should not abruptly stop taking SSRIs.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
The concurrent interaction of venlafaxine and St. John's wort may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Oral hypoglycemic drugs are concerning for patients who take lithium. Coffee and grapefruit juice is to be avoided by patients who take monoamine oxidase inhibitors

[ts19998]

Thank you!

[fraziera112]

Always glad to help...