Author Question: A client is taking fluoxetine (Prozac) and wonders if adding St. John's wort would help. Knowing ... (Read 111 times)

tiara099 · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A client is taking fluoxetine (Prozac) and wonders if adding St. John's wort would help. Knowing that St.

John's wort acts similar to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the nurse is concerned that by taking both, the client may develop: 1. Nothing since these substances do not interact.
2. Serotonin syndrome.
3. Mania.
4. Depression.

Question 2

The nurse is assessing a male client who is suspected of having an eating disorder. What additional information should the nurse include in her assessment of this client?

1. Use of anabolic steroids
2. Relationship with family
3. Ethnic origin
4. History of illegal substance use

KKcool · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

2
Rationale: SSRIs should not be combined with St. John's wort. Too much serotonin presents a risk for serotonin syndrome. St. John's wort is stipulated for use as a treatment of depressive symptoms, not mania. There is indeed concern, SSRIs should not be taken with St. John's wort.

Answer to Question 2

1
Rationale: It is common to see males with eating disorders use anabolic steroids to improve muscle tone and build strength. Ethnic origin, family relationships, and illegal substance use are not as commonly assessed.