Question 1

You are treating another patient with depression, but after taking a thorough history, you learn that she has had an eating disorder and a seizure disorder in the past. Which medication would not be a good choice?

Accepted Answer

Welbutrin (bupropion) is not a good choice for patients with a history of seizure disorders, as it can lower the seizure threshold and increase the risk of seizures.

Question 2

You have started working with a new patient who presents with severe depression, low energy and motivation. She is also 40 pounds overweight. Her primary care physician would like to know if you know of any medication possibilities. You might consider all of the medications below except:

Accepted Answer

Remeron (mirtazapine) is known to potentially increase appetite and lead to weight gain, which might not be suitable for a patient who is already overweight.

Question 3

According to Sinacola and Peters-Strickland, which of the following "holistic/herbal" remedies shows the greatest efficacy in reducing depression?

Accepted Answer

The answer of According to Sinacola and Peters-Strickland, which of...

Question 4

"Serotonin syndrome" includes all of the following symptoms except:

Accepted Answer

The answer of "Serotonin syndrome" includes all of the following...

Question 5

Exercise is an excellent idea for depressed patients as it increases levels of:

Accepted Answer

Exercise has been shown to increase levels of phenylethylamine (PEA), which is a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and feelings of happiness. Higher levels of PEA can help alleviate symptoms of depression. The other answer choices are not accurate in describing the effects of exercise on the body.

Question 6

A typical daily dose of Prozac or Paxil is:

Accepted Answer

The typical daily dose for Prozac (fluoxetine) and Paxil (paroxetine) is usually in the range of 20-40 mg.

Question 7

Which of the following are not typically used for depressed/pain management patients?

Accepted Answer

Luvox is primarily used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) rather than depression or pain management.

Question 8

As a rule, all antidepressants take about ____ days to begin working.

Accepted Answer

Antidepressants typically take about 14 days or more to begin showing noticeable effects, although full benefits may take several weeks.

Question 9

You are working with a patient with OCD. Which of the following medications is not considered an anti-obsessive?

Accepted Answer

Wellbutrin is not considered an anti-obsessive medication, but it is sometimes used to augment the effects of an anti-obsessive medication. Prozac, Anafranil, and Luvox are all considered anti-obsessive medications and are commonly prescribed to treat OCD.

Question 10

You are working with a patient who has responded well to antidepressants in the past, and has had only a moderate response to SSRIs. Aside from increasing the dose, you might also suggest:

Accepted Answer

The answer of You are working with a patient who...

Quiz 4: History Taking and Assessment Techniques