Age Specific Populations Related

Review Age Specific Populations related questions and content

A patient tells the nurse, "My doctor prescribed Paxil (paroxetine) for my depression. I assume I'll have side effects like I had when I was taking Tofranil (imipramine)." The nurse's reply should be based on the knowledge that paroxetine is a:

  • A. Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor.
  • B. Tricyclic antidepressant.
  • C. MAO inhibitor.
  • D. SSRI
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: SSRI. Paroxetine belongs to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which work by primarily increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. This mechanism differs from tricyclic antidepressants like Tofranil (imipramine) and MAO inhibitors. SSRIs are known for having fewer side effects compared to tricyclic antidepressants and MAO inhibitors. Therefore, the nurse should inform the patient that the side effects experienced with Tofranil are not necessarily indicative of what they will experience with Paxil due to the different drug classes.