Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing 8th Edition - Neurobiologic Theories and Psychopharmacology Related

Review Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing 8th Edition - Neurobiologic Theories and Psychopharmacology related questions and content

A patient with depression has been taking paroxetine (Paxil) for the last 3 months and has noticed improvement of symptoms. Which of the following side effects would the nurse expect the patient to report?

  • A. A headache after eating wine and cheese
  • B. A decrease in sexual pleasure during intimacy
  • C. An intense need to move about
  • D. Persistent runny nose
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Sexual dysfunction is a common side effect of SSRIs like paroxetine due to enhanced serotonin transmission. Headaches from tyramine interactions are associated with MAOIs, not SSRIs. An intense need to move about is an extrapyramidal side effect of antipsychotics, and runny nose is not typical.