A nurse teaches an older adult about the antidepressant medication recently prescribed. Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching? (Select all that apply.)

Question

A) Antidepressants can interact with alcohol and over-the-counter medications.
B) Depression is uncommon in the older adult population.
C) Expect adverse effects of the medicine; stop medication if they occur.
D) Don't expect immediate improvement; a fair trial may take up to 12 weeks.
E) The medication is to be taken only as needed.

Answer 1

Ans: A, D
Immediate improvement will not be evident, but a fair trial must be given to the medication as long as serious adverse effects are not noticed. The fair trial may take as long as 12 weeks, but some positive effects should be noticed within 2 to 4 weeks. Antidepressants can interact with alcohol, nicotine, and other medications, including over-the-counter medications, possibly altering the effects of the medication or increasing the potential for adverse effects. Depression is common in older adults, it's treatable, if the client sticks to the treatment plan and takes medication daily (not PRN). Medication should not be stopped without consulting the primary health care provider.