You are doing patient teaching for Margaret, who has been prescribed amitriptyline (Elavil) for treatment of depression. Which of the following statements suggests that Margaret needs further instruction?
A.
"I know I might not start feeling better for a few weeks, but I'll keep taking the medication just as the doctor prescribed."
B.
"I'll keep some hard candies in my purse in case my mouth gets dry from the medicine."
C.
"Once I start feeling better, I'm looking forward to cutting down on this medication."
D.
"I'm worried I may gain some weight, but that's a small price to pay for feeling better."
ANS: C
Antidepressants need to be taken consistently, including when the patient starts feeling better. Tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline can cause dry mouth.
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