A client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder is prescribed a tricyclic antidepressant, Doxepin (Sinequan). Which statement indicates that the client understands the actions of this medication?

Question

1. "I'm glad to have a medication that will take away my anxiety right away."
2. "I'm glad the health care provider has ordered a medication that won't produce side effects."
3. "I need to be careful not to take Sinequan for a long period, due to the possibility of drug dependency."
4. "I might need to suck on sugar-free hard candy for my dry mouth."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: It takes several weeks for antidepressants to yield significant improvement in condition.
Rationale 2: Tricyclic antidepressants often have annoying anticholinergic effects.
Rationale 3: Tricyclic antidepressants do not cause dependence; however, as with any antipsychotic medication, it should be tapered before discontinuing entirely.
Rationale 4: Dry mouth is a common anticholinergic effect that is treated with increased fluid intake and sucking on sugar-free hard candy.
Global Rationale: Dry mouth is a common anticholinergic effect that is treated with increased fluid intake and sucking on sugar-free hard candy. It takes several weeks for antidepressants to yield significant improvement in condition. Tricyclic antidepressants often have annoying anticholinergic effects. Tricyclic antidepressants do not cause dependence; however, as with any antipsychotic medication, it should be tapered before discontinuing entirely.