Question

A nurse is teaching a client who is starting to take amitriptyline. Which of the following findings should the nurse include in the teaching as an adverse effect of the medication?

A. Weight loss
B. Constipation
C. Increased libido
D. Insomnia

Answer 1

Constipation is a common adverse effect of amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, and should be included in the teaching for a client starting this medication.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse teaching a client about the potential adverse effects of starting to take amitriptyline, which is a tricyclic antidepressant, should include constipation as one of the common side effects. Other common side effects of antidepressants can include weight gain, fatigue, dizziness, loss of sexual desire, nausea, dry mouth, blurred vision, agitation, and insomnia. It is important for patients to have access to support and information regarding mental health conditions, including potential medication side effects, to manage their treatment effectively.