Question

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has depression and a new prescription for fluoxetine. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

1) I will take fluoxetine with grapefruit juice to enhance its effects.
2) I will stop taking fluoxetine if I start feeling better.
3) I will avoid alcohol while taking fluoxetine.
4) I will take fluoxetine only when I have severe symptoms.

Answer 1

The correct understanding of how to take fluoxetine, a medication for depression, is to avoid alcohol and take the medication consistently as prescribed, not just when feeling worse. Fluoxetine is an SSRI and functions as a serotonin agonist by increasing extracellular serotonin levels. Patients should report any side effects and not stop the medication without consulting their doctor.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has depression and a new prescription for fluoxetine. Among the provided statements, the one that indicates an understanding of the teaching is, "I will avoid alcohol while taking fluoxetine." This understanding is crucial because alcohol can exacerbate the symptoms of depression and may interact negatively with antidepressant medications, potentially leading to dangerous side effects. It is also notable that fluoxetine should not be consumed with grapefruit juice as it can affect the metabolism of many drugs, leading to either increased side effects or decreased efficacy. The correct approach to taking fluoxetine is to use it consistently as prescribed by a healthcare provider, rather than stopping abruptly if feeling better or only taking it when symptoms are severe, which could be detrimental to the management of depression.

Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that functions as a serotonin agonist. It inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, leading to an increase in the extracellular level of serotonin, which helps improve mood and alleviate depression. Therefore, Prozac is known as a serotonin agonist because it effectively increases the activity of serotonin in the brain.

It is important for patients taking antidepressants like fluoxetine to have ongoing discussions with their doctor, reporting any side effects and to not self-medicate or stop medication without medical advice. Adherence to medication and awareness of possible common side effects, such as weight gain, fatigue, or nausea, are key aspects of successful depression treatment.