Question

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who is about to begin amitriptyline therapy to treat major depressive disorder. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include? (Select all that apply)

A. Take the medication on an empty stomach
B. Avoid sudden discontinuation of the medication
C. Increase dietary intake of tyramine-rich foods
D. Limit alcohol consumption

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the client starting amitriptyline therapy to avoid sudden discontinuation of the medication and limit alcohol consumption.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should provide the following instructions to the client who is about to begin amitriptyline therapy for major depressive disorder:

• Avoid sudden discontinuation of the medication: Abruptly stopping amitriptyline can cause withdrawal symptoms. The dosage should be gradually reduced under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of amitriptyline and also worsen depression symptoms.