Antidepressants
Antidepressants ( 5 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client who is taking citalopram (Celexa). The client reports having trouble sleeping at night. Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?
Citalopram (Celexa) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that can cause insomnia as a side effect. Taking the medication in the morning can help reduce this effect and improve the client’s sleep quality.
Choice B is wrong because the client should not stop taking citalopram abruptly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, and irritability.
Choice C is wrong because taking citalopram at night can worsen the insomnia and interfere with the client’s rest and recovery.
Choice D is wrong because taking citalopram with food does not affect its absorption or efficacy. The client can take citalopram with or without food according to their preference.
Citalopram (Celexa) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that can cause insomnia as a side effect. Taking the medication in the morning can help reduce this effect and improve the client’s sleep quality.
Choice B is wrong because the client should not stop taking citalopram abruptly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, and irritability.
The client should consult with the provider before discontinuing any medication.
Choice C is wrong because taking citalopram at night can worsen the insomnia and interfere with the client’s rest and recovery.
Choice D is wrong because taking citalopram with food does not affect its absorption or efficacy. The client can take citalopram with or without food according to their preference.
Normal ranges for citalopram are 20 to 40 mg per day for adults. The therapeutic plasma level is 40 to 120 ng/mL.
The client should have regular blood tests to monitor the drug level and avoid toxicity.