Introduction
Introduction ( 5 Questions)
A nurse is reviewing the medication history of a client who has generalized anxiety disorder. The client reports taking alprazolam three times a day for the past year. The nurse should identify that abrupt discontinuation of this medication can result in which of the following adverse effects?
Seizures. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that acts on the GABA receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety. Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, tremors, insomnia, and anxiety. To prevent this, alprazolam should be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.
Choice B is wrong because alprazolam does not cause hypotension when discontinued.
Choice C is wrong because alprazolam does not cause bradycardia when discontinued.
Choice D is wrong because alprazolam does not cause constipation when discontinued.
Seizures.
Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that acts on the GABA receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety.
Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, tremors, insomnia, and anxiety.
To prevent this, alprazolam should be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.
Choice B is wrong because alprazolam does not cause hypotension when discontinued.
Hypotension is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in high doses or with alcohol.
Choice C is wrong because alprazolam does not cause bradycardia when discontinued.
Bradycardia is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in older adults or with other medications that slow down the heart rate.
Choice D is wrong because alprazolam does not cause constipation when discontinued.
Constipation is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in older adults or with other medications that affect the gastrointestinal motility.