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Multiple Choice
A patient comes in showing signs of depression. They are prescribed an SSRI but after 3 weeks, they are displaying symptoms of mania. Which medication may be more appropriate?
A
SNRI.
B
Tricyclic.
C
MAOI.
D
Lithium.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the patient's symptoms: The patient initially presented with signs of depression but later developed symptoms of mania after being prescribed an SSRI. This suggests a possible diagnosis of bipolar disorder, as SSRIs can sometimes trigger manic episodes in individuals with this condition.
Review the role of SSRIs: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to treat depression by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. However, they are not typically used as a standalone treatment for bipolar disorder due to the risk of inducing mania.
Consider the need for mood stabilization: In cases of bipolar disorder, mood stabilizers are often prescribed to manage both depressive and manic episodes. Lithium is a well-established mood stabilizer that can help prevent mood swings in bipolar disorder.
Evaluate the other medication options: SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors), Tricyclic antidepressants, and MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) are primarily used to treat depression and are not first-line treatments for bipolar disorder. These medications may also carry a risk of triggering mania in bipolar patients.
Conclude that Lithium is the most appropriate choice: Based on the patient's symptoms and the need for mood stabilization, Lithium is a more suitable medication for managing bipolar disorder and preventing further manic episodes.