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SSRI counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyCNS TherapeuticsSSRI counsellingGPhC CRA

A 29-year-old starts sertraline 50mg daily for depression and asks when it will help. She is worried because she feels slightly nauseated after the first dose. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Explain that benefit may take a few weeks and early nausea can occur

SSRIs often take several weeks to produce clear mood benefit, while gastrointestinal adverse effects may occur early. The patient should be counselled on adherence, expected onset, and when to seek help for worsening mood or suicidal thoughts. St John's wort can interact with SSRIs and should not be recommended.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS