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SSRI initiation counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyCNS TherapeuticsSSRI initiation counsellingGPhC CRA

A 28-year-old woman starts sertraline 50 mg daily for depression. She asks when she should expect to feel better. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: C — Explain that benefit may take a few weeks and early side effects can occur

SSRIs often take several weeks to produce clear antidepressant benefit, and early nausea or sleep disturbance may occur. The patient should also be counselled about worsening mood, suicidal thoughts and when to seek help. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS