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SSRI initiation counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateCNS TherapeuticsSSRI initiation counsellingGPhC CRA

A 28-year-old woman starts sertraline 50 mg once daily for depression. She is worried because a friend said antidepressants work immediately. She has no suicidal thoughts today. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: D — Benefits may take a few weeks and early adverse effects should be discussed if troublesome

SSRIs may take several weeks to produce clear benefit, while early adverse effects such as nausea or sleep disturbance can occur sooner. Patients should be counselled about adherence and when to seek help. Worsening mood, suicidal thoughts or severe adverse effects require urgent clinical contact.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS