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SSRI delayed benefit — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateCNS TherapeuticsSSRI delayed benefitGPhC CRA

A patient started sertraline one week ago and is worried because mood has not improved. What would you advise the patient?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Continue as prescribed and review after several weeks unless adverse effects are severe

SSRIs often take several weeks to improve mood, and early lack of effect is common. In this vignette, "Continue as prescribed and review after several weeks unless adverse effects are severe" is the safest single best answer. The other options are less appropriate because they miss the key clinical risk, conflict with UK medicines guidance, or delay needed review.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS