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SSRI initiation counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyCNS TherapeuticsSSRI initiation counsellingGPhC CRA

A 31-year-old woman asks for advice after starting sertraline 50mg daily one week ago for depression. She feels nauseated and slightly more anxious but denies self-harm thoughts. She wants to stop because she expected to feel better by now. What would you advise the patient?

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Correct answer: E — Continue treatment and seek review if symptoms worsen or suicidal thoughts occur

Early nausea and transient anxiety can occur with SSRIs, while antidepressant benefit usually takes several weeks. The key counselling point is persistence with safety-netting and review, especially for worsening mood or suicidal thoughts. St John's wort should be avoided because of interaction risk.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS