skip to main content

SSRI early adverse effects — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyCNS TherapeuticsSSRI early adverse effectsGPhC CRA

A 35-year-old woman prescribed fluoxetine 20mg daily returns after 10 days because nausea and insomnia are troubling her. She denies suicidal thoughts and has no features of serotonin syndrome. What would you advise the patient?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Continue treatment if tolerable and arrange review because early adverse effects often settle

Nausea and insomnia are common early SSRI adverse effects and may improve with continued use. The patient should be counselled on expected onset of antidepressant benefit, adherence and when to seek help. Abruptly stopping may lead to relapse or withdrawal symptoms, although fluoxetine has a long half-life. St John's wort and tramadol introduce clinically important interaction risks.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS Depression