Anxiety Disorders and Medications Overview

Questions and Answers

A client rates anxiety at 8 out of 10 on a scale of 1 to 10, is restless, and has narrowed perceptions. Which of the following medications would appropriately be prescribed to address these symptoms? Select all that apply.

Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) (correct)

Oxazepam (Serax) (correct)

Clozapine (Clozaril)

Lithium carbonate (lithium)

Clonazepam (Klonopin) (correct)

A client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder is placed on clonazepam (Klonopin) and buspirone (BuSpar). Which client statement indicates teaching has been effective?

The client verbalizes that tolerance can result with long-term use of buspirone (BuSpar).

The client verbalizes that buspirone (BuSpar) can cause sedation and should be taken at night.

The client verbalizes that the clonazepam (Klonopin) is to be used for long-term therapy in conjunction with buspirone (BuSpar).

The client verbalizes that clonazepam (Klonopin) is to be used short-term until the buspirone (BuSpar) takes full effect. (correct)

In which situation would benzodiazepines be prescribed appropriately?

Short-term treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder, skeletal muscle spasms, and essential hypertension.

Short-term treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, alcohol withdrawal, and preoperative sedation. (correct)

Long-term treatment of panic disorder, alcohol dependence, and bipolar affective disorder: manic episode.

Long-term treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, convulsive disorder, and alcohol withdrawal.

A client recently diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder is prescribed clonazepam (Klonopin), buspirone (BuSpar), and citalopram (Celexa). Which assessment related to the concurrent use of these medications is most important?

<p>Monitor for changes in mental status, diaphoresis, tachycardia, and tremor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms are seen when a client abruptly stops taking diazepam (Valium)? Select all that apply.

<p>Insomnia</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Anxiety Disorders & Medications Overview

Anxiety rated 8/10, restlessness, and narrowed perceptions indicate increased anxiety levels and may require pharmacological intervention.
Benzodiazepines (e.g., Chlordiazepoxide, Clonazepam, Oxazepam) are suitable for treating symptoms of anxiety due to their sedative properties.

Medications for Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Clonazepam is used short-term to manage anxiety while buspirone takes 4-6 weeks for full effect.
Buspirone is non-sedating and should not be confused with benzodiazepines.

Appropriate Use of Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are prescribed for short-term treatment scenarios like generalized anxiety disorder, alcohol withdrawal, and preoperative sedation due to their addictive properties.
Long-term use of benzodiazepines is generally avoided due to the risk of dependency.

Monitoring Concurrent Medications

When prescribing clonazepam, buspirone, and citalopram together, monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome, characterized by mental status changes, tachycardia, and tremors.
Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may arise when multiple medications influence serotonin levels.

Withdrawal Symptoms from Diazepam

Abrupt cessation of diazepam can result in withdrawal symptoms including:
- Insomnia
- Tremor
- Delirium
- Dry mouth
- Lethargy

Key Considerations

Recognize the importance of differentiating medication functions (e.g., benzodiazepines vs. buspirone).
Understand the timeline and effects of anxiety medications to provide adequate patient education.
Serotonin syndrome assessment is crucial when combining psychotropic medications that affect serotonin.

Description

This quiz covers key concepts related to anxiety disorders and pharmacological treatments, including the use of benzodiazepines and buspirone. Understand the appropriate application and risks associated with these medications in managing anxiety symptoms, especially for Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of monitoring concurrent medication use.