Discussion
Consider the following scenario
Faye, a 20-year-old student from Germany, seeks medical attention at the urging of her roommates, who report that her mood has become increasingly depressed during the past two semesters. She is withdrawn and moody, which is a significant change from her affect since first coming to the United States to attend college. She is otherwise healthy.
Assessment Findings:
Subjective (from patient statements):
10 lb weight loss during last 3 months
takes oral contraceptives for regulation of menses
reports smoking a pack of cigarettes per day
reports taking St. Johns Wort to treat her depression upon suggestion by her mother who has used the product for the past 10 years
Medical Plan:
immediately start Faye on sertraline (Zoloft) 50 mg once per day
recommend individual counseling therapy
Class:Zoloft is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). How do SSRIs work? What is St. Johns Wort? How does St. Johns Wort work as an antidepressant? What is your immediate concern regarding Fayes use of St. Johns Wort?
