A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of major depressive disorder. Which of the following medications should the nurse expect the provider to prescribe to the client as a first-line treatment?
Explanation & Rationale
A reason: Midazolam. Midazolam is a benzodiazepine used for sedation, anxiety relief, and seizure management. It is not typically used as a first-line treatment for major depressive disorder. B reason: Fluoxetine. Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed as a first-line treatment for major depressive disorder. It helps increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and alleviate depressive symptoms. C reason: Cyclobenzaprine. Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant used to relieve muscle spasms. It is not indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder. D reason: Valproic acid. Valproic acid is a mood stabilizer primarily used to treat bipolar disorder and seizure disorders. It is not typically used as a first-line treatment for major depressive disorder.