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. Midazolam: Midazolam is a benzodiazepine used for short-term sedation, anxiety, or procedural anesthesia. It is not indicated as a first-line treatment for major depressive disorder. B. Fluoxetine: Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is considered a first-line pharmacologic treatment for major depressive disorder due to its efficacy, safety profile, and tolerability. C. Cyclobenzaprine: Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant used to relieve skeletal muscle spasms. It has no antidepressant properties and is not appropriate for treating depression. D. Valproic acid: Valproic acid is primarily used as a mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder or seizure disorders. It is not a first-line treatment for major depressive disorder.