MTM Behavioral Health Pharmacotherapy 3

Question 1

Which SSRI has the longest half-life, making it least likely to cause discontinuation syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Fluoxetine

Answer

Fluoxetine has a half-life of 1–4 days and an active metabolite (norfluoxetine) with a half-life of 4–16 days, providing a self-tapering effect that minimizes discontinuation syndrome.

Question 2

An MTM pharmacist counsels a pregnant patient with depression. Which antidepressant is generally considered safest in the first trimester?

Accepted Answer

Sertraline

Answer

Sertraline is most commonly recommended during pregnancy due to the largest safety database and relatively favorable risk profile, though all antidepressants carry some risk.

Question 3

A patient with generalized anxiety disorder and comorbid depression would be best treated initially with which medication class?

Accepted Answer

SSRI or SNRI

Answer

SSRIs and SNRIs are first-line for both GAD and depression, making them ideal when both conditions are present, while benzodiazepines do not treat comorbid depression.

Question 4

Which mood stabilizer requires monitoring of thyroid function because it can cause hypothyroidism with long-term use?

Accepted Answer

Lithium

Answer

Lithium inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis and release, leading to hypothyroidism in up to 40% of patients with long-term use; thyroid function should be monitored every 6–12 months.

Question 5

A patient on bupropion reports a new-onset generalized tonic-clonic seizure. Which pre-existing condition most likely increased this risk?

Accepted Answer

Bulimia nervosa

Answer

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with bulimia or anorexia nervosa because electrolyte disturbances from purging significantly increase seizure risk.

(MTM) Medication Therapy Management Certification for Pharmacists Practice Test

(MTM) Medication Therapy Management Certification for Pharmacists Practice Test

MTM Behavioral Health Pharmacotherapy 3