Question

The client is taking bupropion to treat depression and is worried about taking the medication. The client tells the nurse a friend said the medication was removed from the market because it caused seizures. What is an appropriate response by the nurse?

A
Omit the next dose until you talk with your health care provider.
B
Ask your friend about the source of this information.
C
Your health care provider knows the best drug for your condition.
D
The recommended dose of this medication was changed, which lowered the risk of seizures.

Answer 1

The nurse should reassure the client that the dosage guidelines for bupropion have been changed to reduce the risk of seizures. Clients should discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider and not make independent changes to their medication regimen.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate response by the nurse to the client's concern about bupropion and the risk of seizures would be, "The recommended dose of this medication was changed, which lowered the risk of seizures." This direct answer acknowledges the client's concern while providing them with accurate and reassuring information about their prescription.

Bupropion does inhibit the reuptake of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression. Initially, there were concerns about the drug's safety due to its association with seizures at high doses. However, adjustments to the dosing guidelines have significantly reduced this risk. It is also noteworthy that bupropion is one of the few antidepressants without sexual side-effects, which can be beneficial for patients concerned about these specific issues. The client's healthcare provider would have considered these factors when deciding that bupropion was suitable for their condition.

That said, all medications have potential side effects, and it is important for clients to discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider rather than making changes to their medication regimen on their own. In addition, anticonvulsants like diazepam are used to manage seizures, but this is not related to the preventative use of bupropion.