A 28-year-old woman with panic disorder is started on paroxetine 20 mg daily. After 2 weeks of treatment, she reports decreased libido and delayed orgasm. When the prescriber explains that sexual side effects often resolve within 4-6 weeks and that the medication is effectively reducing her panic symptoms, the patient discontinues the medication without further discussion. Two months later, she presents to the emergency department with severe panic attacks and agoraphobia requiring hospitalization. Which of the following best explains the patient's decision to discontinue an effective treatment despite medical counseling?
- A)Lack of patient health literacy regarding selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor pharmacology
- B)Medication nonadherence resulting from intolerable adverse effects and prioritization of quality of lifeGABARITO
- C)Failure of the prescriber to obtain informed consent before initiating pharmacotherapy
- D)Development of tachyphylaxis to paroxetine's therapeutic effects after 2 weeks
- E)Paroxetine-induced serotonin syndrome presenting with sexual dysfunction as a prodromal symptom
Explicação
This case exemplifies medication nonadherence driven by adverse effects that the patient perceives as unacceptable, despite medical reassurance. The patient made a deliberate choice prioritizing sexual function (a quality-of-life concern) over symptom control,... Ver explicação completa e trilha adaptativa →