When assessing for SNRI side effects, which symptom should be monitored?

When assessing for SNRI side effects, which symptom should be monitored?

• A. Dizziness
• B. Rash
• C. Hair loss
• D. Vision changes

Answer: (A)

Monitoring dizziness is essential when assessing for side effects of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Dizziness can occur due to the impact these medications have on neurotransmitter levels and their effects on the central nervous system. Since SNRIs influence serotonin and norepinephrine, they may lead to changes in mood and autonomic function, which can manifest as dizziness for some patients. While the other symptoms listed—rash, hair loss, and vision changes—can occur with certain medications, they are not as commonly associated with SNRIs. A rash may indicate an allergic reaction, which is a concern for any medication but occurs with a lower frequency for SNRIs. Hair loss, while a potential side effect of many drugs, is not typically a significant concern with SNRIs, and vision changes are less frequently reported. Therefore, among the options provided, dizziness is the most relevant and commonly monitored side effect when assessing patients taking SNRIs.

Monitoring dizziness is essential when assessing for side effects of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Dizziness can occur due to the impact these medications have on neurotransmitter levels and their effects on the central nervous system. Since SNRIs influence serotonin and norepinephrine, they may lead to changes in mood and autonomic function, which can manifest as dizziness for some patients.

While the other symptoms listed—rash, hair loss, and vision changes—can occur with certain medications, they are not as commonly associated with SNRIs. A rash may indicate an allergic reaction, which is a concern for any medication but occurs with a lower frequency for SNRIs. Hair loss, while a potential side effect of many drugs, is not typically a significant concern with SNRIs, and vision changes are less frequently reported. Therefore, among the options provided, dizziness is the most relevant and commonly monitored side effect when assessing patients taking SNRIs.