VIEW/PRINT EDUCATION/HOMEWORK

ANTIDEPRESSANTS

High-Risk Concerns with Antidepressants :

• High Risk: Suicidal ideations, serotonin syndrome, withdrawal symptoms, cardiac symptoms

General Guidance:

• Do not ignore any unusual symptoms.

• Mild symptoms should be reported to your home health agency.

• Severe symptoms require emergency medical attention.

Call Your Home Health Agency Immediately if You Experience:

• Mild to moderate side effects such as nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, or mild mood changes.

• Worsening depression or anxiety (without suicidal thoughts).

• New side effects after starting or changing medication.

• Trouble sleeping or unusual fatigue.

• Mild tremors or restlessness.

Go to the Emergency Room (or Call 911) If You Have:

• Suicidal thoughts or self-harm behaviors.

• Severe serotonin syndrome symptoms (confusion, high fever, severe sweating, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, tremors, or seizures).

• Severe allergic reactions (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing).

• Extreme agitation, hallucinations, or violent behavior.

• Severe heart-related symptoms (chest pain, irregular heartbeat, fainting).

Important Note: Allergic Reactions

Medications can potentially cause an allergic reaction, which can range from mild to severe. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms to ensure your safety.

Mild to Moderate Symptoms:

These symptoms are less severe but still need attention:

• Rash or hives (itchy, red, raised welts on the skin).

• Itchy skin or eyes.

• Mild swelling

• Sneezing or runny nose.

• Mild nausea or stomach upset.

Severe Symptoms (Anaphylaxis – Medical Emergency):

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing (wheezing, shortness of breath)

• Swelling of the throat, tongue, or face that makes it hard to breathe or swallow.

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.

• Severe dizziness or fainting.

• Confusion or loss of consciousness.

• Severe drop in blood pressure (shock).

Contact your Home Health Care Agency in the following situations:

• Mild symptoms, such as a mild rash, itching, or slight swelling.

• New symptoms appear after taking a medication but are not life-threatening.

• If symptoms persist or worsen over time.

When to Go to the Emergency Room. Seek immediate medical help if:

• Breathing is difficult or there is throat swelling.

• The person feels dizzy, lightheaded, or faints.

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat occurs.

• Severe swelling of the face, lips, or tongue is present.

• Anaphylaxis symptoms occur (even if symptoms improve after using an epinephrine injection like an EpiPen).

If you’re unsure whether symptoms are severe, seek emergency care immediately. Anaphylaxis can progress quickly and become life-threatening without prompt treatment.

Patient Education Assessment – Antidepressants

True or False – Antidepressants can sometimes cause suicidal thoughts, especially when starting or changing doses.
True or False – If you have nausea, dizziness, or mild mood changes, you should immediately go to the emergency room.
True or False – Severe symptoms like chest pain, fainting, or irregular heartbeat are reasons to call 911 or go to the ER.
True or False – Suddenly stopping antidepressants can cause withdrawal symptoms.
True or False – Serotonin syndrome is a serious reaction that can include confusion, high fever, muscle stiffness, tremors, or seizures.
True or False – Mild allergic symptoms, like a rash or itchy skin, should be reported to your home health agency.
True or False – Severe swelling of the throat, lips, or tongue is a medical emergency.
True or False – If you notice new or unusual symptoms after starting an antidepressant, you should ignore them because they will go away on their own.
True or False – Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can cause difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, or fainting and require immediate emergency care.
True or False – Worsening depression or anxiety, even without suicidal thoughts, should be reported to your home health provider.

Answer Key with Explanations

True – Antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts, especially early in treatment or when doses change. Report these right away.
False – Mild side effects like nausea, dizziness, or mild mood changes should be reported to your home health agency, not the ER.
True – Chest pain, fainting, or irregular heartbeat are severe and need emergency care.
True – Stopping antidepressants suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and mood swings.
True – Serotonin syndrome is a dangerous condition and requires emergency treatment.
True – Mild allergic reactions (rash, itchy skin, mild swelling) should be reported to your provider or agency.
True – Severe swelling that makes it hard to breathe or swallow is an emergency (possible anaphylaxis).
False – Never ignore new or unusual symptoms. They should always be reported, even if mild.
True – Anaphylaxis can quickly become life-threatening. Emergency care is needed right away.
True – Worsening depression or anxiety should always be reported so your provider can adjust treatment safely.