Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the PLAB Exam with a comprehensive quiz. Test your knowledge with multiple choice questions. Each query includes detailed hints and explanations to ensure you're ready for success on your exam day!

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Which patient population is at higher risk for withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing SSRIs?

Elderly
Children
Pregnant women
Patients with liver disease

The correct answer is: Elderly

The elderly population is indeed at a higher risk for withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This heightened risk is due to several factors that are particularly relevant in older adults. Firstly, the elderly often have multiple comorbidities and may be taking various medications, which can complicate the process of tapering off SSRIs. These individuals may also have age-related changes in pharmacokinetics, such as altered metabolism and excretion of medications, which can lead to a longer duration of action for SSRIs in their system. Additionally, older patients may also experience greater sensitivity to medication changes due to factors such as declining cognitive function and a possible decreased ability to tolerate withdrawal effects. These withdrawal symptoms can manifest as mood disturbances, irritability, and flu-like symptoms, making careful management essential. While children, pregnant women, and patients with liver disease also face risks when discontinuing SSRIs, the overall fragility and medication interactions commonly present in the elderly population contribute largely to their increased risk of experiencing withdrawal symptoms.