Comprehensive exams for Mental Health Q 160
The effectiveness of monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor drug therapy in clients with posttraumatic stress disorder can be demonstrated by which of the following client self–reports?
A. “I’m sleeping better and don’t have nightmares”.
B. “I’m not losing my temper as much”.
C. “I’ve lost my craving for alcohol”.
D. "I’ve lost my phobia for water”.
Correct Answer: A. “I’m sleeping better and don’t have nightmares”
MAO inhibitors are used to treat sleep problems, nightmares, and intrusive daytime thoughts in individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder. An examination of the available literature supports the efficacy of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) in treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This effect may or may not be independent of the response of symptoms of major depression; there is suggestive but inconclusive evidence supporting both.
Option B: Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) were first introduced in the 1950s. They are a separate class from other antidepressants, treating different forms of depression as well as other nervous system disorders such as panic disorder, social phobia, and depression with atypical features.
Option C: Furthermore, examples of neurological disorders that can benefit from MAOIs are patients with Parkinson disease as well as those diagnosed with multiple system atrophy. Multiple system atrophy is a neurodegenerative disease that includes symptoms affecting movement as well as blood pressure.
Option D: MAO inhibitors aren’t used to help control flashbacks or phobias or to decrease the craving for alcohol. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are responsible for blocking the monoamine oxidase enzyme. The monoamine oxidase enzyme breaks down different types of neurotransmitters from the brain: norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, as well as tyramine. MAOIs inhibit the breakdown of these neurotransmitters thus, increasing their levels and allowing them to continue to influence the cells that have been affected by depression.