A patient was recently prescribed phenelzine. The patient is taking several other medications for chronic conditions. The nurse should be alert for

Explanation

• Phenelzine, like all monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), has many potential drug-drug interactions. Patients taking MAOIs carry a card alerting medical personnel about the potential drug-drug interactions.

• The most significant risk for those taking MAOIs is interactions with OTC and prescription medications. Tryptophan supplements can cause potentially fatal serotonin syndrome.

• Antidepressant medications like SSRIs and tricyclics can lead to hypertensive crisis. Meperidine, tramadol, and dextromethorphan can cause lethal reactions.

• Incorrect: Blurry vision is a common and harmless adverse reaction of MAOIs.

• Incorrect: Excessive secretions and rhabdomyolysis are not associated with MAOIs.

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