NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

Paroxetine is an SSRI that is most noted for being:

1. Most activating

2. Most sedating

3. Causing the highest QT risk

4. Preferred in patients with cardiac risk

The correct answer is: Most sedating

Paroxetine is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) that is most noted for being the most sedating among the SSRIs. This sedating effect can be beneficial for patients who may also have insomnia or anxiety symptoms. In comparison, other SSRIs such as sertraline or fluoxetine are generally considered more activating or stimulating. Option A (Most activating) is incorrect as paroxetine is not known for its activating properties compared to other SSRIs like sertraline or fluoxetine. Option C (Causing the highest QT risk) is incorrect as paroxetine is not typically associated with markedly higher QT prolongation risk compared to other SSRIs. However, like all SSRIs, it is important to monitor patients for any potential cardiac side effects or interactions. Option D (Preferred in patients with cardiac risk) is incorrect because paroxetine is generally not the preferred SSRI in patients with cardiac risk due to its potential for anticholinergic effects and interactions with certain cardiac medications. SSRIs like sertraline or citalopram are often considered safer options in patients with cardiac conditions.