AEMCA Practice Exam

What describes discontinuation syndrome?

1. Gradual increase in medication effectiveness

2. Flu-like symptoms following abrupt cessation of antidepressants

3. Increased anxiety levels due to medication adjustments

4. Sustained improvement without medication

The correct answer is: Flu-like symptoms following abrupt cessation of antidepressants

Discontinuation syndrome is characterized by the onset of flu-like symptoms following the abrupt cessation of certain medications, particularly antidepressants. This condition can arise when the body suddenly adjusts to the absence of a drug to which it had become accustomed. Symptoms may include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and fatigue, mimicking the symptoms one might experience with the flu. The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of discontinuation syndrome. Gradual increases in medication effectiveness relate more to the therapeutic effects of medications over time, rather than their discontinuation. Increased anxiety levels due to medication adjustments may occur for various reasons but does not specifically define discontinuation syndrome. Lastly, sustained improvement without medication speaks to successful long-term treatment outcomes, which is unrelated to the symptoms associated with stopping medication abruptly.