NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

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What is the recommended washout period before switching from MAO-Is to other antidepressants, except for fluoxetine?

1 week
2 weeks
5 weeks
No washout period needed

The correct answer is: 2 weeks

When switching from MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) to other antidepressants, except for fluoxetine, a washout period is required to prevent the risk of developing serotonin syndrome due to the interaction of the two medications. The recommended washout period before switching is typically 2 weeks for most antidepressants. Fluoxetine, which has a long half-life, requires a longer washout period (5 weeks) due to its prolonged effects in the body. Therefore, the correct answer is 2 weeks (Option B). Option A (1 week) is too short of a duration and may not allow sufficient time for the MAOI to clear the system before starting a new antidepressant. Option C (5 weeks) is correct for fluoxetine, but not for other antidepressants. Option D (No washout period needed) is incorrect as a washout period is necessary to minimize the risk of adverse effects when transitioning from MAOIs to other antidepressants.