What is the recommended washout period when switching from an MAOI to an SSRI?

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Multiple Choice

What is the recommended washout period when switching from an MAOI to an SSRI?

Explanation:
When stopping an MAOI and starting an SSRI, you need a washout period to prevent serotonin syndrome. MAOIs inhibit the enzyme irreversibly, so new monoamine oxidase must be synthesized before another serotonergic drug is added. That recovery typically takes about two weeks. Starting an SSRI earlier can allow excessive serotonin to accumulate. So, a two-week (roughly 14-day) interval is recommended. A shorter interval would risk interaction, while a longer one unnecessarily delays effective treatment.

When stopping an MAOI and starting an SSRI, you need a washout period to prevent serotonin syndrome. MAOIs inhibit the enzyme irreversibly, so new monoamine oxidase must be synthesized before another serotonergic drug is added. That recovery typically takes about two weeks. Starting an SSRI earlier can allow excessive serotonin to accumulate. So, a two-week (roughly 14-day) interval is recommended. A shorter interval would risk interaction, while a longer one unnecessarily delays effective treatment.

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