Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

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Which class of drugs is an alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

Antidepressants
SSRIs
Beta-blockers
Anticonvulsants

The correct answer is: SSRIs

The use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is supported by research showing their effectiveness in managing menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes and mood disturbances. SSRIs work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help alleviate anxiety and depression that may accompany menopause. This is particularly beneficial for women who may have contraindications to HRT or prefer not to use hormones due to personal or medical reasons. Furthermore, SSRIs have been recognized for their dual role in treating depressive symptoms while also addressing certain physical symptoms of menopause. In contrast, while antidepressants in general might aid with mood stabilization, not all antidepressants have established efficacy for menopausal symptoms. Other drug classes like beta-blockers and anticonvulsants may have some off-label uses for specific symptoms, such as anxiety or seizure disorders, but do not specifically target menopausal symptoms like SSRIs do.