Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

Which of the following is considered a side effect of MAO inhibitors?

1. Weight loss

2. Dry mouth

3. Sensitivity to light

4. Increased exercise tolerance

The correct answer is: Dry mouth

Dry mouth is indeed considered a side effect of MAO inhibitors. These medications, which are primarily used to treat depression and anxiety, can affect the body's autonomic nervous system, leading to various side effects, one of which is reduced saliva production. This reduction manifests as dryness in the mouth, which can cause discomfort and impact oral health. Weight loss may occasionally be noted in patients on MAO inhibitors due to changes in appetite or gastrointestinal side effects, but it is not as typical or consistent a side effect as dry mouth. Sensitivity to light is generally not associated with MAO inhibitors. Instead, it is more relevant to other medications or conditions. Lastly, increased exercise tolerance does not typically correlate with the effects of MAO inhibitors; in fact, these medications may lead to fatigue or lethargy in some patients, which could decrease rather than improve exercise tolerance.