Isaac was being treated for somatoform pain disorder,and his psychiatrist prescribed imipramine,an antidepressant,in a very low dose for his symptoms.Assuming Isaac is also depressed,what is his likely treatment outcome?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Imipramine is known to have analgesic properties, which may help alleviate the physical pain associated with somatoform pain disorder. However, there is no guarantee that the medication will also address the underlying depression. Therefore, while Isaac's pain may improve, his depression may still require further treatment. Option A is incorrect as low doses of imipramine have been found to reduce somatic symptoms in patients with depression. Option B is an overgeneralization as the level of improvement can vary from individual to individual. Option D is not a likely outcome as many patients with depression respond to treatment.

Isaac Was Being Treated for Somatoform Pain Disorder,and His Psychiatrist