A nurse is reinforcing teaching for a female client who has multiple sclerosis and a new prescription for dantrolene.
Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?.

Choice A rationale:

Dantrolene is a muscle relaxant used for relief of cramping, spasms, and tightness of muscles caused by multiple sclerosis. So, it should be taken regularly, not just when spasms are bad.

Choice B rationale:

While it’s important to communicate with the healthcare provider about the effectiveness of the medication, three months is a long time to wait without relief. The timeline should be discussed with the healthcare provider.

Choice C rationale:

The safety of dantrolene during pregnancy is not explicitly stated in the sources. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider about this.

Choice D rationale:

There’s no specific mention of needing to check calcium levels while on dantrolene. Regular follow-ups for overall health monitoring are necessary, but this statement is not directly related to dantrolene use.

So, the correct answer is A.

Choice A rationale:

1 cup (8oz) plain low-fat yogurt. This is incorrect choice. Yogurt is a high-protein food that can increase nausea and reduce the absorption of levodopa/carbidopa. According to the American Parkinson Disease Association, taking levodopa/carbidopa with a small, low-protein snack can help with nausea symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

1 cup (8oz) of applesauce. This is a correct choice. Applesauce is a low-protein, low-fiber food that can help reduce nausea and improve the absorption of levodopa/carbidopa. According to Drugs.com, taking levodopa/carbidopa with foods that have a high fiber content can delay the drug’s absorption into the body. Applesauce also contains natural sugars that can provide some energy and hydration to the client.

Choice C rationale:

1 cup (8 oz) cooked spinach. This is an incorrect choice. Spinach is a high-protein, high-fiber food that can increase nausea and decrease the absorption of levodopa/carbidopa. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation3, dietary protein can interfere with the absorption of levodopa by competing with the same transporter in the gut and the brain. High-fiber foods can also slow down the gastric emptying and reduce the drug’s availability.

Choice D rationale:

1 oz of cheddar cheese. This is an incorrect choice. Cheese is a high-protein, high-fat food that can increase nausea and decrease the absorption of levodopa/carbidopa. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, dietary protein can interfere with the absorption of levodopa by competing with the same transporter in the gut and the brain. High-fat foods can also delay the gastric emptying and reduce the drug’s availability.