Pharmacology Exam: Key Complications

Front

Which laboratory value is most indicative of rhabdomyolysis? Options: Elevated serum creatinine, Elevated creatine kinase (CK), Decreased white blood cell count, Elevated blood glucose

Back

Elevated creatine kinase (CK)

Answer explanation

Elevated creatine kinase (CK) is the most indicative laboratory value for rhabdomyolysis, as it reflects muscle damage. Elevated serum creatinine may occur later, while the other options are not specific to this condition.

Front

Which of the following is a classic sign of hepatotoxicity? Jaundice, Bradycardia, Polyuria, Cyanosis

Back

Jaundice

Answer explanation

Jaundice is a classic sign of hepatotoxicity, indicating liver dysfunction and the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. The other options, bradycardia, polyuria, and cyanosis, are not directly related to liver damage.

Front

A patient develops swelling of the lips and tongue after taking an ACE inhibitor. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Back

Angioedema

Answer explanation

The patient's swelling of the lips and tongue after taking an ACE inhibitor is indicative of angioedema, a known side effect of these medications. Anaphylaxis is less likely as it typically involves more systemic symptoms.

Front

Which class of antidepressants should NOT be combined with MAOIs due to risk of serotonin syndrome? Options: SSRIs, Beta-blockers, Antipsychotics, Benzodiazepines

Back

SSRIs

Answer explanation

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) should not be combined with MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive serotonin levels.

Front

Which cardiac arrhythmia is characterized by a prolonged QT interval and can be caused by certain medications?

Back

Torsade de Pointes

Answer explanation

Torsade de Pointes is a type of ventricular tachycardia associated with a prolonged QT interval, which can be induced by certain medications. This distinguishes it from the other arrhythmias listed.

Front

Which of the following is a hallmark symptom of serotonin syndrome? Hyperreflexia, Hypotension, Bradycardia, Hypothermia

Back

Hyperreflexia

Answer explanation

Hyperreflexia is a hallmark symptom of serotonin syndrome, indicating increased reflex activity. In contrast, hypotension, bradycardia, and hypothermia are not characteristic features of this condition.

Front

Which medication is most commonly associated with neuroleptic malignant syndrome?

Back

Haloperidol

Answer explanation

Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication most commonly linked to neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a serious reaction characterized by muscle rigidity and autonomic instability. The other options are not typically associated with this condition.

Front

Agranulocytosis is most commonly a side effect of which antipsychotic medication? Options: Clozapine, Risperidone, Olanzapine, Quetiapine

Back

Clozapine

Answer explanation

Clozapine is known to cause agranulocytosis, a serious side effect that can lead to a dangerously low white blood cell count. This risk is significantly higher with clozapine compared to other antipsychotics like risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine.

Front

Which of the following is a characteristic movement disorder associated with long-term antipsychotic use? Tardive dyskinesia, Akathisia, Dystonia, Myoclonus

Back

Tardive dyskinesia

Answer explanation

Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder that occurs after long-term use of antipsychotic medications, characterized by involuntary, repetitive body movements. It is distinct from akathisia, dystonia, and myoclonus.

Front

A patient suddenly develops difficulty breathing, hypotension, and urticaria after receiving penicillin. What is the most appropriate initial intervention?

Back

Administer epinephrine

Answer explanation

The patient is experiencing anaphylaxis, indicated by difficulty breathing, hypotension, and urticaria. The most appropriate initial intervention is to administer epinephrine, which counteracts severe allergic reactions.