Chapter 07: Drugs for Allergy and Respiratory Problems Visovsky: Introduction to Clinical Pharmacology, 9th Edition

Which statement regarding the action of decongestants is true? a. Decongestants act by decreasing inflammation within the respiratory tract. b. Decongestants must be used cautiously as they can induce asthma attacks. c. Decongestants act primarily to reduce symptoms associated with allergy. d. Decongestants act by reducing the immune response of lymphocytes. ANS: C Decongestants are a class of drugs that are used to control the symptoms associated with allergy. They have no anti-inflammatory action. DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 112 2. A patient with allergies has been prescribed an antihistamine. Which response by the patient demonstrates understanding of the action of antihistamine drugs? a. “Antihistamines act by increasing the production of acetylcholine” b. “Antihistamines act by blocking histamine receptors in tissues” c. “Antihistamines act by increasing dilation of blood vessels” d. “Antihistamines act by blocking the release of histamine” ANS: B Antihistamines do not block the release of histamine, but rather, block histamine receptors in target tissues which in turn limit the blood vessel vasodilation, capillary leak, swelling, and bronchoconstriction