HOSA Pharmacology Test Exam Questions And Answers
Verified 100% Correct
Colchicine - ANSWER inhibits tubulin polymerizaiton into microtubules (cytoskeleton),
thus disrupting chemotaxis and phagocytosis and can be used for acute treatment and
prophylaxis of gout. Important side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, and
diarrhea.
Amiodarone - ANSWER a class III antiarrhthmic that causes lengthening of cardaic
action potential by prolonging phase 3 (inhibit potassium channels so slower
repolarization), which manifests as prolonged QT. in contrast to other drugs, very little
risk of torsades de pointes even though the QT interval is prolonged.
Atropine - ANSWER indicated for treatment of severe bradycardia as it decreases the
influence of SA and AV nodes. A common side effects is increased intraocular pressure,
which may precipitate acute closed-angle glaucoma.
Cocaine withdrawal - ANSWER characterized by development of acute depression
fatigue, vivid dreams, hypersomina, and hyperphagia. Key being relatively mild physical
symptoms compared to the others.
Ergonovine - ANSWER can provoke coronary artery vasospasm in the attempt to
diagnose Prinzmetal's angina ,characterized by episodic, transient attacks of coronary
vasopasm, typically occurring at rest and at night. Produce temporary ST elevations.
Rituximab - ANSWER used to treat the vasculitities
Nitrate tolerance - ANSWER patients need to have a nitrate-free period every day to
avoid tolerance of the drug
Nitrites (eg. amyl nitrite) - ANSWER oxidizing agents that are effective in the treatment
of cyanide poisoning due to the ability to cause methemoglobinemia (which rapidly
binds the cyanide).
Sodium thiosulfate may also be used
Lithium - ANSWER commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. Its use during pregnancy
is associated with Ebstein's anomaly (apical displacement of the tricuspid valve leaflets,
decreased right ventricular volume, and atrilization of the right ventricle.
Nitrates - ANSWER via conversion to NO activate guanylate cyclase and increase
intracellular levels of cGMP, which leads to decreased activity of myosin light chain
,kinase (less calcium), thus leading to mysoin light chain dephosphorylation, resulting in
vascular smooth muscle relaxation. Often used during a hypertensive crisis.
Clomiphene - ANSWER An estrogen receptor modulator that can allow those who have
PCOS to become fertile again. It decreases negative feedback inhibition on the
hypothalamus by circulating estrogen, thereby increasing gonadotropin production (FSH
and LH)
Histoplasma capsulatum - ANSWER Can survive intracellularly within macrophages. It
causes a disseminate mycosis in immunocompromised individuals (think histo for HIV).
Clinical features include systemic symptoms like weight loss and fever, painful oral
ulcers, lymphadenopathy, and hepatosplenomegaly (H for H)
Majority of water reabsortion - ANSWER occurs in the proximal convoluted tubule,
regardless of hydration status
Risperidone - ANSWER An antipsychotic that is used for schizophrenia. It works by
inhibiting D2 Dopamine, which in turn leads to hyperprolactinemia as dopamine can't
supress it. This can lead to hypogonadism with the inhibition of GnRH form the
hypothalamus. In addition, hyperprolactinemia can lead to amenorrhea, galactorrhea
and breast soreness.
Combination oral contraceptives (OCPs) - ANSWER inhibit ovulation by decreasing
synthesis of FSH and LH in the anterior pituitary. Their effects on cervical mucus and
endometrium play a minor role.
ACE Inhibitors - ANSWER can cause angioedema rarely due to bradykinin buildup (a
potent vascular permeability chemical). Symptoms include tongue, eyelid and lip
swelling. Discontinue the ACE inhibitor, potentially serious.
Dermal atrophy - ANSWER A topical steroid side effect if used for too long
Azoles - ANSWER supress the synthesis of ergosterol (e), an essential component of
the fungal cell membrane. They also inhibit the activity of the CP450 and thus drug-drug
interactions.
corticosteroids (fluticasone) - ANSWER Have the strongest and most predictable
effects on the inflammatory component of asthma. Inhaled corticosteroids form the
cornerstone of chronic therapy for patients with persistent asthma can reduce the
number and severity of acute asthma exacerbations.
Fibrates (Gemfibrozil) - ANSWER are most effective in treating hypertriglyceridemia
(can cause acute pancreatitis)
,Acetazolamide - ANSWER a diuretic that works by inhibiting carbonic anydrase
reactoins necessary for NaHCO3 reabsorption in the proximal tubule. This results in
urinary bicarbonate wasting. Azetazolamide is also used for glaucoma to relieve
pressure.
Finasteride - ANSWER a 5 alpha reductase inhibitor that suppresses peripheral
conversion of testosterone to dihydrotesterosterone. It is used for treatment of benign
prostatic hyperplasia and androgenetic alopecia (baldness)
Metonidazole - ANSWER interacts with alcohol causing acetaldehyde to accumulate
(like a disulfiram-like reaction when mixed with alcohol). It is often used to treated
trichomonas vaginitis and BV
Succinylcholine-induced hyperkalemia - ANSWER can causes significant potassium
release and life-threatening arrhythmias in patients at high risk for hyperkalemia,
including those with burns, myopathies, crush injuries, and denervating injuries or
diseases. (because it activates to high degree the acetylcholine receptor at the motor
end plate- potassium can come out).
Drug-Induced Lupus erythematosus drugs - ANSWER Hydralazine
Procainiamide
Isoniazid
Minocycline
Quinidine
Aortic Regurgitation - ANSWER "Water-hammer" pulses (full and then collapses) and
head-bobbing with each heart beat (de Musset sign) are characteristic findings of this
murmur.
Bounding femoral pulses.
Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) - ANSWER caused by the overuse of extensor carpi
radialis brevis and is characterized by angiofibroblastic tendinosis at its origin on the
lateral epicondyle.
Amlodipine - ANSWER a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker commonly used as
monotherapy or with other agents to treat hypertension. Major side effects include
headache, flushing, dizziness, and peripheral edema.
NE extravasation - ANSWER blanching of a vein into which NE is being infused
together with induration and pallor of the tissues surrounding suggest this and its
resulting vasoconstriction. Tissue necrosis is best prevented by local injection of an
alpha 1 blocking agent, like phentolamine.
, Clopidogrel (plavix) - ANSWER an antiplatelet agents that works by inhibiting platelet
surface ADP receptor. It works just as well as aspirin and can be used in combination or
when aspirin allergy occurs.
Thiopental/barbituate like elimination - ANSWER does not occur due to actual
metabolism of the drug but rather redistribution
Blood/gas partition coefficient - ANSWER determines the solubility of a gas in
anesthetic in the blood which in turn determines the onset of action of the drug. Drugs
with high coeffcients are more soluble in the blood, demonstrate slower equilibration in
teh brain, and have longer onset times.
Temporary course of benzodiazepines in GAD - ANSWER Benzos are sometimes used
to bridige for the first line SSRI's to kick in.
Triazolam - ANSWER a benzodiazepine that can be useful for treating
insomnia/anxiety in those with mission-critical positions, as it has the shortest half life
thus minimizing side effects.
The role of ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II blockers - ANSWER these drugs (aka
lisinopril) in combination with glycemic control help reduce the progression of diabetic
neuropathy in patients with proteinuria.
Aldosterone antagonists - ANSWER Including spironolactone and eplerenone are used
to treat hyperaldosteronism (Conn's syndrome) which is manifested by hypertesion,
hypokalemia (aldosterone wastes potassium), metabolic alkalosis (aldosterone wastes
hydrogen ions), and depressed renin.
First generation H1-histamine receptor antagonists - ANSWER This drug class includes
diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, and hydroxyzine. They can cause signficiant
sedation and should be avoided with other medications that suppress the CNS like
benzos like diazepam.
Vlacyclovir, acyclovir, and famciclovir - ANSWER Can all be used to reduce recurrence
of genital herpes.
A permissive effect - ANSWER cortisol exerts a permissive effect on many hormones
to help improve the response to a variety of stressors.
Tricyclic antridepressants like Amitriptyline - ANSWER can have antimuscarinic
(anticholinergic) side effects that may mimic atropine toxicity like fever, cutaneous
flushing, dry oral mucosa, dilated poorly reactive pupils and confusion
"hot as a hare, dry as a bone, red as a beet, blind as a bat, mad as a hatter)
Verified 100% Correct
Colchicine - ANSWER inhibits tubulin polymerizaiton into microtubules (cytoskeleton),
thus disrupting chemotaxis and phagocytosis and can be used for acute treatment and
prophylaxis of gout. Important side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, and
diarrhea.
Amiodarone - ANSWER a class III antiarrhthmic that causes lengthening of cardaic
action potential by prolonging phase 3 (inhibit potassium channels so slower
repolarization), which manifests as prolonged QT. in contrast to other drugs, very little
risk of torsades de pointes even though the QT interval is prolonged.
Atropine - ANSWER indicated for treatment of severe bradycardia as it decreases the
influence of SA and AV nodes. A common side effects is increased intraocular pressure,
which may precipitate acute closed-angle glaucoma.
Cocaine withdrawal - ANSWER characterized by development of acute depression
fatigue, vivid dreams, hypersomina, and hyperphagia. Key being relatively mild physical
symptoms compared to the others.
Ergonovine - ANSWER can provoke coronary artery vasospasm in the attempt to
diagnose Prinzmetal's angina ,characterized by episodic, transient attacks of coronary
vasopasm, typically occurring at rest and at night. Produce temporary ST elevations.
Rituximab - ANSWER used to treat the vasculitities
Nitrate tolerance - ANSWER patients need to have a nitrate-free period every day to
avoid tolerance of the drug
Nitrites (eg. amyl nitrite) - ANSWER oxidizing agents that are effective in the treatment
of cyanide poisoning due to the ability to cause methemoglobinemia (which rapidly
binds the cyanide).
Sodium thiosulfate may also be used
Lithium - ANSWER commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. Its use during pregnancy
is associated with Ebstein's anomaly (apical displacement of the tricuspid valve leaflets,
decreased right ventricular volume, and atrilization of the right ventricle.
Nitrates - ANSWER via conversion to NO activate guanylate cyclase and increase
intracellular levels of cGMP, which leads to decreased activity of myosin light chain
,kinase (less calcium), thus leading to mysoin light chain dephosphorylation, resulting in
vascular smooth muscle relaxation. Often used during a hypertensive crisis.
Clomiphene - ANSWER An estrogen receptor modulator that can allow those who have
PCOS to become fertile again. It decreases negative feedback inhibition on the
hypothalamus by circulating estrogen, thereby increasing gonadotropin production (FSH
and LH)
Histoplasma capsulatum - ANSWER Can survive intracellularly within macrophages. It
causes a disseminate mycosis in immunocompromised individuals (think histo for HIV).
Clinical features include systemic symptoms like weight loss and fever, painful oral
ulcers, lymphadenopathy, and hepatosplenomegaly (H for H)
Majority of water reabsortion - ANSWER occurs in the proximal convoluted tubule,
regardless of hydration status
Risperidone - ANSWER An antipsychotic that is used for schizophrenia. It works by
inhibiting D2 Dopamine, which in turn leads to hyperprolactinemia as dopamine can't
supress it. This can lead to hypogonadism with the inhibition of GnRH form the
hypothalamus. In addition, hyperprolactinemia can lead to amenorrhea, galactorrhea
and breast soreness.
Combination oral contraceptives (OCPs) - ANSWER inhibit ovulation by decreasing
synthesis of FSH and LH in the anterior pituitary. Their effects on cervical mucus and
endometrium play a minor role.
ACE Inhibitors - ANSWER can cause angioedema rarely due to bradykinin buildup (a
potent vascular permeability chemical). Symptoms include tongue, eyelid and lip
swelling. Discontinue the ACE inhibitor, potentially serious.
Dermal atrophy - ANSWER A topical steroid side effect if used for too long
Azoles - ANSWER supress the synthesis of ergosterol (e), an essential component of
the fungal cell membrane. They also inhibit the activity of the CP450 and thus drug-drug
interactions.
corticosteroids (fluticasone) - ANSWER Have the strongest and most predictable
effects on the inflammatory component of asthma. Inhaled corticosteroids form the
cornerstone of chronic therapy for patients with persistent asthma can reduce the
number and severity of acute asthma exacerbations.
Fibrates (Gemfibrozil) - ANSWER are most effective in treating hypertriglyceridemia
(can cause acute pancreatitis)
,Acetazolamide - ANSWER a diuretic that works by inhibiting carbonic anydrase
reactoins necessary for NaHCO3 reabsorption in the proximal tubule. This results in
urinary bicarbonate wasting. Azetazolamide is also used for glaucoma to relieve
pressure.
Finasteride - ANSWER a 5 alpha reductase inhibitor that suppresses peripheral
conversion of testosterone to dihydrotesterosterone. It is used for treatment of benign
prostatic hyperplasia and androgenetic alopecia (baldness)
Metonidazole - ANSWER interacts with alcohol causing acetaldehyde to accumulate
(like a disulfiram-like reaction when mixed with alcohol). It is often used to treated
trichomonas vaginitis and BV
Succinylcholine-induced hyperkalemia - ANSWER can causes significant potassium
release and life-threatening arrhythmias in patients at high risk for hyperkalemia,
including those with burns, myopathies, crush injuries, and denervating injuries or
diseases. (because it activates to high degree the acetylcholine receptor at the motor
end plate- potassium can come out).
Drug-Induced Lupus erythematosus drugs - ANSWER Hydralazine
Procainiamide
Isoniazid
Minocycline
Quinidine
Aortic Regurgitation - ANSWER "Water-hammer" pulses (full and then collapses) and
head-bobbing with each heart beat (de Musset sign) are characteristic findings of this
murmur.
Bounding femoral pulses.
Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) - ANSWER caused by the overuse of extensor carpi
radialis brevis and is characterized by angiofibroblastic tendinosis at its origin on the
lateral epicondyle.
Amlodipine - ANSWER a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker commonly used as
monotherapy or with other agents to treat hypertension. Major side effects include
headache, flushing, dizziness, and peripheral edema.
NE extravasation - ANSWER blanching of a vein into which NE is being infused
together with induration and pallor of the tissues surrounding suggest this and its
resulting vasoconstriction. Tissue necrosis is best prevented by local injection of an
alpha 1 blocking agent, like phentolamine.
, Clopidogrel (plavix) - ANSWER an antiplatelet agents that works by inhibiting platelet
surface ADP receptor. It works just as well as aspirin and can be used in combination or
when aspirin allergy occurs.
Thiopental/barbituate like elimination - ANSWER does not occur due to actual
metabolism of the drug but rather redistribution
Blood/gas partition coefficient - ANSWER determines the solubility of a gas in
anesthetic in the blood which in turn determines the onset of action of the drug. Drugs
with high coeffcients are more soluble in the blood, demonstrate slower equilibration in
teh brain, and have longer onset times.
Temporary course of benzodiazepines in GAD - ANSWER Benzos are sometimes used
to bridige for the first line SSRI's to kick in.
Triazolam - ANSWER a benzodiazepine that can be useful for treating
insomnia/anxiety in those with mission-critical positions, as it has the shortest half life
thus minimizing side effects.
The role of ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II blockers - ANSWER these drugs (aka
lisinopril) in combination with glycemic control help reduce the progression of diabetic
neuropathy in patients with proteinuria.
Aldosterone antagonists - ANSWER Including spironolactone and eplerenone are used
to treat hyperaldosteronism (Conn's syndrome) which is manifested by hypertesion,
hypokalemia (aldosterone wastes potassium), metabolic alkalosis (aldosterone wastes
hydrogen ions), and depressed renin.
First generation H1-histamine receptor antagonists - ANSWER This drug class includes
diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, and hydroxyzine. They can cause signficiant
sedation and should be avoided with other medications that suppress the CNS like
benzos like diazepam.
Vlacyclovir, acyclovir, and famciclovir - ANSWER Can all be used to reduce recurrence
of genital herpes.
A permissive effect - ANSWER cortisol exerts a permissive effect on many hormones
to help improve the response to a variety of stressors.
Tricyclic antridepressants like Amitriptyline - ANSWER can have antimuscarinic
(anticholinergic) side effects that may mimic atropine toxicity like fever, cutaneous
flushing, dry oral mucosa, dilated poorly reactive pupils and confusion
"hot as a hare, dry as a bone, red as a beet, blind as a bat, mad as a hatter)
