ABPS ABPS Pharmacology & Therapeutics 2

Question 1

Which antibiotic class should be avoided in children under 8 years of age due to risk of permanent dental staining?

Accepted Answer

Tetracyclines

Answer

Tetracyclines bind to calcium in developing teeth and bone, causing permanent yellow-gray-brown discoloration and enamel hypoplasia in children under 8.

Question 2

A patient develops QT prolongation after starting azithromycin. Which co-prescribed medication most likely contributed to this risk?

Accepted Answer

Haloperidol

Answer

Haloperidol independently prolongs the QT interval, and combining it with azithromycin—which also prolongs QT—dramatically increases the risk of torsades de pointes.

Question 3

When prescribing ACE inhibitors, which electrolyte abnormality must be monitored closely?

Accepted Answer

Hyperkalemia

Answer

ACE inhibitors reduce aldosterone secretion, decreasing renal potassium excretion and increasing the risk of life-threatening hyperkalemia.

Question 4

A patient with gout is started on allopurinol. What is the primary mechanism of action of this medication?

Accepted Answer

Inhibits xanthine oxidase to reduce uric acid synthesis

Answer

Allopurinol inhibits xanthine oxidase, the enzyme responsible for converting hypoxanthine and xanthine to uric acid, thereby reducing its production.

Question 5

Which medication used for osteoporosis must be taken with a full glass of water and the patient must remain upright for at least 30 minutes after ingestion?

Accepted Answer

Alendronate

Answer

Alendronate, a bisphosphonate, can cause severe esophageal irritation and ulceration if it remains in contact with esophageal mucosa, requiring the patient to remain upright after dosing.

(ABPS) American Board of Physician Specialties Certification Practice Test

(ABPS) American Board of Physician Specialties Certification Practice Test

ABPS ABPS Pharmacology & Therapeutics 2