AKT Pharmacology and Prescribing 2

Question 1

A patient taking an SSRI for depression is prescribed tramadol for pain. What potentially life-threatening interaction should be monitored?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin syndrome

Answer

Both SSRIs and tramadol (which inhibits serotonin reuptake) increase serotonergic activity; combined use markedly raises the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Question 2

Which drug is absolutely contraindicated in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency due to risk of hemolytic anemia?

Accepted Answer

Primaquine

Answer

Primaquine generates oxidative stress that G6PD-deficient red blood cells cannot neutralize, triggering acute hemolytic anemia.

Question 3

What is the primary mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors in treating hypertension?

Accepted Answer

Inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II

Answer

ACE inhibitors block angiotensin-converting enzyme, preventing the formation of angiotensin II, which reduces vasoconstriction and aldosterone release.

Question 4

A patient with COPD requires antihypertensive therapy. If a beta-blocker is necessary, which agent is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Bisoprolol

Answer

Bisoprolol is a highly cardioselective beta-1 blocker with minimal beta-2 effects, making it the safest option in patients with obstructive airway disease.

Question 5

Which antibiotic class exerts its bactericidal action by inhibiting bacterial cell wall peptidoglycan synthesis?

Accepted Answer

Beta-lactams

Answer

Beta-lactam antibiotics (penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems) inhibit transpeptidases (penicillin-binding proteins) required for peptidoglycan cross-linking in the bacterial cell wall.

AKT - Applied Knowledge Test Practice Test

AKT - Applied Knowledge Test Practice Test

AKT Pharmacology and Prescribing 2