AKT Pharmacology and Prescribing 3

Question 1

Which medication class is most commonly associated with drug-induced hyponatremia (low serum sodium)?

Accepted Answer

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Answer

SSRIs cause SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion), resulting in dilutional hyponatremia, particularly in elderly patients.

Question 2

A patient on digoxin presents with nausea, vomiting, and new-onset visual disturbances (yellow-green halos). What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Digoxin toxicity

Answer

The classic triad of GI symptoms plus xanthopsia (yellow-green vision) is pathognomonic for digoxin toxicity, often precipitated by hypokalemia.

Question 3

Which of the following is the most commonly reported adverse effect of statin therapy?

Accepted Answer

Myalgia and muscle weakness

Answer

Myalgia (muscle aching and weakness) is the most frequent adverse effect of statins, occurring in up to 10% of patients, while severe rhabdomyolysis is rare.

Question 4

A patient on long-term amiodarone therapy requires which of the following routine monitoring tests?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid function, liver function, pulmonary function, and ophthalmologic exam

Answer

Amiodarone contains iodine and is toxic to multiple organs; monitoring must include TFTs (hypo/hyperthyroidism), LFTs (hepatotoxicity), CXR/PFTs (pulmonary fibrosis), and annual eye exams (corneal microdeposits).

Question 5

Which medication is contraindicated in patients with acute gout because it can paradoxically worsen or prolong an acute attack?

Accepted Answer

Allopurinol

Answer

Allopurinol should not be initiated during an acute gout attack, as rapidly changing serum urate levels can mobilize urate crystals and prolong the flare.

AKT - Applied Knowledge Test Practice Test

AKT - Applied Knowledge Test Practice Test

AKT Pharmacology and Prescribing 3