American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology ABPN Neuropharmacology and Psychopharmacology

Question 1

Which neurotransmitter system is the PRIMARY target of typical antipsychotic medications?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine (D2)

Answer

Typical antipsychotics primarily block dopamine D2 receptors, which accounts for both their antipsychotic efficacy and extrapyramidal side effects.

Question 2

A patient on lithium develops tremor, polyuria, and polydipsia. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Check serum lithium level

Answer

Checking the serum lithium level is essential to determine if symptoms reflect toxicity or are side effects at therapeutic levels.

Question 3

Which antidepressant is MOST associated with serotonin syndrome when combined with an MAOI?

Accepted Answer

Fluoxetine

Answer

Fluoxetine, a potent SSRI with a long half-life, carries the highest risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with or shortly after an MAOI.

Question 4

Tardive dyskinesia is MOST commonly caused by long-term use of which class of drugs?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine receptor antagonists

Answer

Tardive dyskinesia results from chronic blockade of dopamine receptors, causing receptor supersensitivity and abnormal involuntary movements.

Question 5

Which anticonvulsant is considered FIRST-LINE for trigeminal neuralgia?

Accepted Answer

Carbamazepine

Answer

Carbamazepine is first-line for trigeminal neuralgia due to its efficacy in blocking sodium channels and reducing ectopic neuronal firing.

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Practice Test