CANS Pharmacology & Medications in Aesthetics

Question 1

What is the primary mechanism of action of botulinum toxin type A in aesthetic treatments?

Accepted Answer

Blocks acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction

Answer

Botulinum toxin type A cleaves SNAP-25 protein, preventing acetylcholine vesicle fusion and release at the neuromuscular junction, resulting in temporary muscle paralysis.

Question 2

Which enzyme is the antidote used to dissolve hyaluronic acid filler complications such as vascular occlusion?

Accepted Answer

Hyaluronidase

Answer

Hyaluronidase degrades hyaluronic acid chains and is the only enzymatic reversal agent available for HA-based dermal fillers.

Question 3

The maximum recommended dose of lidocaine WITH epinephrine for local anesthesia in aesthetic procedures is approximately:

Accepted Answer

7 mg/kg

Answer

Lidocaine with epinephrine has a maximum safe dose of approximately 7 mg/kg because epinephrine-induced vasoconstriction slows systemic absorption and reduces toxicity risk.

Question 4

Which topical depigmenting agent is considered the FDA-recognized gold standard for treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Accepted Answer

Hydroquinone 4%

Answer

Hydroquinone 4% is the gold standard depigmenting agent, working by inhibiting tyrosinase to reduce melanin synthesis in melanocytes.

Question 5

EMLA cream provides topical anesthesia through a eutectic mixture of which two local anesthetics?

Accepted Answer

Lidocaine and prilocaine

Answer

EMLA (Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetics) contains lidocaine 2.5% and prilocaine 2.5%, which together achieve a lower melting point and better skin penetration than either agent alone.

(CANS) Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist Practice Test

(CANS) Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist Practice Test

CANS Pharmacology & Medications in Aesthetics