CCS CCS Pharmacology & Cardiovascular Medications

Question 1

Which class of antiarrhythmic drug works by blocking sodium channels and is classified as a Class I agent?

Accepted Answer

Lidocaine

Answer

Lidocaine is a Class IB antiarrhythmic that blocks sodium channels, slowing conduction in depolarized tissue.

Question 2

A patient on warfarin therapy should have their INR maintained in what therapeutic range for atrial fibrillation?

Accepted Answer

2.0–3.0

Answer

For atrial fibrillation, the therapeutic INR range for warfarin anticoagulation is 2.0–3.0 to balance stroke prevention and bleeding risk.

Question 3

Which medication is the first-line treatment for acute anaphylaxis that can cause cardiovascular collapse?

Accepted Answer

Epinephrine

Answer

Epinephrine (1:1000, 0.3–0.5 mg IM) is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis due to its vasoconstrictive and bronchodilatory effects.

Question 4

Beta-blockers such as metoprolol reduce heart rate primarily by which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Antagonizing beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart

Answer

Beta-blockers antagonize beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, reducing the chronotropic and inotropic effects of catecholamines.

Question 5

Which antiplatelet medication inhibits ADP-mediated platelet aggregation and is commonly prescribed after coronary stent placement?

Accepted Answer

Clopidogrel

Answer

Clopidogrel is a P2Y12 receptor antagonist that inhibits ADP-mediated platelet aggregation and is used for dual antiplatelet therapy after stenting.

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