CDT CDT Dermatologic Pharmacology & Medications

Question 1

What class of medication is isotretinoin (Accutane)?

Accepted Answer

Systemic retinoid

Answer

Isotretinoin is a systemic retinoid (vitamin A derivative) that treats severe nodular acne by reducing sebum production and normalizing follicular keratinization.

Question 2

What mandatory US risk management program must patients and providers enroll in before isotretinoin can be prescribed?

Accepted Answer

iPLEDGE REMS program

Answer

The iPLEDGE REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) program is mandatory for isotretinoin because of its severe teratogenicity risk.

Question 3

What is the mechanism of action of topical calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus (Protopic)?

Accepted Answer

Block T-cell activation to reduce inflammation

Answer

Calcineurin inhibitors block T-cell activation and inflammatory cytokine release, treating atopic dermatitis without causing the skin atrophy seen with steroids.

Question 4

Which oral antibiotic is most commonly prescribed to treat inflammatory acne in the US?

Accepted Answer

Doxycycline

Answer

Doxycycline is the most widely prescribed oral antibiotic for inflammatory acne due to its combined antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties against C. acnes.

Question 5

What is the primary mechanism of action of benzoyl peroxide in acne treatment?

Accepted Answer

Kills bacteria by releasing free oxygen radicals

Answer

Benzoyl peroxide kills C. acnes bacteria by releasing free oxygen radicals that create an anaerobic-hostile environment, while also having comedolytic effects.

(CDT) Certified Dermatology Tech Practice Test

(CDT) Certified Dermatology Tech Practice Test

CDT CDT Dermatologic Pharmacology & Medications