CMA Pharmacology for Medical Assistants 4

Question 1

A patient is taking a statin medication and reports muscle pain. Which lab value should be checked to evaluate for rhabdomyolysis?

Accepted Answer

Creatine kinase (CK)

Answer

Elevated creatine kinase (CK) indicates muscle cell breakdown (rhabdomyolysis), a rare but serious complication of statin therapy.

Question 2

Which term describes a drug that enhances the action of another drug, producing an effect greater than either drug alone?

Accepted Answer

Synergism

Answer

Synergism (or potentiation) occurs when two drugs together produce a greater-than-additive effect compared to each drug administered alone.

Question 3

A patient reports taking St. John's Wort. Which type of prescription medication could have its effectiveness significantly reduced?

Accepted Answer

Oral contraceptives

Answer

St. John's Wort induces liver enzymes (CYP3A4), which accelerates the metabolism of oral contraceptives, potentially reducing their effectiveness.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of the National Drug Code (NDC) number on a medication label?

Accepted Answer

Uniquely identifies the manufacturer, product, and package size

Answer

The NDC is a unique 10-digit code that identifies the drug's labeler/manufacturer, product formulation, and package size.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes a contraindication for a medication?

Accepted Answer

A condition that makes use of the medication potentially harmful

Answer

A contraindication is a specific situation in which a drug should not be used because the risks outweigh the potential benefits.

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