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Pharmacology & Medication Management Flashcards

7 cards from real COM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning โ€” missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Pharmacology & Medication Management flashcards as text
  1. Which class of antihypertensive medications is most commonly associated with drug-induced gingival overgrowth that can interfere with orofacial myofunctional therapy?

    Answer: Calcium channel blockers

    Calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine and amlodipine are the most common antihypertensives linked to gingival overgrowth.

  2. A patient undergoing orofacial myofunctional therapy reports chronic use of opioid analgesics. Which oral side effect should the COM clinician monitor most closely?

    Answer: Xerostomia and reduced mucosal lubrication

    Opioids reduce salivary flow via anticholinergic mechanisms, causing xerostomia that compromises oral tissue health.

  3. Botulinum toxin type A injections used in bruxism management primarily work by:

    Answer: Inhibiting acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction

    Botulinum toxin prevents ACh vesicle fusion at the neuromuscular junction, producing temporary chemodenervation of targeted muscles.

  4. Which over-the-counter antihistamine most significantly impairs salivary flow and could complicate myofunctional exercises requiring adequate oral lubrication?

    Answer: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

    Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine with strong anticholinergic activity, producing pronounced xerostomia.

  5. A child patient's parent reports the child takes methylphenidate for ADHD. How might this medication affect orofacial myofunctional therapy sessions?

    Answer: It typically improves focus but may cause bruxism or jaw clenching

    Stimulant medications like methylphenidate can cause bruxism and jaw clenching as side effects while generally improving focus during the medicated window.

  6. A patient taking a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) for chronic pain presents for OMT. The COM should anticipate:

    Answer: Significant xerostomia and potential lip incompetence

    TCAs have strong anticholinergic properties producing xerostomia, which can worsen lip seal and oral rest posture.

  7. Which topical agent is sometimes applied to the tongue or palate to facilitate tactile awareness during myofunctional therapy and must be selected to avoid allergic reactions?

    Answer: Glycerin or flavored food-grade substances

    Food-grade glycerin or palatable flavored substances provide sensory cues without anesthetic or irritant risks during OMT exercises.