COT Ophthalmic Pharmacology 4

Question 1

Which topical ophthalmic antibiotic is a fluoroquinolone commonly used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Ciprofloxacin

Answer

Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic that inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms causing ocular infections.

Question 2

Sodium hyaluronate (viscoelastic) used during cataract surgery serves which primary intraoperative purpose?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining anterior chamber depth and protecting the corneal endothelium

Answer

Viscoelastic agents like sodium hyaluronate maintain space in the anterior chamber and coat the corneal endothelium to protect it from surgical trauma during intraocular procedures.

Question 3

A patient with herpes simplex keratitis should avoid which class of ophthalmic medication, as it can worsen the infection and cause stromal melting?

Accepted Answer

Topical corticosteroids used alone without antivirals

Answer

Topical corticosteroids used without concurrent antiviral coverage can suppress local immune response, allowing HSV replication and potentially causing progressive stromal ulceration.

Question 4

Mast cell stabilizers such as cromolyn sodium are used in allergic conjunctivitis primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Prevent degranulation of mast cells before allergen exposure

Answer

Mast cell stabilizers prevent the release of histamine and other mediators from mast cells when used prophylactically before allergen exposure, reducing allergic response.

Question 5

Which anti-VEGF agent administered by intravitreal injection is FDA-approved specifically for neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration?

Accepted Answer

Ranibizumab (Lucentis)

Answer

Ranibizumab is a VEGF inhibitor fragment specifically FDA-approved for treating neovascular AMD by blocking pathological new vessel growth in the retina.

COT - Certified Ophthalmic Technician Practice Test

COT - Certified Ophthalmic Technician Practice Test

COT Ophthalmic Pharmacology 4