Veterinary Pharmacology Basics Flashcards

Which term describes an unexpected or unusual adverse drug reaction not related to the drug's pharmacological action?

Answer: Idiosyncratic reaction

An idiosyncratic reaction is an unpredictable, abnormal response to a drug that is not dose-dependent and not related to its primary mechanism.

Metronidazole is most commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat which type of infection?

Answer: Anaerobic bacterial and protozoal infections

Metronidazole is effective against anaerobic bacteria and protozoa such as Giardia and Trichomonas.

What is the primary concern when administering acepromazine to a brachycephalic breed?

Answer: Respiratory depression

Brachycephalic breeds have compromised airways, and acepromazine's sedative and respiratory-depressant effects increase the risk of respiratory compromise.

Which drug is used as a reversal agent for benzodiazepine sedation in veterinary patients?

Answer: Flumazenil

Flumazenil competitively antagonizes benzodiazepine receptors and is used to reverse benzodiazepine-induced sedation.

When a drug label states 'SID,' how often should the medication be administered?

Answer: Once daily

SID stands for 'semel in die,' Latin for 'once a day,' indicating once-daily dosing.

Which electrolyte imbalance is a common concern when a patient is receiving furosemide (a diuretic)?

Answer: Hypokalemia

Furosemide promotes potassium excretion in the urine, leading to hypokalemia (low blood potassium).

What is the primary purpose of using a loading dose when starting a drug therapy?

Answer: To quickly achieve therapeutic drug levels

A loading dose is a larger initial dose given to rapidly achieve therapeutic plasma concentrations before maintenance dosing begins.