CVA Veterinary Pharmacology 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which drug class is commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism in cats by blocking thyroid hormone synthesis?
- Thiamazole (methimazole) (Correct answer)
- Furosemide
- Prednisolone
- Doxycycline
Correct answer: Thiamazole (methimazole)
Methimazole (brand name Tapazole or Felimazole) inhibits thyroid peroxidase, reducing synthesis of T3 and T4 in hyperthyroid cats.
Question 2: A dog is prescribed phenobarbital for seizure control. Which organ's function must be monitored regularly due to long-term use?
- Kidneys
- Liver (Correct answer)
- Spleen
- Lungs
Correct answer: Liver
Phenobarbital is hepatically metabolized and can cause hepatotoxicity with chronic use, requiring regular liver enzyme monitoring.
Question 3: What is the primary mechanism of action of omeprazole in veterinary patients?
- H2 receptor antagonist
- Proton pump inhibitor (Correct answer)
- Antacid neutralizer
- Mucosal protectant
Correct answer: Proton pump inhibitor
Omeprazole irreversibly inhibits the H+/K+ ATPase (proton pump) in gastric parietal cells, reducing acid secretion.
Question 4: Which controlled substance schedule classification applies to ketamine in the United States?
- Schedule I
- Schedule II
- Schedule III (Correct answer)
- Schedule IV
Correct answer: Schedule III
Ketamine is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance under the DEA, requiring proper record-keeping and secure storage.
Question 5: A cat receives acepromazine as a pre-anesthetic. Which side effect should the veterinary assistant monitor for?
- Hypertension
- Hypotension (Correct answer)
- Tachycardia
- Hyperglycemia
Correct answer: Hypotension
Acepromazine causes vasodilation via alpha-1 adrenergic blockade, leading to hypotension, which is especially concerning in compromised patients.
Question 6: Which antiparasitic drug works by enhancing GABA-mediated neurotransmission in parasites, causing paralysis?
- Praziquantel
- Ivermectin (Correct answer)
- Fenbendazole
- Pyrantel pamoate
Correct answer: Ivermectin
Ivermectin potentiates GABA at nerve and muscle junctions in invertebrates, causing paralysis and death of susceptible parasites.
Question 7: When dispensing liquid medications, which tool provides the most accurate measurement for small volumes under 1 mL?
- Tablespoon
- Oral dosing syringe (Correct answer)
- Measuring cup
- Teaspoon
Correct answer: Oral dosing syringe
Calibrated oral dosing syringes provide the most accurate measurement for small volumes and reduce dosing errors in veterinary patients.
CVA Veterinary Pharmacology 4
Which drug class is commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism in cats by blocking thyroid hormone synthesis?