CVA Veterinary Pharmacology Basics 4

Question 1

Cats are particularly sensitive to which common over-the-counter pain reliever due to a deficiency in glucuronidation?

Accepted Answer

Acetaminophen

Answer

Cats lack the hepatic glucuronyl transferase enzyme needed to metabolize acetaminophen, making it highly toxic and potentially fatal.

Question 2

Which class of antibiotics inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis and includes amoxicillin?

Accepted Answer

Beta-lactams

Answer

Amoxicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins.

Question 3

What is the meaning of 'bioavailability' in pharmacology?

Accepted Answer

The fraction of administered drug that reaches systemic circulation

Answer

Bioavailability is the proportion of a drug dose that reaches systemic circulation in an unchanged, active form.

Question 4

Which drug is the reversal agent for alpha-2 adrenergic agonists such as dexmedetomidine?

Accepted Answer

Atipamezole

Answer

Atipamezole (Antisedan) is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic antagonist used to reverse sedation caused by dexmedetomidine or xylazine.

Question 5

A veterinary technician notices a cat's urine turns dark brown after drug administration. Which drug is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Acetaminophen

Answer

Acetaminophen toxicity in cats causes methemoglobinemia and hemolysis, resulting in brown or muddy-colored urine.

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