CVT CVT Pharmacology & Medication Effects on Vestibular Function

Question 1

Which class of medication is most commonly used as a vestibular suppressant for acute vertigo?

Accepted Answer

Antihistamines (e.g., meclizine)

Answer

Antihistamines such as meclizine act on histamine H1 receptors and are first-line vestibular suppressants for acute vertigo.

Question 2

Aminoglycoside antibiotics such as gentamicin cause vestibular damage primarily by:

Accepted Answer

Destroying type I and type II hair cells in the labyrinth

Answer

Aminoglycosides preferentially accumulate in the inner ear and destroy vestibular hair cells, causing permanent vestibular hypofunction.

Question 3

Which diuretic combination is most commonly prescribed to reduce endolymphatic hydrops in Meniere's disease?

Accepted Answer

Hydrochlorothiazide and triamterene

Answer

Hydrochlorothiazide combined with triamterene reduces fluid retention and endolymphatic pressure, decreasing Meniere's attack frequency.

Question 4

Long-term use of vestibular suppressants can interfere with vestibular rehabilitation primarily by:

Accepted Answer

Impairing central vestibular compensation

Answer

Prolonged vestibular suppressant use reduces the sensory mismatch signals needed to drive central nervous system adaptation and compensation.

Question 5

Intratympanic steroid injections are used in Meniere's disease primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Reduce endolymphatic pressure via anti-inflammatory action

Answer

Corticosteroids delivered intratympanically reduce inner ear inflammation and may decrease the frequency and severity of Meniere's attacks.

(CVT) Certified Vestibular Therapist Practice Test