Pharmacology & Drug Regulations Flashcards

Which class of antibiotics is contraindicated in children under 8 years of age due to dental staining?

Answer: Tetracyclines

Tetracyclines chelate calcium and deposit in developing teeth and bones, causing permanent yellow-brown staining when given to children under 8 years.

A patient taking ACE inhibitors develops a dry persistent cough. The MOST appropriate action is:

Answer: Switch to an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB)

ACE inhibitor-induced cough is caused by bradykinin accumulation and is a class effect; switching to an ARB avoids this side effect while maintaining renin-angiotensin system blockade.

Heparin overdose is treated with:

Answer: Protamine sulfate

Protamine sulfate binds and neutralizes heparin through ionic interaction, rapidly reversing anticoagulation in heparin overdose.

Which diuretic class is the first-line treatment for nephrogenic diabetes insipidus?

Answer: Thiazide diuretics

Thiazide diuretics paradoxically reduce urine output in nephrogenic DI by inducing mild volume depletion, increasing proximal tubular water reabsorption.

What is the maximum safe daily dose of acetaminophen (paracetamol) in a healthy adult?

Answer: 4 grams

The maximum recommended dose of acetaminophen in healthy adults is 4 grams per day; doses exceeding this risk hepatotoxicity due to accumulation of the toxic NAPQI metabolite.

Which medication requires monitoring of serum potassium levels due to risk of hyperkalemia?

Answer: Spironolactone

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that blocks aldosterone receptors, reducing potassium excretion and risking hyperkalemia, especially in patients with renal impairment.