MSN Pharmacology for Advanced Practice 3

Question 1

Which class of drugs is the recommended first-line pharmacotherapy for smoking cessation in adults?

Accepted Answer

Varenicline (Chantix) — highest abstinence rates

Answer

Varenicline, a partial agonist at alpha4-beta2 nicotinic receptors, reduces cravings and withdrawal while blocking nicotine's reinforcing effects, achieving the highest abstinence rates.

Question 2

Serotonin syndrome is most likely to occur when which drug combination is used?

Accepted Answer

SSRI plus MAO inhibitor

Answer

Combining an SSRI with an MAOI causes dangerous serotonin excess because MAOIs prevent serotonin breakdown while SSRIs prevent reuptake, flooding synapses simultaneously.

Question 3

Which pharmacokinetic parameter determines the dosing interval for a drug?

Accepted Answer

Half-life

Answer

A drug's half-life determines how long it takes to eliminate half the drug; dosing intervals are typically set at one to two half-lives to maintain therapeutic levels.

Question 4

Statins reduce cardiovascular risk primarily by which mechanism beyond LDL lowering?

Accepted Answer

Pleiotropic effects including anti-inflammatory activity and plaque stabilization

Answer

Statins have pleiotropic effects including reduced C-reactive protein, improved endothelial function, and plaque stabilization, contributing to cardiovascular benefit beyond LDL reduction.

Question 5

A patient develops a dry, persistent cough after starting lisinopril. What is the pharmacological explanation?

Accepted Answer

ACE inhibition prevents bradykinin degradation; accumulated bradykinin irritates the airway

Answer

ACE normally degrades bradykinin; when ACE is inhibited, bradykinin accumulates in the lungs, stimulating sensory neurons and causing the classic dry cough adverse effect.

MSN - Master Of Science In Nursing Degree Practice Test

MSN - Master Of Science In Nursing Degree Practice Test

MSN Pharmacology for Advanced Practice 3