MTM Geriatric Pharmacotherapy 5

Question 1

Which antidiabetic medication is generally preferred in older adults due to its low hypoglycemia risk and cardiovascular benefits?

Accepted Answer

Metformin (if renal function permits)

Answer

Metformin does not cause hypoglycemia on its own and has established cardiovascular benefits, making it a preferred first-line agent in eligible older adults.

Question 2

A 77-year-old patient with moderate Alzheimer's disease is prescribed memantine. What is its primary mechanism of action?

Accepted Answer

NMDA receptor antagonism reducing glutamate excitotoxicity

Answer

Memantine is an NMDA receptor antagonist that reduces pathological glutamate activity believed to contribute to Alzheimer's neurodegeneration.

Question 3

What is the most appropriate blood pressure target for a frail elderly patient (≥80 years) with multiple comorbidities per current guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Individualized target around <150/90 mmHg balancing risk and benefit

Answer

For very elderly or frail patients, individualized targets around 150/90 mmHg are recommended to avoid the harms of over-treatment such as falls and syncope.

Question 4

Which pharmacist intervention is most effective in reducing polypharmacy-related harm in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Conducting comprehensive medication reviews and deprescribing inappropriate drugs

Answer

Comprehensive medication reviews with targeted deprescribing reduce adverse drug events, hospitalizations, and medication burden in geriatric patients.

Question 5

An elderly patient on chronic prednisone therapy should receive which preventive medication to reduce fracture risk?

Accepted Answer

Calcium and vitamin D supplementation with a bisphosphonate

Answer

Patients on chronic corticosteroids require calcium, vitamin D, and bisphosphonate therapy per guidelines to prevent glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis.

(MTM) Medication Therapy Management Board Certification Practice Test

(MTM) Medication Therapy Management Board Certification Practice Test

MTM Geriatric Pharmacotherapy 5