NAECB Asthma Medication 4

Question 1

Tezepelumab (Tezspire) is unique among approved asthma biologics because it targets which upstream cytokine, making it effective regardless of eosinophil count?

Accepted Answer

TSLP (thymic stromal lymphopoietin)

Answer

Tezepelumab targets TSLP, an epithelial-derived cytokine upstream of all type 2 inflammatory pathways, providing broad efficacy.

Question 2

A patient with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) and asthma would MOST benefit from which add-on therapy?

Accepted Answer

Leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA)

Answer

AERD involves overproduction of cysteinyl leukotrienes, so LTRAs specifically blunt this pathway and improve both asthma and NSAID sensitivity.

Question 3

Which systemic corticosteroid course is recommended by NAEPP for an adult with a moderate-severe acute asthma exacerbation at hospital discharge?

Accepted Answer

3–5 day course of prednisone 40–60 mg/day

Answer

NAEPP recommends a 3–5 day course of oral prednisone (40–60 mg/day) after acute exacerbation to prevent relapse.

Question 4

Cromolyn sodium prevents asthma by which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Stabilizing mast cell membranes to prevent degranulation

Answer

Cromolyn sodium stabilizes mast cell membranes, preventing the release of inflammatory mediators upon allergen exposure.

Question 5

Which formoterol-containing combination ICS/LABA inhaler is FDA-approved for use as BOTH maintenance AND reliever therapy (MART/SMART strategy)?

Accepted Answer

Budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort)

Answer

Budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort) uses formoterol's rapid onset to allow single-inhaler maintenance and reliever therapy (SMART).

NAECB Exam Practice Test

NAECB Exam Practice Test

NAECB Asthma Medication 4