NATA-BOC NATA-BOC Pharmacology and Drug Management 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which class of drugs is primarily responsible for reducing inflammation by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes?
- NSAIDs (Correct answer)
- Corticosteroids
- Opioids
- Antihistamines
Correct answer: NSAIDs
NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen reduce inflammation by inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, thereby decreasing prostaglandin synthesis.
Question 2: A student-athlete tests positive for a banned stimulant on a drug screening. Which organization's list should an athletic trainer consult to verify prohibited substances in collegiate sports?
- WADA
- NCAA (Correct answer)
- NATA
- USADA
Correct answer: NCAA
The NCAA maintains its own prohibited substance list for collegiate athletes, which athletic trainers must reference to counsel student-athletes on supplement and medication use.
Question 3: Which route of drug administration provides the fastest onset of action in an emergency situation?
- Oral
- Topical
- Intravenous (Correct answer)
- Intramuscular
Correct answer: Intravenous
Intravenous administration delivers drugs directly into the bloodstream, providing the fastest onset of action compared to other routes.
Question 4: An athlete is prescribed a corticosteroid injection for patellar tendinopathy. Which potential side effect should the athletic trainer monitor for following the injection?
- Hypoglycemia
- Tendon weakening (Correct answer)
- Bradycardia
- Hyponatremia
Correct answer: Tendon weakening
Repeated corticosteroid injections can weaken tendon collagen structure, increasing the risk of tendon rupture.
Question 5: Which medication is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis in an athletic setting?
- Diphenhydramine
- Epinephrine (Correct answer)
- Albuterol
- Prednisone
Correct answer: Epinephrine
Epinephrine (adrenaline) via auto-injector is the first-line emergency treatment for anaphylaxis due to its rapid bronchodilation and vasoconstrictive effects.
Question 6: A pitcher complains of gastric irritation after using ibuprofen daily for elbow pain. Which drug category would be a safer alternative to minimize gastrointestinal side effects?
- COX-2 selective inhibitors (Correct answer)
- Opioid analgesics
- Beta-blockers
- Muscle relaxants
Correct answer: COX-2 selective inhibitors
COX-2 selective inhibitors (e.g., celecoxib) target the inflammatory pathway while sparing the COX-1 enzyme that protects the gastric mucosa, reducing GI irritation.
NATA-BOC NATA-BOC Pharmacology and Drug Management 1
Which class of drugs is primarily responsible for reducing inflammation by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes?