NBDE Pharmacology and Pain Control 2

Question 1

Which opioid analgesic is considered safest for patients with hepatic impairment due to its primarily renal excretion?

Accepted Answer

Morphine

Answer

Morphine is preferred in hepatic impairment because its primary metabolite, morphine-6-glucuronide, is renally excreted rather than hepatically processed.

Question 2

A patient on warfarin requires dental extraction. Which analgesic is MOST appropriate for postoperative pain management?

Accepted Answer

Acetaminophen

Answer

Acetaminophen does not inhibit platelet function or significantly potentiate warfarin anticoagulation at recommended doses, making it the safest choice.

Question 3

The maximum recommended daily dose of acetaminophen in a healthy adult is:

Accepted Answer

4,000 mg

Answer

The FDA recommends a maximum of 4,000 mg per day for healthy adults to avoid hepatotoxicity; lower limits apply to those with liver disease or heavy alcohol use.

Question 4

Which benzodiazepine is preferred for IV conscious sedation in dentistry because of its short half-life and amnestic properties?

Accepted Answer

Midazolam

Answer

Midazolam has a rapid onset, short duration, and pronounced anterograde amnesia, making it ideal for brief dental sedation procedures.

Question 5

Epinephrine in local anesthetic solutions acts primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Decrease systemic toxicity of the anesthetic

Answer

Epinephrine causes vasoconstriction at the injection site, slowing systemic absorption and decreasing peak plasma concentration of the local anesthetic, reducing toxicity risk.

NBDE - National Board Dental Examination Practice Test

NBDE - National Board Dental Examination Practice Test

NBDE Pharmacology and Pain Control 2