NBDE Pharmacology and Pain Control 3

Question 1

Which local anesthetic has the longest duration of action and is commonly used for procedures requiring prolonged anesthesia?

Accepted Answer

Bupivacaine

Answer

Bupivacaine has the highest lipid solubility and protein binding, producing durations of 4–9 hours and making it suitable for lengthy surgical procedures.

Question 2

Nitrous oxide produces analgesia primarily by:

Accepted Answer

Stimulating opioid receptors in the central nervous system

Answer

Nitrous oxide activates endogenous opioid receptors in the brainstem and spinal cord, contributing to its analgesic and anxiolytic effects.

Question 3

A child requires sedation for dental treatment. Which oral sedative is FDA-approved and commonly used in pediatric dentistry?

Accepted Answer

Midazolam

Answer

Oral midazolam is widely used for pediatric dental sedation due to its rapid onset, effective sedation, and amnestic properties with a manageable safety profile.

Question 4

COX-2 selective inhibitors like celecoxib are preferred over non-selective NSAIDs primarily because they:

Accepted Answer

Have lower risk of gastrointestinal ulceration

Answer

COX-2 inhibitors spare gastric prostaglandin synthesis (COX-1 mediated), reducing the risk of gastrointestinal mucosal damage compared to non-selective NSAIDs.

Question 5

Which opioid is a partial mu-receptor agonist and can precipitate withdrawal in opioid-dependent patients?

Accepted Answer

Buprenorphine

Answer

Buprenorphine is a partial agonist with very high mu-receptor affinity; it displaces full agonists and precipitates acute withdrawal in opioid-dependent individuals.

NBDE - National Board Dental Examination Practice Test

NBDE - National Board Dental Examination Practice Test

NBDE Pharmacology and Pain Control 3