NBDHE NBDHE Pharmacology in Dental Hygiene 3

Question 1

A patient is prescribed metronidazole for a periodontal abscess. Which substance must be strictly avoided during and 48 hours after therapy?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol

Answer

Metronidazole inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase; alcohol consumption causes a disulfiram-like reaction with nausea, vomiting, and flushing.

Question 2

Which local anesthetic has the longest duration of action and is most appropriate for post-operative pain management after oral surgery?

Accepted Answer

Bupivacaine 0.5%

Answer

Bupivacaine 0.5% provides the longest duration of action (4–9 hours pulpal, 12+ hours soft tissue) among dental local anesthetics.

Question 3

A patient with G6PD deficiency is at increased risk for hemolytic anemia when taking which drug commonly used in dentistry?

Accepted Answer

Prilocaine

Answer

Prilocaine's metabolite o-toluidine can cause methemoglobinemia and trigger hemolysis in G6PD-deficient patients.

Question 4

Tetracycline-induced tooth staining occurs when the drug is administered during which period?

Accepted Answer

During tooth mineralization (fetal through age 8)

Answer

Tetracycline binds to calcium in mineralizing tooth structure during the period of active tooth development, from the second trimester of pregnancy through approximately age 8.

Question 5

Which mechanism best explains why erythromycin increases the plasma level of cyclosporine in transplant patients receiving dental antibiotic therapy?

Accepted Answer

Erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4, reducing cyclosporine metabolism

Answer

Erythromycin is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor, which reduces first-pass and hepatic metabolism of cyclosporine, elevating its plasma concentration.

NBDHE Test Practice Test

NBDHE Test Practice Test

NBDHE NBDHE Pharmacology in Dental Hygiene 3