Pharmacology and Therapeutics Flashcards

Which bronchodilator class acts primarily on beta-2 adrenergic receptors to cause bronchodilation?

Answer: Short-acting beta-2 agonists

Short-acting beta-2 agonists (SABAs) such as albuterol selectively stimulate beta-2 adrenergic receptors in airway smooth muscle, causing relaxation and bronchodilation.

What is the primary mechanism of action of ipratropium bromide?

Answer: Muscarinic receptor blockade

Ipratropium bromide is an anticholinergic agent that blocks muscarinic receptors, reducing bronchoconstriction and secretions by inhibiting acetylcholine binding.

A patient with status asthmaticus is receiving continuous albuterol nebulization. Which adverse effect must be monitored most closely?

Answer: Hypokalemia

Beta-2 agonists like albuterol stimulate Na+/K+-ATPase, shifting potassium intracellularly and potentially causing hypokalemia, which can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias.

Which inhaled corticosteroid is most commonly used as maintenance therapy for persistent asthma?

Answer: Fluticasone

Fluticasone (and other inhaled corticosteroids like budesonide and beclomethasone) is used as daily maintenance therapy for persistent asthma to reduce airway inflammation.

What is the therapeutic serum level range for theophylline in adults?

Answer: 10–20 mcg/mL

The therapeutic range for theophylline is 10–20 mcg/mL; levels above 20 mcg/mL are associated with toxicity including seizures, tachycardia, and nausea.

Dornase alfa (Pulmozyme) is primarily indicated for which condition?

Answer: Cystic fibrosis

Dornase alfa is a recombinant human DNase that cleaves extracellular DNA in mucus, reducing viscosity and improving airway clearance in patients with cystic fibrosis.

Which medication is classified as a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA)?

Answer: Salmeterol

Salmeterol is a LABA with a duration of action of approximately 12 hours, making it suitable for twice-daily maintenance dosing rather than acute rescue.