OCC OCC Pharmacology & Therapeutics 2

Question 1

Which NSAID is preferred in elderly patients due to its shorter half-life and lack of active metabolites?

Accepted Answer

Ibuprofen

Answer

Ibuprofen has a shorter half-life and no active metabolites, making it preferable to longer-acting NSAIDs like naproxen or piroxicam in elderly patients.

Question 2

A patient with COPD and hypertension should avoid which antihypertensive class due to risk of bronchospasm?

Accepted Answer

Non-selective beta-blockers

Answer

Non-selective beta-blockers block beta-2 receptors in bronchial smooth muscle, causing bronchoconstriction in COPD patients.

Question 3

Lithium toxicity is most likely to occur with which concurrent medication?

Accepted Answer

NSAIDs

Answer

NSAIDs reduce renal prostaglandin synthesis, decreasing renal lithium clearance and raising lithium serum levels to toxic range.

Question 4

Which antibiotic class inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs)?

Accepted Answer

Beta-lactams (penicillins and cephalosporins)

Answer

Beta-lactam antibiotics inhibit transpeptidation of peptidoglycan by irreversibly binding penicillin-binding proteins, disrupting cell wall synthesis.

Question 5

A patient taking SSRIs for depression also takes tramadol for pain. What serious drug interaction should be monitored?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin syndrome

Answer

Both SSRIs and tramadol increase serotonergic activity; combined use risks serotonin syndrome — a potentially life-threatening condition.

OCC - Osteopathic Continuous Certification Practice Test

OCC - Osteopathic Continuous Certification Practice Test

OCC OCC Pharmacology & Therapeutics 2