ExCPT Test Pharmacology 3

Question 1

Which drug class is primarily used to treat Type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues?

Accepted Answer

Thiazolidinediones

Answer

Thiazolidinediones (e.g., pioglitazone, rosiglitazone) are insulin sensitizers that act on PPAR-gamma receptors to reduce insulin resistance in muscle and adipose tissue.

Question 2

A patient is prescribed atorvastatin. What is the primary mechanism of action of this drug?

Accepted Answer

Inhibits HMG-CoA reductase

Answer

Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin) that blocks the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis in the liver.

Question 3

Which of the following opioid analgesics has the HIGHEST risk of causing QT prolongation?

Accepted Answer

Methadone

Answer

Methadone has a unique pharmacological profile that includes potassium channel blockade, leading to QT interval prolongation and risk of torsades de pointes arrhythmia.

Question 4

Benzodiazepines exert their anxiolytic effects by acting on which receptor?

Accepted Answer

GABA-A receptor

Answer

Benzodiazepines bind to GABA-A receptors at the benzodiazepine binding site, enhancing the effect of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) and increasing chloride ion influx.

Question 5

Which drug is used as an antidote for acetaminophen (Tylenol) overdose?

Accepted Answer

N-acetylcysteine

Answer

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) replenishes hepatic glutathione stores, allowing the liver to detoxify the toxic NAPQI metabolite that accumulates in acetaminophen overdose.

ExCPT Practice Test Practice Test

ExCPT Practice Test Practice Test

ExCPT Test Pharmacology 3