PSA Level 1

Question 1

What is the term for a high platelet count?

Accepted Answer

thrombocytosis

Answer

The term for a high platelet count is thrombocytosis. Platelets are tiny blood cells that help your body form clots to stop bleeding. An abnormally high number of platelets can increase the risk of blood clots or, paradoxically, bleeding in some cases.

Question 2

Which dopamine antagonists can pass the blood-brain barrier?

Accepted Answer

Metaclopramide

Answer

Metoclopramide is a dopamine antagonist that can pass the blood-brain barrier. This ability to cross into the central nervous system is responsible for its antiemetic effects (reducing nausea and vomiting) by blocking dopamine receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone. However, it also explains its potential for central nervous system side effects, such as extrapyramidal symptoms.

Question 3

What are the most usual side effects of lamotrigine?

Accepted Answer

Rash, rarely Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Answer

The most usual and serious side effect of lamotrigine is a rash, which can rarely progress to severe cutaneous adverse reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). Due to this risk, lamotrigine is typically initiated at a low dose and slowly titrated upwards to minimize the likelihood of developing a rash.

Question 4

What is an alternative analgesic to amitriptyline for neuropathic pain?

Accepted Answer

Pregabalin 75mg PO BD

Answer

Pregabalin 75mg PO BD is an effective alternative analgesic to amitriptyline for neuropathic pain. Both medications are commonly used for this condition, but pregabalin offers a different mechanism of action and may be preferred if amitriptyline is not tolerated or contraindicated. The 75mg twice daily dose is a standard starting point for pregabalin in neuropathic pain management.

Question 5

What are the most usual side effects of Sodium Valproate?

Accepted Answer

Tremor, teratogenicity, weight gain

Answer

The most usual side effects of Sodium Valproate include tremor, teratogenicity (a significant risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy), and weight gain. These are well-documented and important considerations when prescribing this medication, particularly for women of childbearing potential. Other side effects can occur, but these are among the most common and clinically significant.

(PSA) Prescribing Safety Assessment Practice Test

(PSA) Prescribing Safety Assessment Practice Test

PSA Level 1