PTCB Pharmacology #2

Question 1

AcipHex contains which proton-pump inhibitor as the active ingredient?

Accepted Answer

Rabeprazole

Answer

AcipHex is the brand name for the proton-pump inhibitor rabeprazole. Rabeprazole, like other PPIs, works by reducing the production of stomach acid. It is commonly prescribed to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers.

Question 2

Which of these pharmacokinetic stages is the 'first pass effect'?

Accepted Answer

Metabolism

Answer

The 'first-pass effect' is a phenomenon of drug metabolism whereby the concentration of a drug is significantly reduced before it reaches the systemic circulation. This typically occurs when a drug is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and enters the portal circulation, where it is extensively metabolized by the liver before entering the general bloodstream. Therefore, it is a key aspect of drug metabolism.

Question 3

Which ailment is treated with drugs that inhibit the PDE5 enzyme?

Accepted Answer

Erectile dysfunction

Answer

Drugs that inhibit the PDE5 enzyme, such as sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis), are primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). By blocking phosphodiesterase-5, these medications increase the levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the smooth muscle cells of the penis. This leads to relaxation of these muscles and increased blood flow, facilitating an erection.

Question 4

Which of these medicine classes has been linked to a chronic, dry cough?

Accepted Answer

ACE inhibitors

Answer

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are a class of medications commonly used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. A well-known side effect of ACE inhibitors is a persistent, dry cough, which occurs in a significant percentage of patients. This cough is thought to be caused by the accumulation of bradykinin, a substance that ACE inhibitors prevent from being broken down, leading to irritation in the airways.

Question 5

Which of these medications can cause bronchospasm in asthmatics?

Accepted Answer

Beta-blockers

Answer

Beta-blockers, especially non-selective ones, can cause bronchospasm in individuals with asthma. These drugs block beta-2 adrenergic receptors, which are found in the smooth muscles of the bronchioles in the lungs. Blocking these receptors can lead to bronchoconstriction, narrowing the airways and exacerbating asthma symptoms.

Pharmacy Practice Test

Pharmacy Practice Test

PTCB Pharmacology #2