PTCB Pharmacology #4 2

Question 1

Which of the following drugs is a direct thrombin inhibitor?

Accepted Answer

Dabigatran

Answer

Dabigatran (Pradaxa) is a direct thrombin (Factor IIa) inhibitor. Apixaban and rivaroxaban are Factor Xa inhibitors. Fondaparinux is an indirect Factor Xa inhibitor.

Question 2

What is the antidote for acetaminophen overdose?

Accepted Answer

N-acetylcysteine

Answer

N-acetylcysteine (Mucomyst, Acetadote) is the antidote for acetaminophen overdose. It replenishes glutathione stores, preventing hepatotoxicity from the reactive metabolite NAPQI.

Question 3

Which drug class do "-floxacin" suffix drugs belong to?

Accepted Answer

Fluoroquinolones

Answer

Fluoroquinolones end in "-floxacin" (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin). They inhibit DNA gyrase and are used for respiratory, urinary tract, and skin infections.

Question 4

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is associated with which class of adverse effects in elderly patients?

Accepted Answer

Anticholinergic effects (confusion, urinary retention, constipation)

Answer

First-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine have strong anticholinergic properties. In elderly patients, this can cause confusion, delirium, urinary retention, constipation, and falls. It is on the Beers Criteria list of drugs to avoid in older adults.

Question 5

Which of the following is the correct mechanism of metformin?

Accepted Answer

Activates AMPK, reducing hepatic glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity

Answer

Metformin activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which reduces hepatic gluconeogenesis, improves peripheral insulin sensitivity, and reduces intestinal glucose absorption. It does NOT cause hypoglycemia alone.

Pharmacy Practice Test

Pharmacy Practice Test

PTCB Pharmacology #4 2