PTCB Pharmacology #5 2

Question 1

Which bisphosphonate is administered intravenously once yearly for osteoporosis?

Accepted Answer

Zoledronic acid

Answer

Zoledronic acid (Reclast) is given as a single IV infusion once yearly for osteoporosis. This is useful for patients unable to tolerate or comply with weekly/monthly oral bisphosphonate regimens.

Question 2

Carbamazepine (Tegretol) requires monitoring for which serious adverse effect?

Accepted Answer

Aplastic anemia and agranulocytosis

Answer

Carbamazepine carries a black box warning for aplastic anemia and agranulocytosis. CBC monitoring is required, especially at treatment initiation. It is also a potent CYP3A4 inducer.

Question 3

Which GLP-1 receptor agonist is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection?

Accepted Answer

Semaglutide (Ozempic)

Answer

Semaglutide (Ozempic) is a once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist. Exenatide (Byetta) is twice daily, liraglutide (Victoza) is once daily, and dulaglutide (Trulicity) is also once weekly. Ozempic/Wegovy (higher dose) is also approved for weight management.

Question 4

Which of the following is the primary pharmacological effect of opioids?

Accepted Answer

Binding mu, kappa, and delta opioid receptors to reduce pain transmission

Answer

Opioids bind to G-protein coupled opioid receptors (mu, kappa, delta) in the brain, spinal cord, and periphery, inhibiting pain signal transmission, producing analgesia, euphoria, and respiratory depression.

Question 5

Anticholinergic drugs block which neurotransmitter's receptor?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Answer

Anticholinergic drugs block muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. Effects include dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation, tachycardia, blurred vision, and confusion — often remembered as "dry as a bone, blind as a bat, mad as a hatter, red as a beet."

Pharmacy Practice Test

Pharmacy Practice Test

PTCB Pharmacology #5 2