PC PC Pharmacology & Medications 2

Question 1

Which topical medication is FDA-approved for the treatment of onychomycosis and applied directly to the nail?

Accepted Answer

Efinaconazole (Jublia)

Answer

Efinaconazole solution is FDA-approved as a topical antifungal specifically formulated to penetrate the nail plate for treating onychomycosis.

Question 2

A podiatrist considers prescribing allopurinol. For which condition is this urate-lowering therapy indicated?

Accepted Answer

Chronic gout to prevent recurrent attacks

Answer

Allopurinol lowers uric acid production and is used for long-term prophylaxis in chronic gout, not for treating acute flares.

Question 3

Which antibiotic class is most appropriate for a diabetic foot infection caused by MRSA?

Accepted Answer

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) or vancomycin

Answer

TMP-SMX is effective for mild-moderate community-acquired MRSA infections, while vancomycin is used for serious or hospital-acquired MRSA.

Question 4

What is the mechanism of action of terbinafine, commonly used for fungal nail infections?

Accepted Answer

Inhibits squalene epoxidase, disrupting fungal cell membrane synthesis

Answer

Terbinafine inhibits squalene epoxidase, blocking ergosterol synthesis and causing squalene accumulation, which is toxic to fungal cells.

Question 5

A patient on warfarin presents for podiatric surgery. Which pharmacological concern requires pre-operative evaluation?

Accepted Answer

Elevated INR increasing bleeding risk

Answer

Warfarin prolongs clotting time, and the INR must be within an acceptable range (typically ≤1.5–2.0) before elective podiatric surgery to minimize bleeding complications.

(PC) Podiatrist Certification Practice Test

(PC) Podiatrist Certification Practice Test

PC PC Pharmacology & Medications 2