PLAB Pharmacology & Therapeutics

Question 1

Which class of medication is first-line for treating hypertension in patients under 55 years old according to current guidelines?

Accepted Answer

ACE inhibitors or ARBs

Answer

Calcium channel blockers

Answer

Beta-blockers

Answer

Thiazide diuretics

Question 2

What is the mechanism of action of metformin?

Accepted Answer

Decreases hepatic glucose production and increases insulin sensitivity

Answer

Stimulates insulin release from pancreatic beta cells

Answer

Blocks glucose absorption in the intestines completely

Answer

Increases urine glucose excretion

Question 3

Which anticoagulant requires regular INR monitoring?

Accepted Answer

Warfarin

Answer

Rivaroxaban

Answer

Apixaban

Answer

Dabigatran

Question 4

A patient on a statin reports new-onset muscle pain. What blood test should be ordered?

Accepted Answer

Creatine kinase (CK) levels

Answer

Serum calcium

Answer

Thyroid function tests

Answer

Blood glucose

Question 5

What is the antidote for paracetamol (acetaminophen) overdose?

Accepted Answer

N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

Answer

Flumazenil

Answer

Naloxone

Answer

Activated charcoal only

Question 6

Which antibiotic class should be avoided in children due to effects on developing cartilage?

Accepted Answer

Fluoroquinolones

Answer

Penicillins

Answer

Macrolides

Answer

Cephalosporins