VTNE Veterinary Pharmacology 5

Question 1

What is the primary pharmacological effect of dexmedetomidine?

Accepted Answer

Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonism causing sedation, analgesia, and muscle relaxation

Answer

Dexmedetomidine is a highly selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that produces dose-dependent sedation, analgesia, and muscle relaxation.

Question 2

Which vaccine adjuvant is most commonly associated with injection-site sarcoma in cats?

Accepted Answer

Aluminum salts (aluminum hydroxide/phosphate)

Answer

Aluminum-based adjuvants in killed vaccines are associated with feline injection-site sarcoma (FISS), prompting recommendations to use non-adjuvanted vaccines in cats when possible.

Question 3

A dog on long-term corticosteroid therapy suddenly stops receiving the medication. What is the primary risk?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal insufficiency due to HPA axis suppression

Answer

Prolonged exogenous corticosteroid use suppresses the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and abrupt withdrawal can cause life-threatening adrenal insufficiency.

Question 4

Which local anesthetic has the longest duration of action and is commonly used for nerve blocks in large animals?

Accepted Answer

Bupivacaine

Answer

Bupivacaine has the longest duration of action among common local anesthetics (up to 6-8 hours) and is used for prolonged nerve blocks in horses and cattle.

Question 5

What is the antidote for organophosphate toxicity?

Accepted Answer

Atropine and pralidoxime (2-PAM)

Answer

Atropine counteracts excessive muscarinic stimulation (SLUDGE signs), while pralidoxime (2-PAM) reactivates acetylcholinesterase if given early before aging occurs.

VTNE - Veterinary Technician National Examination Practice Test

VTNE - Veterinary Technician National Examination Practice Test

VTNE Veterinary Pharmacology 5