Pharmacology worksheet with answers

What is an "adjuvant analgesic"?

1. AA drug that reverses the effects of opioids
2. BA strong opioid used only for severe pain at the end of life
3. CA placebo given to test whether pain is real
4. DA drug for another condition that also relieves some pain

Which long-term side effect of phenytoin makes good oral hygiene especially important?

1. ABlue-grey discoloration of the teeth and gums
2. BOvergrowth of the gums (gingival hyperplasia)
3. CExcess saliva production
4. DLoss of taste

Which route of administration avoids first-pass metabolism in the liver?

1. AOral tablet
2. BRectal suppository placed high in the rectum
3. CIntravenous
4. DOral solution

What is a loading dose used for?

1. ATo test for allergic reactions
2. BTo slow down the absorption of the drug
3. CTo reach the target plasma concentration quickly
4. DTo reduce side effects at the start of treatment

Which fraction of a drug in plasma can reach the receptor and produce an effect?

1. AThe fraction bound to globulins
2. BThe unbound (free) fraction
3. CThe fraction bound to albumin
4. DThe fraction stored in red blood cells

A patient takes low-dose weekly methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis. Which monitoring is needed?

1. AMonthly hearing tests
2. BRegular blood count, liver and kidney function tests
3. CDaily blood glucose checks
4. DWeekly INR checks and a monthly ECG to check the heart rhythm

A patient receiving cisplatin is given large volumes of IV fluid before and after each dose. What is the main purpose?

1. ATo increase drug absorption from the gut
2. BTo reduce kidney damage
3. CTo prevent hair loss
4. DTo prevent bleeding

A patient taking long-term hydroxychloroquine for lupus is advised to have regular eye examinations. Why?

1. AThe drug can cause retinal toxicity that may be permanent
2. BThe drug causes cataracts within a few weeks of starting
3. CThe drug stains the cornea blue
4. DThe drug raises pressure inside the eye