Pharmacology

Question 1

What is the pathophysiology behind heparin induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)?

Answer 1

Immune-mediated reaction after exposure to heparin.

It leads to the formation of antibodies that bind to platelet-heparin complexes, resulting in platelet activation, aggregation and destruction.

Question 2

What should you switch amlodipine to if ankle swelling is problematic?

Answer 2

Indapamide

Question 3

When is IV magnesium given in hypomagnesaemia?

Answer 3

1) Mg <0.4 mmol/L

2) Tetany

3) Arrhythmias

4) Seizures

Question 4

What should patients with MI 2ary to cocaine use be given as part of acute (ACS) treatment?

Answer 4

IV benzos

Why –> To reduce CNS stimulation and decreases sympathetic out-flow due to cocaine toxicity. Reduction in hypertension and tachycardia will decrease myocardial oxygen demand.

Question 5

What 2 medications is PDE 5 inhibitors used (e.g. sildenafil) contraindicated by?

Answer 5

1) nitrates
2) nicorandil

Question 6

Mechanism of aspirin?

Answer 6

Inhibits production of thromboxane A2

Question 7

What is the key investigation in patients with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning?

Answer 7

ABG –> carboxyhaemoglobin levels

Question 8

How can amiodarone therapy affect the eyes?

Answer 8

• corneal opacities
• optic neuritis

Question 9

Mx of amiodarone induced hypothyroidism?

Answer 9

Continue amiodarone and add levothyroxine

Question 10

Mx of organophosphate poisoning?

Answer 10

Atropine

Question 11

Mechanism of finasteride?

Answer 11

5 alpha reductase inhibitor which converts testosterone into DHT

Question 12

What is the major dose-limiting side effect of magnesium salts?

Answer 12

Diarrhoea