GPHC questions I get Wrong Flashcards

(174 cards)

1
Q

A 5-year-old boy with asthma has recently experienced changes in mood, disrupted sleep patterns, and increased anxiety.
Which of the following medicines is the most appropriate to avoid when selecting treatment?

Options:

A. Doxycycline
B. Glycopyrronium bromide
C. Influenza vaccine
D. Magnesium
E. Montelukast
F. Omalizumab
G. Salbutamol
H. Theophylline

A

Montelukast

Montelukast should be avoided as it is known to cause neuropsychiatric side effects, including mood changes, nightmares, sleep disturbances, and increased anxiety, particularly in children.

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2
Q

A mother brings her 4-year-old daughter to the community pharmacy. The child has chronic otitis externa, and the mother believes there’s a mild fungal infection around the ear. The child has no otorrhoea, no fever, and the mother prefers to avoid steroid-containing treatments due to sensitivity.
Which of the following would be the most appropriate first-line suggestion?

Options:

A. Acetic acid spray 2%
B. Clioquinol and flumetasone pivalate drops
C. Clotrimazole 1% solution
D. Refer the child to A&E
E. Refer the child to the GP

A

A: Clotrimazole 1% solution

This is first-line for mild to moderate, uncomplicated fungal otitis externa, especially when steroid preparations are not suitable.

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3
Q

A 63-year-old woman is diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency and prescribed ergocalciferol 1.25mg (50,000IU) capsules. She takes regular medication to manage atrial fibrillation, epilepsy, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia. She also takes Senna 7.5mg tablets for occasional constipation.

Which of the following medicines is most likely to cause a severe interaction with ergocalciferol?

A. Bendroflumethiazide
B. Digoxin
C. Phenytoin
D. Senna
E. Simvastatin

A

B. Digoxin

Digoxin (Overdosing of Vitamin D can lead to hypercalcaemia which may increase the effects of digoxin and cause toxicity - this is a serious reaction)

Phenytoin can reduce the conc. of Vit D - moderate interaction

Bendroflumethiazide can reduce the clearance of calcium causing hypercalcaemia - moderate interaction

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4
Q

A 65 year old woman presents to A&E with symptoms of nausea, headache and confusion. Serium sode is 128 mmol/L. She has been diagnosed with hyponatraemia.

Which medication is most likely responsible for causing the low sodium?

A) Citalopram
B) Phenytoin
C) Prenisolone
D) Theophylline
E) Tolvaptan

A

A) Citalopram

Causes low sodium secondary to inappropriate secretion of ADH

Remember “These certain drugs ditch salt”

T = TCAs
C = Carbamazepine
D = Desmopressin
D = Diuretics
S = SSRI’s

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5
Q

45 year old woman presents to the community pharamcy asking for advice on symptoms. She wants to clarify if the symptoms she is experiencing are perimenopause or something else more serious.

Which of the following are more suggestive of perimenopause?

A) Irregular menstrual cycle and lower abdominal pain
B) Irregular menstrual cycle and vaginal dryness
C) Irregular menstrual cycle and gerneralised aching
D) Irregular menstrual cycle with loss of appetite and weight loss
E) Irregular menstrual cycle with tiredness and lethargy

A

B) Irregular menstrual cycle and vaginal dryness

Perimeopause is characterised by irregular cycles of ovulation and ends 12 months after the last menstrual period

Symtoms inlcude irregular menstrual cycles, hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings and vaginal dryness. Other symptoms may include weight gain, jaw and muscle pain, headaches, dizziness and decreased libido

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6
Q

65 year old man wpresents with dyspnoea, fatigue and High BNP. ECHO shows reduce ejectrion frcation. Patient is diagnosed with HF.

What is the most appropriate Beta-blocker to prescribe?

A) Atenolol
B) Carvedilol
C) Labetolol
D) Metoprolol
E) Propranolol

A

B) Carvedilol

Beta blockers licensed in the UK for HF are Bisoprolol, Carvedilol and Nebivolol

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7
Q

You have received a prescription for Morphine 10mg tablets (CD2) and have supplied it to the patient in the relevant CD register

Which of the following is a professional and legal requirement with regards to the CD register records?

A) Running balance must be recorded in the CD register
B) CD stock balance must be completed once a week on the same day each week
C) Electronic CD registers may allow entries ti be ammended at a later date
D) Ekectronic CD registers should be kept for 2 years fromthe date of the last entry
E) Written CD registers must be maintained alongside electronic registers at the premises

A

D) Electronic CD registers should be kept for 2 years fromthe date of the last entry

It is a legal requirement to keep CD registers for 2 years.

All other options are not legal requirements

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8
Q

45 y/o woman has been diagnosed with oestrogen-receptor positive breast cancer. She is prescribed tamoxifen 20mg daily after a total mastectomy. She has a history of depression and takes paroxetine 20mg every morning

Which of the following is the mist appropriate counselling point?

A) Redness, swelling or pain in the leg can be caused by tamoxifen and should be managed with painkillers and leg elevation
B) See your GP to review paroxetine dose as it may increase the chances if experiencing side effects from the tamoxifen
C) Take tamoxifen at night to reduce symptoms of hot flushes
D) Tamoxifen also reduces the risk of endometrial cancer
E) Tamoxifen should be taken daily to reduce the risk of breast cancer returning

A

E) Tamoxifen should be taken daily to reduce the risk of breast cancer returning

This should happen with ongoing review of the risks vs benefits of continuing

Tamoxifen INCREASES risk of endometrial cancer, its effectiveness is REDUCED by paroxetine, its timing of dose has no effect on side effects and INCREASES the risk of VTE which is a medical emergency (A&E)

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9
Q

A 72 y/o woman comes into the pharmacy to return some unsed medication belonging to her dead husband. There is fentanyl patches present in the bag.

Which one of the following is most appropriate action to take regarding the destruction of the CD?

A) Contact the Accountable Officer to witness the destruction
B) Place on the dispensary shelves while awaiting destruction
C) Record the destruction in the CD register
D) The pharmacist can destroy, with a technician present
D) Update the CD register balance with the quantity received

A

D) The pharmacist can destroy, with a technician present

AO is only required to withness destruction of expired CDs

Returned CDs should be kept in the CD cabinet while awaiting destruction

Patient returned CDs received and destroyed should be documented in a separate register

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10
Q

29 y/o man comes in with episodic bouts of diarrhoea. He also experiences flatulence, abdominal cramps and bloating. He is diagnosed with Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). He is prescribed a long term medication to releive the long IBS symptoms.

Which of the following is the most likely to be prescribed?

A) Fybrogel sachets, 1 sachet OD
B) Laxido sachets, 1 sached OD
C) Loperamide 2mg capsules, 1-2 capsules PRN
D) Mebeverine 135mg tablets, 1 tablet TDS
E) Mefenamic acid 500mg tablets, 1 tablet TDS

A

D) Mebeverine 135mg tablets, 1 tablet TDS

Mebeverine is an antispasmodic and there is a better drug for long term control of IBS. Usual dose is 135-150mg TDS, 20 mins before food

Loperamide is good for symptom control in the short term

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11
Q

A local community pharmacy has run out of a stock of meds and has asked you to supply OLanzepine 5mg orodispersible tablets 4x28 tablets (112 total). You make a record of supply in the POM register

What details must legally be recorded in the POM register?

A) Batch no. of medicine supllied
B) Date when signed order was recieved
C) Name of pahrmacy requesting medicine
D) Price of the medicines supplied
E) Purpose for which the medicine was supplied

A

E) Purpose for which the medicine was supplied

Entry into the POM regsister must include:
- Date POM was supplied
- Name and Quantity, formulation and strength of POM supplued
- Name and address, trade, business or preofession to whom the POM was supplied
- Purpose why the POM was supplied

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12
Q

29 y/o woman needs analgesia for lower back pain that has gotten worse in the last 2 days. She is breastfeeding and has also been using heat rub.

What is the most appropriate analgesic to supply to manage the patients symptoms?

A) Aspirin 300 mg QDS
B) Codeine 30mg TDS
C) Dihydrocodeine 30mg TDS
D) Paracetamol 500mg BD
E) Tramadol 20mg

A

C) Dihydrocodeine 30mg TDS

There is extensive reseach and experience in the safe use of Dihydrocodeine in breastfeeding. It can be used short term in breastfeeding with caution and infant monitoring

Paracetamol and tramadol can be used short term in breastfeeding, but the doses here are not optimal

Paracetamol should not be used alone in the management of lower back pain - NSAIDs are preferred

Asprin should be avoided due to the risk of Reye’s Syndrome

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13
Q

32 y/o man has been prescribed ciclosporin for Rheumatoid arthritis.

Which of the following is most appropriate to advise with regard to ciclosporin and food?

A) Oral liquid dose can be mixed with grapefruit juice
B) Oral liquid doses can be mixed with soft drinks before administration
C) Oral liquid doses should nt be taken with orange juice
D )Pomolo juice may decerase ciclosporin exposure
E) Purple grape juice may increase ciclosporin exposure

A

B) Oral liquid doses can be mixed with soft drinks before administration

This can be taken with apple, ornage, or soft drinks to improve the taste immediately before taking. The mouth should be rinsed with more to ensure total dose is given.

Do not give with grapefruit juice (severe interaction), increased exposure as a result of combination

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14
Q

14 y/o is under the care of a specialist for newly diagnosed gender dysphoria. They ahve been prescribed gonadotrophin-releaseing hormone (GnRH) analogues to block puberty for the treatment of their condition

They present with a private prescription for several meds. The prescription is dated 21st JUne 2025

What is the most appropriate action to take in this situation?

A) Contact the specialist to check that the prescibed medications are clinically appropriate for the patient
B) Refer the patient to another pharmacy who has more experince supplying medication in this area
C) Refuse the supply becasue pharmacies cannot supply GnRH private prescriptions after dated after 3rd June 2025
D) Refuse the supply becasue the medication has been prescribed on a provate form not an NHS form
E) Refuse the supply becasue the patients parent, legal guardian or carer needs to be present

A

C) Refuse the supply becasue pharmacies cannot supply GnRH private prescriptions after dated after 3rd June 2025

UK Gov has introduced an indefinite ban (subject to exceptions) on the sale of supply of puberty blocker via private prescriptions for gender incogruence/dysphoria in under 18s

This is due to the lack of safety data in the Cass study

Pharmacies cannot dispense private prescriptions dated after 3rd June 2024 for (GnRH) analogues from EEA/Switzerland for under 18s

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15
Q

45-year-old woman has been prescribed morphine to treat pain associated with a back injury following a recent accident at work. She has reported experiencing constipation and has been taking docusate sodium, but has not passed a stool in the past 4 days. The GP would like to add another laxative to treat her symptoms.

Which of the following laxatives would be most appropriate to add to docusate sodium to treat her constipation?

A) Bisacodyl
B) Lactulose
C) Ispaghula Husk
D) Macrogol
E) Methylcellulose

A

A) Bisacodyl

An osmotic laxative (or docusate sodium to soften the stools) and a stimulant laxative is recommended for opioid-induced constipation. Bulk-forming laxatives should be avoided

Macrogol and Lactulose are both Osmotic but the patient already has docusate, so a stimulant is required

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16
Q

Mrs H has been treated for hypothyroidism for the past 4 years with levothyroxine tablets 75mcg daily. Her previous thyroid function tests were within target ranges. Following a recent fall and fracture, Mrs A has started taking calcium carbonate 1.25g daily each morning. She is starting to feel cold and fatigued, which were her main symptoms before her hypothyroidism was treated. She asks for your advice when she comes to pick up her prescription.

Which of the following is the most appropriate advice for Mrs A?

A) Advise Mrs H to take space the dose of calcium carbonate and levothyroxine by at least 4 hours.
B) Advise Mrs H to take levothyroxine 2 hours before calcium carbonate.
C) Advise Mrs H to take calcium carbonate at night as it might be more effective at preventing fractures.
D) Advise Mrs H to contact her GP as her levothyroxine dose may need to be reduced
E) Advise Mrs H that there is nothing to worry about and to continue as normal.

A

A) Advise Mrs H to take space the dose of calcium carbonate and levothyroxine by at least 4 hours.

When giving Adcal and Levothyroxine together it can cause DECREASED exposure of the Levothyroxine. Therefore its best if 4 hours are left between doses

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17
Q

Ms B, a 16-year-old patient who has an acute flare up of her eczema, possibly triggered by exam stress.. She complains of severe itching on both hands and both her legs. On inspection, the skin shows no sign of discharge, oozing or bleeding, however the skin does look red, angry, and dry. The doctor would like to prescribe a moderately potent topical corticosteroid.

Which one of the following treatments would be the most appropriate?

A) Betnovate (betamethasone 0.1%) cream
B) Eumovate (clobetasone 0.05%) cream
C) Fucidin H (fusidic acid 2% and hydrocortisone 1%) cream
D) Hydrocortisone 2.5% cream
E) Trimovate (clobetasone 0.05%, nystatin 100,000units & oxytetracycline 3%) cream

A

B) Eumovate (clobetasone 0.05%) cream

Mild Potency
- Hydrocortisone 0.1-2.5%
- Dioderm
- Mildison
- Synalar1 in 10 dilution

Moderate Potency
- Betnovate RD (Readily Diluted)
- Eumovate
- Haelan
- Modrasone
- Synlar1 in 4 Dilution
- Ultralanum Plain

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18
Q

Which drugs do these side effects belong to:

● Photosensitivity
● Bradycardia
● Interstitial Lung Disease
● Thyroid [hyper/hypo]
● Corneal microdeposits [occular]
● Hepatotoxicity

A

Amiodarone

Remember…

Amiodarone is a Photogenic BITCH

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19
Q

What does CRASED refer to?

A

Digoxin Drug interactions:

● CCBs [VERAPAMIL]
● RIFAMPICIN
● AMIODARONE
● ST JOHNS WORT
● ERYTHROMYCIN
● DIURETICS

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20
Q

What does SCRAP GPS refer to?

A

Enzyme Inducers:

● St. Johns Wart
● Carbemazepine
● Rifampicin
● Alcohol (chronic)
● Phenytoin
● Griseofulvin
● Phenobarbitol
● Sulfonylureas

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21
Q

What does SICKFACES.COM refer to?

A

Enzyme Inhibitors:

● Sodium Valproate
● Isoniazid
● Cemedine
● Ketoconazole
● Fluconazole
● Alcohol
● Ciprofloxacin
● Erithromycin
● Sulphonamides
● Chloramphenicol
● Omeprazole
● Metronidazole

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22
Q

68 y/o woman comes in to have her regular breast screen to help her identify any breast cancer

Select the most appropriate frequency for screening?

A) 4 weeks
B) 12 months
C) 2 years
D) 3 years
E) 5 years
F) 10 years
G) 20 years
H) 25 years

A

D) 3 years

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23
Q

55 y/o Man has been sent a FIT kit test for Bowel screening for bowel cancer.

Select the most appropriate frequency for screening?

A) 4 weeks
B) 12 months
C) 2 years
D) 3 years
E) 5 years
F) 10 years
G) 20 years
H) 25 years

A

C) 2 years

Remember there are 2 syllables in BOW-EL for 2 years

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24
Q

Patient comes into the community pharmacy with symptoms of chlamydia.

What is the most appropriate treatment to give?

A) Azithromycin
B) Clarithromycin
C) Co-amoxiclav
D) Doxycycline
E) Flucloxacillin
F) Gentamicin
G) Metronidazole
H) Teicoplanin

A

A) Azithromycin

Doxycycline is first line but in not availble to be sold over the counter.

Therefore Azithromycin is the option as this can be supplied over the counter with a PGD for chlamydia

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25
A patient is needing treatment for a severe deep seated bone infection. The patient has NKDA. What is the most appropriate treatment to give? A) Azithromycin B) Clarithromycin C) Co-amoxiclav D) Doxycycline E) Flucloxacillin F) Gentamicin G) Metronidazole H) Teicoplanin
**E) Flucloxacillin** This is first line for Bone related infections caused by staph. aureas. This should be used at high doses too
26
21 year old woman with a history of asthma presentsin the GP for a routine review. She currently has an active infection that needs urgent referral. Which of the following would be most appropriate to AVOID in this patient? A) Doxycycline B. Glycopyrronium bromide C. Influenza vaccine D. Magnesium E. Montelukast F. Omalizumab G. Salbutamol H. Theophyline
C. Influenza vaccine Influenza vaccine is a live vaccine which is contraindicated in active infections
27
A 32-year-old woman presents at the pharmacy with symptoms of vaginal discharge and irritation. She reports that the discharge is white, thick, and odourless. She has no fever, no abdominal pain, and no history of STIs. On questioning, she mentions that she recently completed a course of broad-spectrum antibiotics for a urinary tract infection. She has no known allergies and is otherwise fit and well. Which of the following is the most likely cause of her symptoms? A) Bacterial vaginosis B) Chlamydia infection C) Trichomoniasis D) Vulvovaginal candidiasis E) Pelvic inflammatory disease
D) Vulvovaginal candidiasis Typical signs of vulvovaginal candidiasis = thick white discharge that is odourless, accompanied by irritation. These symptoms are commonly triggered by antibiotic use, which disrupts normal vaginal flora, allowing overgrowth of Candida albicans. Bacterial vaginosis typically presents with thin, grey, fishy-smelling discharge, and STIs such as chlamydia or trichomoniasis usually involve a coloured discharge, odour, or systemic symptoms such as pain or fever;none of whichare present here.
28
A 65-year-old man has recently been discharged from hospital after suffering a transient ischaemic attack (TIA). He presents a new prescription at your pharmacy for clopidogrel 75mg once daily. He asks whether he needs to continue taking his daily aspirin, which he was prescribed following a myocardial infarction 2 years ago. What is the best advice to give in this situation? A) Continue taking both aspirin and clopidogrel long-term B) Stop aspirin and take clopidogrel as monotherapy C) Take aspirin in the morning and clopidogrel in the evening to reduce bleeding risk D) Take aspirin regularly and clopidogrel only when symptoms reappear E) Stop both medicines and discuss lifestyle modification with the GP
B) Stop aspirin and take clopidogrel as monotherapy Aspirin should be discontinued when clopidogrel is initiated unless there is a specific secondary care indication for short-term dual antiplatelet therapy.If clopidogrel is not tolerated, an alternative regimen is aspirin 75mg daily plus modified-release dipyridamole 200mg twice daily. If both clopidogrel and aspirin are unsuitable, modified-release dipyridamole alone may be considered. If all other options are contraindicated, aspirin alone can be used.
29
A 30-year-old man presents to A&E with confusion and rapid heartbeat. His friend reports that he has type 1 diabetes and has not eaten all day. On examination, he is agitated, sweating, and has a capillary blood glucose reading of 2.4mmol/L. He is conscious but unable to follow instructions or take anything orally. Which one of the following is the most appropriate immediate management? A) Administer long-acting insulin to stabilise blood sugar B) Give rapid-acting insulin to correct hyperglycaemia C) Administer 10% glucose intravenously D) Administer 20g of glucose orally in the form of glucose tablets E) Give 1mg of IM glucagon
C) Administer 10% glucose intravenously Patient is unable to swallow so cannot tolerate oral administration - rik of choking. In such cases, intravenous glucose (e.g. 10%) is the preferred route for rapid correction. IM glucagon is typically used when IV access is not available and the patient is unconscious. Insulin of any kind is inappropriate in hypoglycaemia.
30
A 22-year-old woman taking a combined oral contraceptive (COC) presents at the pharmacy for advice. She tells you that she forgot to take her last pill and is now 14 hours late taking it. She is in the third week of her current pill packet. She has taken all previous pills correctly and is otherwise well. Which one of the following is the most appropriate advice? A) Take the missed pill now, continue the pack as normal, and use extra contraception for 7 days B) Discard the missed pill, continue with the next pill, and start a new pack immediately after this one C) Take the missed pill now, continue the pack, and omit the 7-day pill-free interval D) Stop taking the pack, use condoms for 7 days, and restart after the pill-free interval E) Take the missed pill now, continue the pack as usual, and take the 7-day break as normal
E) Take the missed pill now, continue the pack as usual, and take the 7-day break as normal 14 hours late is not a missed pill as its < 24 hours. Therefore the dose can be taken immediately even if that means taking two pills in one day, and then continue thepack as normal, including the 7-day break if applicable. No additional contraception is required, and emergency contraception is not needed.
31
A 76-year-old man with stage 4 chronic kidney disease (eGFR 22 mL/min/1.73m²) has been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. The prescriber plans to initiate an oral anticoagulant for stroke prevention and asks for your advice on appropriate choice. Which one of the following anticoagulants would be contraindicated for this patient based on his renal function? A) Apixaban B) Edoxaban C) Rivaroxaban D) Warfarin E) Dabigatran
E) Dabigatran Dabigatran is contraindicated when eGFR is below 30 mL/min, due to its renal excretion and increased risk of accumulation and bleeding. This patient has an eGFR of 22 mL/min, which places him in stage 4 CKD, making dabigatran unsuitable. Other DOACs such as apixaban, rivaroxaban, and edoxaban may still be used with dose adjustments and caution, while warfarin remains a safe and effective option in severe renal impairment as it is not renally excreted.
32
Which of these patients can you supply Amorolfine 5% nail lacquer too? A) 19 Y/O who has used the product for 6/12 without any significant improvement B) 28 Y/O woman who has 3 affected nails and is breastfeeding her 1 month old son C) 16 Y/O with a mild fungal infection. She is nil reg D) 55 Y/O man who has 2 affected nails. He currently takes Canagliflozin and Co-Codamol E) 25 Y/O with a fungal infection that affects the whole toenail. He is nil reg
A) 19 Y/O who has used the product for 6/12 without any significant improvement Amorolfine must be used until the entire nail has grown out which may take 3 months in fingers and 9-12 months in toes Patients with Diabetes, Breastfeeding, are under 18 or have an infection of the WHOLE toe are not able to be treated OTC
33
A parent visits your pharmacy with their 8-week-old baby who has developed a fever after receiving their MenB vaccination earlier in the day. The baby is otherwise well and has no drug allergies. The parent asks if they should give anything to bring the temperature down. Which one of the following is the most appropriate course of action? A) Advise against giving any medicine and monitor the baby overnight B) Recommend paracetamol 120mg/5mL, 5mL every 4–6 hours, up to 4 doses C) Recommend paracetamol 120mg/5mL, 2.5mL every 4–6 hours, up to 4 doses D) Recommend paracetamol 120mg/5mL, 2.5mL every 4–6 hours, maximum 3 doses in 24 hours E) Refer the child to the GP immediately as paracetamol is contraindicated under 3 months of age
D) Recommend paracetamol 120mg/5mL, 2.5mL every 4–6 hours, maximum 3 doses in 24 hours For babies aged up to 3 months, paracetamol can be given for post-immunisation fever, specifically after the MenB vaccine, which is known to cause higher rates of fever in infants. The recommended dose is 2.5mL of 120mg/5mL oral suspension, given up to three times in 24 hours, with a minimum 4–6 hours between doses. This advice is supported by both the BNF for Children and NHS guidance on post-vaccine care.
34
A 41-year-old man presents to his GP with a 3-day history of sore throat, hoarseness, and a low-grade fever. On examination, his throat appears mildly inflamed but there is no pus, and his tonsils are not enlarged. He is otherwise well and has no comorbidities. He requests antibiotics, saying he has an important work event in 4 days and doesn’t want to feel worse. According to national guidance, which one of the following is the most appropriate course of action? A) Prescribe a 5-day course of phenoxymethylpenicillin B) Prescribe a 3-day course of clarithromycin to avoid penicillin allergy risk C) Provide a delayed prescription with safety-netting advice D) Prescribe flucloxacillin due to the likelihood of resistant organisms E) Refer to secondary care due to hoarseness and fever
C) Provide a delayed prescription with safety-netting advice This patient has symptoms of a self-limiting viral upper respiratory tract infection. Antimicrobial prescribing guidelines, immediate antibiotics are not usually indicated unless red flags are present (e.g. very unwell, immunocompromised, or signs of bacterial infection). A delayed prescription is appropriate when symptoms are not severe but the patient is concerned, as it allows for antibiotics to be started if symptoms worsen or do not improve within 3-5 days, while promoting antibiotic stewardship. Safety-netting advice is essential.
35
A mother visits your pharmacy with her 10-week-old son. She explains he has had a mild cough and nasal congestion for the past two days, and she asks whether she can purchase any cough syrup to help settle him, especially at night. The infant was born full-term and is otherwise healthy, with no regular medicines or allergies. Which one of the following is the most appropriate response? A) Recommend simple linctus sugar-free 5mL three times daily B) Recommend lemon and honey syrup for infants C) Advise a vapour rub containing menthol and eucalyptus D) Advise nasal saline drops and reassure the mother E) Supply ibuprofen suspension to help soothe the cough
D) Advise nasal saline drops and reassure the mother Most cough and cold remedies are not licensed for use in children under 6 years, and especially not in infants under 3 months. Products such as simple linctus or lemon and honey syrup are not licensed for this age group. Menthol-based vapour rubs can cause respiratory distress in very young infants and are generallylicensed in those aged 2 years and over. Ibuprofen is not licensed under 3 months of age, and in the absence of fever or pain, there is no clinical indication. Nasal saline drops, which are licensed from birth, are the safest and most appropriate choice, alongside reassurance, as symptoms are likely to be viral and self-limiting.
36
A 45-year-old man has been started on olanzapine 10mg once daily for newly diagnosed schizophrenia. He collects his medication from your pharmacy and asks what side effects he should look out for. He lives alone and is keen to understand when he should seek medical advice. Which one of the following side effects is most important to highlight at the point of dispensing? A) Metallic taste B) Restlessness or insomnia C) Excessive salivation D) Weight loss and reduced appetite E) Signs of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst and urination
E) Signs of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst and urination Olanzapine is associated with a high risk of metabolic side effects, including hyperglycaemia, weight gain, and diabetes mellitus. Patients should be counselled to monitor for signs such as increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss, and to seek prompt medical advice if these occur. While other side effects such as sedation or restlessness (e.g. akathisia) may occur, metabolic complications are often silent until severe, making early counselling critical.
37
A 53-year-old woman presents to the pharmacy with a prescription for ferrous sulfate 200mg tablets, to be taken twice daily. She has been experiencing fatigue and was recently diagnosed with iron-deficiency anaemia following routine blood tests. During counselling, she mentions that she has been taking her tablets with tea and often experiences stomach discomfort after the dose. Which one of the following is the most appropriate advice to improve both the absorption and tolerability of her treatment? A) Take the tablets with tea to reduce nausea B) Switch to ferrous fumarate for improved absorption C) Take the tablets on an empty stomach, ideally with orange juice D) Take the tablets with milk to protect the stomach lining E) Reduce the dose to one tablet daily to minimise side effects
C) Take the tablets on an empty stomach, ideally with orange juice Iron absorption is maximised when taken on an empty stomach and enhanced by vitamin C, which is found in orange juice. Tea and milk can reduce absorption due to their calcium and tannin content. Although gastrointestinal discomfort is common, the best approach is not to reduce the dose unless necessary, but rather to manage timing and co-administration. It can betaken after food to reduce gastro-intestinal side-effects if necessary.
38
A 58-year-old man was recently started on a newly licensed biologic therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. Since starting treatment 3 months ago, he has experienced mild injection site reactions (redness and slight discomfort) along with transient mild headaches following his injections. These symptoms are not severe and do not require treatment, but the biologic still carries a black triangle status for additional post-marketing surveillance. Which one of the following is the most appropriate action regarding adverse drug reaction reporting under the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme? A) Report all adverse reactions, regardless of severity, for newly licensed medicines B) Do not report mild side effects if they are already listed in the SmPC C) Only report the adverse reaction if it results in hospitalisation or serious harm D) Report the adverse reaction only if it occurs consistently after every dose E) Only report reactions that occur within 48 hours of administration
**A) Report all adverse reactions, regardless of severity, for newly licensed medicines**
39
A 30-year-old woman in her second trimester of pregnancy presents to the pharmacy complaining of ongoing constipation. She has been eating more fibre and drinking more fluids, but this has not improved her symptoms. She has no other medical conditions and is not taking any regular medication. Which one of the following is the most appropriate recommendation? A) Senna tablets B) Docusate sodium capsules C) Lactulose oral solution D) Bisacodyl suppositories E) Magnesium hydroxide mixture
**C) Lactulose oral solution** In pregnancy, bulk-forming laxatives are considered first-line, but if ineffective, osmotic laxatives such as lactulose are considered safe and effective. Stimulant laxatives like senna or bisacodyl are generally reserved for short-term use and may cause uterine contractions in high doses. Docusate can be considered, but lactulose has a longer track record of safe use in pregnancy.
40
As part of a controlled drugs audit in your pharmacy, the Responsible Pharmacist asks you to confirm which medicines in the CD register require legal storage under safe custody. Which one of the following medicines is subject to safe custody requirements in community pharmacy? A) Diazepam 5mg tablets B) Tramadol 50mg capsules C) Codeine phosphate 30mg tablets D) Flunitrazepam 1mg tablets E) Zopiclone 7.5mg tablets
**D) Flunitrazepam 1mg tablets** Schedule 2 controlled drugs, except for quinalbarbitone (secobarbital) and certain Schedule 3 controlled drugs must be stored in a locked CD cabinets. Although Schedule 3 drugs are generally exempt from safe custody requirements, there are exceptions. The following CD3s do require safe custody: - Buprenorphine - Diethylpropion - Flunitrazepam - Temazepam (Ben Doesn't Feel Tired)
41
Mr P who presents with painful mouth ulcers that developed two weeks ago. He has been managing the pain using corticosteroid lozenges, which initially reduced both discomfort and ulcer size. However, the night before, he noticed new ulcers forming, accompanied by increasing pain. He has also reported feeling lethargic and experiencing frequent episodes of pins and needles. A blood test has been requested by the GP. Which one of the following is the most appropriate treatment to help manage Mr P’s aphthous mouth ulcers at this stage? A) Amoxicillin capsules B) Fluconazole capsules C) Prednisolone tablets D) Nystatin oral suspension E) Benzydamine hydrochloride oral rinse
**E) Benzydamine hydrochloride oral rinse** Benzydamine is a locally acting analgesic and anti-inflammatory that provides symptomatic relief for painful mouth ulcers. Corticosteroid lozenges are already being used, and systemic corticosteroids like prednisolone are not typically first-line unless ulcers are severe and persistent. Antibacterial (amoxicillin) and antifungal (fluconazole, nystatin) treatments are not appropriate unless there is clear evidence of secondary infection. Benzydamine rinse can be used as an adjunct for pain relief during ulcer flare-ups.
42
A 36-year-old Caucasian woman is diagnosed with gestational diabetes at 19 weeks' gestation. Her fasting plasma glucose level is 7.6 mmol/L, and her BMI is 33 kg/m². She has no significant past medical history. Her healthcare team has advised dietary and lifestyle changes, but ask for advice on starting pharmacological treatment. Which one of the following is the most appropriate initial pharmacological treatment? A) Metformin B) Gliclazide C) Exenatide D) Pioglitazone E) Isophane insulin
**E) Isophane insulin** NICE guidance recommends that insulin therapy should be initiated immediately in women diagnosed with gestational diabetes who have a fasting plasma glucose level above 7.0 mmol/L at the time of diagnosis. Insulin can be started with or without metformin, but it remains the primary treatment of choice in this context due to the increased risk of complications with higher fasting glucose levels. Metformin may be used if fasting plasma glucose is below 7.0 mmol/L and dietary measures fail. Gliclazide, pioglitazone, and exenatide are not recommended during pregnancy due to safety concerns.
43
Mr A is a 53-year-old patient who has been prescribed Tobradex® eye drops (tobramycin/dexamethasone) and Yellox® eye drops (bromfenac sodium) for post-operative eye care following cataract surgery. He has been instructed to use: Week 1: Tobradex® one drop four times daily, Yellox® one drop twice daily Week 2: Tobradex® one drop three times daily, Yellox® one drop twice daily Which one of the following is the most appropriate counselling point to give Mr A? A) When two different eye preparations must be used at the same time, leave an interval of at least 5 minutes between each eye drop B) When two different eye preparations must be used at the same time, leave an interval of at least 15 minutes between each eye drop C) Both eye drops can be applied at the same time with no interval between the 2 D) It is important to completely wash the eyes thoroughly before applying each eye drop E) Both eye preparations can be mixed to allow for ease in administration from a single bottle
**A) When two different eye preparations must be used at the same time, leave an interval of at least 5 minutes between each eye drop** When administering multiple topical ophthalmic preparations, patients should be advised to leave at least a 5-minute gap between each different eye drop to prevent one from diluting or washing out the other. This helps ensure optimal absorption and therapeutic effect.
44
A 51-year-old woman attends your pharmacy asking for something to help relieve her haemorrhoids. She has previously used Anugesic-HC cream prescribed by her GP, which she found effective. She would now like to purchase something over the counter with similar action, if available. Which one of the following would be the most appropriate recommendation? A) Anusol Plus HC ointment B) Xyloproct ointment C) Ultraproct ointment D) Uniroid-HC ointment E) Scheriproct ointment
**A) Anusol Plus HC ointment** Anusol Plus HC contains hydrocortisone and lidocaine and is available as a pharmacy (P) medicine without the need for a prescription. This makes it the most suitable OTC option for a patient seeking similar symptomatic relief to Anugesic-HC, which also contains a corticosteroid and local anaesthetic The other listed products (Xyloproct, Ultraproct, Uniroid-HC, and Scheriproct) are all prescription-only medicines (POMs) and cannot legally be supplied without a prescription.
45
Mr L is a 67-year-old man who has recently been initiated on isosorbide mononitrate 40 mg twice a day for the management of stable angina, following a recommendation by a hospital specialist. When Mr L comes to your pharmacy to collect his repeat prescription, he mentions that although he is taking the medicine as prescribed, he has started experiencing occasional throbbing headaches, particularly shortly after taking the dose Which one of the following is the most appropriate advice to give to Mr L? A) Advise Mr L that the symptom he has described is not known to be caused by isosorbide mononitrate B) Advise Mr L to see his GP as the dose of isosorbide mononitrate may need to be increased C) Advise Mr L to see his GP as the dose of isosorbide mononitrate may need to be reduced D) Advise Mr L that he is experiencing a side effect of isosorbide mononitrate; it is safe to continue taking it, but he may wish to see his GP if the headaches persist E) Advise Mr L to stop taking the medication straight away and contact his hospital doctor
**D) Advise Mr L that he is experiencing a side effect of isosorbide mononitrate; it is safe to continue taking it, but he may wish to see his GP if the headaches persist** Throbbing headache is a common and well-recognised adverse effect of nitrate therapy, including isosorbide mononitrate. It usually occurs early in treatment and often subsides with continued use as tolerance develops. Patients should be reassured that it is a known effect, and advised not to stop the medication abruptly without medical review, especially since it is being used for angina prophylaxis. If the headaches remain troublesome, the GP may consider a dose adjustment or switch to a different anti-anginal agent.
46
A mother presents at the pharmacy with her 3-month-old baby, asking for advice about colic. She explains that the baby cries frequently in the evenings, draws up his legs, and passes wind often. This has been happening for the past 2 weeks. The baby is otherwise feeding well and has no vomiting, fever, or diarrhoea. After discussing non-pharmacological strategies and ruling out red flags, you decide to supply an over-the-counter product licensed for infantile colic. Which one of the following is the most likely active ingredient in the product you recommend? A) Alginic acid B) Aluminium hydroxide C) Simeticone D) Magnesium trisilicate E) Hydroaltacite
C) Simeticone This is an anti-foaming agent that helps reduce gas and bloating in the gastrointestinal tract. It is the most commonly used active ingredient in licensed colic treatments such as Infacol®, which is indicated for relief of infantile colic and is safe from birth. Simeticone is considered safe and effective for symptomatic relief, although non-drug advice such as winding, feeding techniques, and soothing methods remain first-line.
47
Miss R now informs you that she would like to begin driving lessons and is aware that she must notify the DVLA of her medical condition before applying for a provisional licence. What is the maximum fine Miss R may face if she fails to inform the DVLA about her epilepsy? A) £200 B) £500 C) £800 D) £1000 E) £2500
D) £1000 According to the DVLA guidelines, people with medical conditions such as epilepsy must notify the DVLA if the condition may affect their ability to drive safely. Failing to do so is a criminal offence and can lead to a fine of up to £1000. Additionally, if an individual withholds this information and is subsequently involved in an accident, prosecution may follow. This regulation exists to ensure public and personal safety on the road.
48
A few weeks later, Miss R returns to the pharmacy feeling disappointed. She explains that her application for a provisional driving licence was not accepted. She has been informed by the DVLA that she must reapply once she has met the required minimum seizure-free period. Which one of the following is the correct seizure-free period required by the DVLA before Miss R can legally learn to drive a car or motorbike? A) 6 months B) 8 months C) 12 months D) 18 months E) 24 months
C) 12 months According to DVLA medical standards, a person with epilepsy may apply for a Group 1 driving licence (cars and motorcycles) only if they have been seizure-free for at least 12 months, regardless of whether they are on antiepileptic medication. This rule helps ensure public safety and allows the DVLA to assess the likelihood of seizure recurrence. If Miss R has been seizure-free for less than 12 months, her application would be declined, and she must wait until she meets the minimum threshold before reapplying.
49
Which one of the following is not a recognised health benefit associated with CHC use? A) Reduced risk of endometrial cancer B) Reduced dysmenorrhoea C) Improvement of acne D) Reduced menopausal symptoms E) Reduced risk of dementia
E) Reduced risk of dementia Combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) have multiple recognised non-contraceptive benefits, including: * Reduced risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer * Improved control of menstrual-related symptoms such as dysmenorrhoea and menorrhagia * Improvement in acne in some women due to suppression of androgens * Cycle regulation and reduction of premenstrual syndrome symptoms However, reduced risk of dementia is not an evidence-based benefit of CHC use. In fact, some studies have raised concerns over the long-term cognitive effects of hormonal therapies, though data remains inconclusive.
50
A 19-year-old student visits your pharmacy seeking advice for hay fever symptoms. He describes nasal congestion, frequent sneezing, and watery eyes. He has no other medical conditions, takes no regular medicines, and mentions that he has exams in two weeks and does not want anything that will make him drowsy. Which one of the following would be the most appropriate recommendation? A) Loratadine tablets B) Chlorphenamine tablets C) Promethazine tablets D) Fluticasone nasal spray E) Cetirizine tablets
**D) Fluticasone nasal spray** For patients presenting with nasal congestion alongside sneezing and watery eyes, intranasal corticosteroids such as fluticasone are considered the most effective treatment option. They address both inflammatory symptoms and congestion, which antihistamines alone may not fully relieve Avoid sedating antihistamines like Chlorphenamine and Promethazine. Cetirizine and Loratidine are not sedating but they are unlikely to help with the nasal congestion
51
A young mother visits the pharmacy with her infant and would like advice on teething, as her 3-month-old son seems to be in a lot of pain and is struggling to sleep at night. Which one of the following OTC treatments would be the least appropriate to recommend? A) Bonjela Cool Mint® B) Calgel® C) Ashton and Parsons Infant Powder® D) Anbesol® Teething Gel E) Teetha®
A) Bonjela Cool Mint® Bonjela Cool Mint® contains salicylate, a derivative of aspirin, which is not suitable for children under 16 years due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition. It is specifically contraindicated in infants and young children, making itthe least appropriate option in this scenario For infants under 6 months, it is crucial to only recommend products that are specifically licensed for use in that age group, and Bonjela Cool Mint® does not meet that criterion.
52
You are the responsible pharmacist when a doctor calls your pharmacy on a Friday evening at 7pm and requests an emergency supply of a salbutamol inhaler for Master A, a 10-year-old boy. You assess the need for an immediate supply and are satisfied that the prescriber is unable to provide a prescription due to the surgery being closed and that the supply is clinically appropriate. Which one of the following is the most appropriate timeframe within which the prescription must be received for this emergency supply to remain legal? A) 12 hours B) 24 hours C) 48 hours D) 72 hours E) 120 hours
D) 72 hours Under the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, when a pharmacist makes an emergency supply at the request of a prescriber, the prescriber must provide a written prescription within 72 hours of the supply. This applies even if the prescriber is not the patient’s usual doctor, as long as they are able to provide the appropriate prescription within the required legal timeframe. In this case, a salbutamol inhaler is not a Controlled Drug and can be supplied in an emergency without a prescription, provided all conditions are met —including the prescriber undertaking to provide a prescription within 72 hours. The pharmacist must record the supply in the Prescription-Only Medicine (POM) register at the time of supply.
53
Mrs J, a 48-year-old woman, presents with symptoms of dysuria and haematuria. She has recently completed a course of chemotherapy. Which one of the following cytotoxic drugs is most likely to be responsible for these symptoms? A) Methotrexate B) Cisplatin C) Cyclophosphamide D) Cisplatin E) Doxorubicin
C) Cyclophosphamide Cyclophosphamide is a well-known cause of haemorrhagic cystitis due to its metabolite acrolein, which is excreted in urine and irritates the bladder mucosa. Methotrexate and doxorubicin are associated with other toxicities but not specifically haemorrhagic cystitis. Cisplatin is nephrotoxic but not associated with this particular condition.
54
Mrs J has been diagnosed with haemorrhagic cystitis, suspected to be secondary to her chemotherapy treatment. The condition is known to be caused by a toxic metabolite. Which one of the following metabolites is most likely responsible? A) Ethanol B) Glycerol C) Acrolein D) Aspartic acid E) Lactic acid
C) Acrolein Acrolein is the toxic metabolite of cyclophosphamide and ifosfamide that causes direct irritation and inflammation of the bladder lining, leading to haemorrhagic cystitis. Preventive strategies are essential in patients receiving high-dose cyclophosphamide.
55
Mrs J has now been prescribed a medication to prevent further urothelial toxicity caused by her chemotherapy. Which one of the following drugs is most likely to have been prescribed? A) Mesna B) Trimethoprim C) Nitrofurantoin D) Sodium citrate E) Potassium citrate
A) Mesna Mesna (mercaptoethane sulfonate) is routinely co-administered with cyclophosphamide or ifosfamide to neutralise acrolein in the bladder and prevent urotoxicity. It binds to acrolein, rendering it inactive, and thereby protects the urothelium.
56
Mrs H brings her infant into the GP surgery for their first routine childhood immunisation, known as the 6-in-1 vaccine, which provides protection against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b, and hepatitis B. This vaccine is given in a series of three doses starting from 8 weeks of age. When should the infant receive the second dose of the 6-in-1 vaccine? A 9 weeks B 10 weeks C 11 weeks D 12 weeks E 13 weeks
D 12 weeks According to the NHS childhood immunisation schedule, the 6-in-1 vaccine is administered at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age. The second dose is due 4 weeks after the first, making 12 weeks the correct interval for the next administration. Giving the vaccine tooearly may reduce the effectiveness and not align with the established immunisation schedule.
57
A 3-year-old girl is admitted to A&E following an urgent GP referral. She has had a persistent fever for the past 4 days, a temperature of 39°C, bilateral conjunctival redness, and cervical lymphadenopathy. A lumbar puncture reveals no raised cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure. Her blood test results are shown below: - White blood cells = 25.0 × 10⁹/L [4.5 – 11.0 × 10⁹/L] - Platelets = 700 × 10⁹/L [150 – 400 × 10⁹/L] - C-reactive protein (CRP) = 20 mg/L [<10 mg/L] Which one of the following is the most likely diagnosis? A) Kawasaki disease B) Meningitis C) Hepatic encephalopathy D) Measles E) Scarlet fever
A) Kawasaki disease Kawasaki disease is a vasculitic condition that most commonly affects children under the age of 5. It typically presents with a persistent fever (lasting 5 or more days), bilateral conjunctivitis, cervical lymphadenopathy, rash, mucosal inflammation, and extremity changes. Blood test findings may include markedly raised inflammatory markers (e.g. CRP), leukocytosis, and thrombocytosis, all of which are seen here. CSF findings are usually normal, helping to distinguish this from meningitis. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent coronary artery complications.
58
A 56-year-old man has fainted on the street and appears unconscious. You assess him and confirm that he is breathing and has a pulse, but he does not respond to verbal prompts. Which one of the following would be the most appropriate immediate action to carry out? A) Begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) B) Lay him on his back and raise his legs C) Rub sweet honey on the inside of his cheek D) Begin to massage his head E) Rub his hands and try to warm them u
B) Lay him on his back and raise his legs This patient is breathing and has a pulse, which means CPR is not appropriate. The best first aid response for a person who has fainted but is breathing is to lay them on their back and elevate the legs. This position helps restore blood flow to the brain and can aid in recovery from fainting (syncope). Administering sugar-based products (such as honey) is only appropriate for conscious hypoglycaemic patients. Massaging or rubbing parts of the body is not a recommended or evidence-based emergency intervention for fainting.
59
A palliative care patient is receiving diamorphine for pain control and has been vomiting for the past 24 hours despite the use of haloperidol. Which one of the above anti-emetic options is the most appropriate next step in management? A) Metoclopramide B) Domperidone C) Cyclizine D) Ondansetron E) Levomepromazine F) Dexamethasone G) Haloperidol H) Promethazine
E) Levomepromazine Levomepromazine is commonly used in palliative care as a broad-spectrum anti-emetic and is effective in patients where other agents, such as haloperidol, have failed. It is particularly beneficial when nausea and vomiting are multifactorial or when centrally acting causes are suspected. It also has sedative properties, which can be helpful in the palliative context.
60
Mr C has a creatinine clearance of 13 mL/min and has been feeling nauseous with two episodes of vomiting. Which one of the above would be the most suitable anti-emetic for Mr C? A) Metoclopramide B) Domperidone C) Cyclizine D) Ondansetron E) Levomepromazine F) Dexamethasone G) Haloperidol H) Promethazine
D) Ondansetron Ondansetron is a 5HT3 receptor antagonist with minimal renal clearance, making it appropriate for patients with significant renal impairment. It is effective for controlling nausea and vomiting and does not pose the same risks of extrapyramidal side effects or QT prolongation at standard doses when compared to some other agents.
61
Mrs Y is an 83-year-old woman with Parkinson’s disease. The medical team would like to initiate a treatment with an anti-emetic to control her nausea and vomiting. Which one of the above would be the most appropriate choice? A) Metoclopramide B) Domperidone C) Cyclizine D) Ondansetron E) Levomepromazine F) Dexamethasone G) Haloperidol H) Promethazine
B) Domperidone Domperidone is considered safer in Parkinson’s disease as it does not cross the blood-brain barrier, reducing the risk of worsening extrapyramidal symptoms. Alternatives like metoclopramide or haloperidol are dopamine antagonists that may worsen motor symptoms and should be avoided.
62
A 33-year-old male has been taking bendroflumethiazide 5mg daily for peripheral oedema for the past month and he is complaining of this side effect. Which of the following is the most likely side effect? A) Swollen ankle B) Rhabdomyolysis C) Anxiety D) Hair loss E) Erectile dysfunction F) Nightmares G) Hypoglycaemia H) Hyperhidrosis
E) Erectile dysfunction Thiazide diuretics like bendroflumethiazide are known to cause erectile dysfunction as a side effect due to decreased vascular perfusion and potential psychological impacts.
63
"This medicine may make you sleepy. If this happens, do not drive or use tools or machines." Which of the follow drugs contain this warning label? A) Sumatriptan B) Simvastatin C) Flucloxacillin D) Alendronic acid E) Methotrexate F) Sodium valproate G) Digoxin H) Doxycycline
A) Sumatriptan Sumatriptan, a serotonin (5HT1) receptor agonist used for acute migraine, may cause drowsiness. Patients should be cautioned that if affected, they should avoid driving or operating machinery.
64
Mr A is 68 years old and has been diagnosed with chronic heart failure. He has been taking a loop diuretic for peripheral oedema and has been prescribed a beta-blocker at an initial dose of 3.125mg twice daily. Which one of the above beta-blockers has most likely been prescribed? A) Lisinopril B) Bendroflumethiazide C) Furosemide D) Bisoprolol E) Nebivolol F) Carvidolol G) Hydralazine + nitrates H) Ivabradine
F) Carvidolol Carvedilol is one of the three beta-blockers (alongside bisoprolol and nebivolol) licensed for the treatment of chronic heart failure. It is often initiated at 3.125mg twice daily and titrated upwards depending on clinical response and tolerability.
65
A newly diagnosed patient with heart failure and pre-existing hypertension developed a persistent dry cough after starting an ACE inhibitor. They also have a known intolerance to ARBs. Which one of the above is the most suitable first-line alternative? A) Lisinopril B) Bendroflumethiazide C) Furosemide D) Bisoprolol E) Nebivolol F) Carvidolol G) Hydralazine + nitrates H) Ivabradine
G) Hydralazine + nitrates This combination is recommended for patients with heart failure who cannot tolerate ACE inhibitors or ARBs, due to side effects such as a persistent dry cough. It is especially beneficial in patients with hypertension and systolic dysfunction.
66
A woman comes into the community pharmacy and asks for your advice on what paracetamol dose she should give her 2-year-old child for fever. What dose of paracetamol is appropriate for a 2-year-old child? o 60mg every 4-6 hours (max QDS) o 120mg every 4-6 hours (max QDS) o 180mg every 4-6 hours (max QDS) o 240mg every 4-6 hours (max QDS) o 360mg every 4-6 hours (max QDS)
o 180mg every 4-6 hours (max QDS)
67
You are conducting a medication review for a patient at your practice.Their medical history includes the following: - Depression/anxiety (diagnosed 2018) - Asthma (diagnosed 2007) - Heartburn (diagnosed 2015) - Nocturnal leg cramps (diagnosed 2018) - Hypertension (diagnosed 2 days ago) Their medication list is below: Acute Medication: - 28 x Losartan 50mg OD (issued 2 days ago) - 28 x Diazepam 2mg TDS PRN (issued 6months ago) - 1 x Salbutamol inhaler (last issued 7 months ago) Repeat medication: (all have been issued monthly for the past 12 months) - 28 x Priadel (lithium) 400mg OD (last issued 1 week ago) - 28 x Lansoprazole 30mg OD (last issued 1 week ago) - 28 x Fostair100/6 inhaler -1 puff BD (last issued 1 week ago) Based on the information provided, which potential issue are you are most concerned about, and should act upon first? o There is a drug interaction o You are concerned about compliance o One or more of the medications is not recommended long term o You are concerned about her asthma control o The dose of one of the medications is inappropriate
o There is a drug interaction There is a drug interaction between the patient’s newly prescribed losartan and Priadel (lithium). Losartan (an ARB), can increase lithium concentration, increasing the risk of toxicity–this is the most concerning issue that should be acted upon first
68
A mother presents to the pharmacy with her 5-year-old son, who has had cough and cold symptoms for the past 3 days. The main symptom is a dry tickly cough. Which of the following is the most appropriate action? o Refer to GP o Sell guaifenesin syrup o Sell dextromethorphan syrup o Sell glycerol and sucrose syrup o Sell ibuprofen
o Sell glycerol and sucrose syrup There are no red flags listed in the presentation so a referral to the GP is not necessary at this stage. OTC dextromethorphan and guaifenesin is not suitable for this patient due to his age. Guaifenesinis also indicated for productive coughs rather than dry coughs, as it is an expectorant. Ibuprofen may help with fever and pain but is unlikely to help with the cough which is the patient’s main symptom.Glyceryl and sucrose syrup is the most appropriate option for this patient.
69
You are conducting a revision session for trainee pharmacists regarding osteoarthritis and pain management. Which of the following statements regarding osteoarthritis is correct? o Regular paracetamol should be routinely recommended to patients for long term pain management for osteoarthritis o Exercise should be avoided in osteoarthritis o Glucosamine should be recommended in osteoarthritis o Morphine or oxycodone is recommended for pain management in osteoarthritis only if co-codamol is ineffective or not tolerated o Acupuncture should not be recommended for symptom relief inosteoarthritis
o Acupuncture should not be recommended for symptom relief inosteoarthritis Simple analgesia for osteoarthritis should only be used infrequently and short term. Exercise is recommended in osteoarthritis. Strong opioids should not be prescribed for pain management in osteoarthritis.Glucosamine and acupuncture should not be recommended for symptom reliefin osteoarthritis (this is due to the lack of evidence base – see the NICE CKS topic on osteoarthritis).
70
A 49-year-oldpatient presents to the pharmacy with heartburn. They have already tried omeprazole over the counter, but it hasn’t helped their symptoms. They mention that they have lost over a stone in weight over the past few months, but they haven’t made any changes to their diet or lifestyle, so they’re not sure why. What is the most appropriate action? o Refer patient to GP o Refer patient to A&E o Sell patient Gaviscon to help with symptoms, to take in addition to omeprazole o Sell patient Gaviscon to help with symptoms, to take instead of omeprazole o Provide diet and lifestyle advice
**o Refer patient to GP** This patient should be referred to the GP to investigate due to the red flag of weight loss and the fact that the PPI hasn’t helped their symptoms. The GP is the most appropriate route of referral, and they should be seen promptly by the GP.
71
You are working in a GP practice, and you receive a letter from a consultant requesting that a patient is started on a non-selective beta-blocker. Which of the following is a non-selective beta blocker? o Nebivolol o Bisoprolol o Atenolol o Metoprolol o Propranolol
o Propranolol Propranolol is a non-selective betablocker.The other betablockers listed above are relatively cardio-selective. Remember "Be A MAN" for cardioselective Beta-blockers B - Bisoprolol A - Atenolol M - Metoprolol A - Acebutolol N - Nebivolol
72
You are working as a GP practice pharmacist. You receive a prescription query from the local community pharmacy regarding a medication that must always be dispensed in the manufacturer’s original full pack, except for in exceptional circumstances. Which medication is being referred to? o Apixaban o Warfarin o Ciclosporin o Oxycodone o Sodium valproate
**o Sodium valproate** According to the recent MHRA alert (October 2023), medicines containing valproate must always be dispensed in the manufacturer’s original full pack, unless there are exceptional circumstances. This is to ensure that patients are provided with all the relevant material regarding the risks of valproate.
73
A patient reports having experienced a flare up of gout following initiation of a new medication. Which medication below is most likely to exacerbate gout? o Naproxen o Indapamide o Amlodipine o Diazepam o Diltiazem
o Indapamide Indapamide is a thiazide-like diuretic, which can exacerbate gout.
74
You are clinically checking a prescription that you have received for an adrenaline autoinjector. Which adrenaline autoinjector is suitable for a 7-year-old child for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis? o 100 microgram o 150 microgram o 300 microgram o 500 microgram o 1000 microgram
o 300 microgram Consult the BNFc – a 300 microgram adrenaline autoinjectoris appropriate for a child aged 6-11 years old.
75
You are discussing antibiotic counselling points with a trainee pharmacist. Which antibiotic requires monitoring for new or worsening respiratory symptoms? o Nitrofurantoin o Amoxicillin o Clarithromycin o Doxycycline o Meropenem
**o Nitrofurantoin** Nitrofurantoin carries a risk of pulmonary adverse effects and patients should be counselled to report any new or worsening pulmonary symptoms. This is based off a 2023 MHRA alert.
76
What are the cardioselective Beta blockers [Be A MAN]
B - Bisoprolol A - Atenolol M - Metoprolol A - Acebutolol N - Nebivolol
77
A woman comes into your pharmacy and tells you she is pregnant. She is asking for advice regarding OTC vitamin supplements. Which vitamin should be avoided during pregnancy? o Vitamin A o Vitamin D o Vitamin E o Vitamin K o Vitamin C
o Vitamin A Vitamin A should be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential teratogenic affect.
78
You measure a patient’s blood pressure as they have recently started losartan to manage their hypertension. They also have stage 3 CKD with proteinuria (ACR above 70 mg/mmol). They are 50 years old. According to NICE guidelines, what is their blood pressure target? o < 150/90 o < 140/90 o < 130/90 o < 130/80 o < 135/85
o < 130/80 According to NICE guidance, because they have CKD andan ACR of 70 mg/mmol or more, their BP target is less than 130/80 mmHg.
79
You are looking through a 5-year-oldboy’s red book. Which vaccine has this patient not yetreceived, if the routine immunisation schedulehas been followed? o HPV vaccine o MMR vaccine o Meningococcal group B vaccine o Diphtheriawith tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, poliomyelitis and haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine o Rotavirus vaccine
o HPV vaccine The HPV vaccine is offered at age 11-14 years old
80
A doctor asks for your advice regarding ibuprofen dosing for a 10-year-old child. What dose of ibuprofen is appropriate for a 10-year-old child? o 100mg TDS o 150mg TDS o 200mg TDS o 300mg TDS o 400mg TDS
o 300mg TDS
81
You are working in a hospital on a surgical ward. A patientis suffering from acute pain and his pain requirement is likely to change soon following his surgery,when his analgesia will likely need to be titrated. The patientdoes not currently take any medicationandhas no known allergies. The foundation doctor asks for your advice regarding pain relief. Which of the following options is the least appropriatefor the patient’s acute pain? o Bunov patch o Codeine o Paracetamol o Oramorphliquid o OxyNormliquid
o Bunov patch Bunovpatch is not appropriate for acute painor where pain relief requirements are rapidly changing.
82
A 5-year-oldchild has bullous impetigo. They have no known allergies. Which of the following antibiotics is most appropriate? o Amoxicllin o Co-amoxiclav o Flucloxacillin o Doxycycline o Clindamycin
o Flucloxacillin Flucloxacillin is the first line antibiotic choice in bullous impetigo.
83
A patient tells you that she has been invited to the surgery for a blood test to check her B12 levels due to one of the medications she is taking. Which medication is this monitoring most likely to be for? o Gliclazide o Metformin o Fluvastatin o Furosemide o Levothyroxine
o Metformin B12 deficiency is a common side effect of metformin. This based off a June 2022 MHRA alert. Periodic monitoring should be considered in patients who have risk factors for B12 deficiency.
84
You are completing your annual revalidation for your pharmacist registration. You need to complete one peer discussion record, and one reflective account record. In addition, you must also complete some CPD records. How many CPD records are you required to submit each year as part of your pharmacist revalidation? o 2 CPD records o 4 CPD records o 6 CPD records o 8 CPD records o 12 CPD records
o 4 CPD records
85
You are working as a GP practice pharmacist. A 15-year-oldgirl is prescribed Equasym XL (methylphenidate) for ADHD. There is a shared care agreement in place between the specialist and the GP. Her mum rings up the surgery and tells you that she has rung around several pharmacies and no pharmacies have any brand of methylphenidate in stock. The mum tells you that they have lisdexamphetamine in stock. What is the most appropriate course of action? o Change the prescription to lisdexamphetamine o Change the prescription to atomoxetine as this is not a controlled drug o Contact the ADHD specialist and ask them to review the patient’s treatment o Tell the patient that they will have to just wait until it is back in stock as there are no other alternatives o Ask the patient if she would like to try mirtazapineinstead
o Contact the ADHD specialist and ask them to review the patient’s treatment You should contact the ADHD specialist and ask them to review the patient’s treatmentas treatment should be initiated by the specialist and only transferred over to the GP oncethe patient is stable.The other options are not appropriate
86
A patient comes into the pharmacy requesting to buy twoboxes of Benadryl Allergy Relief Plus Decongestant Capsules (this contains 60mg pseudoephedrine per capsuleand 8mg acrivastineper capsule).Each box contains 12 capsules.He has symptoms of allergic rhinitis. What is the most appropriate course of action? o Decline the sale as you cannot sell this quantity of pseudoephedrine o Decline the sale as you cannot sell this quantity of acrivastine o Sell theproducts that the patient has requested o Report the patient to the GPhC o Ring the police
o Decline the sale as you cannot sell this quantity of pseudoephedrine The patient is trying to buy two boxes; each capsule contains 60mg pseudoephedrine and there are 12 capsules per box, so 2 boxes would be 24 capsules. Total quantity of pseudoephedrine = 24x 60mg = 1440mg. The sale should be declined because it is against the law tosupply any product that containsover 720 mg pseudoephedrine or over 180 mg ephedrine without a prescription
87
When a medication has a "use by" date on it, when is the last day it can be taken?
The last day of the month before If the use by date is June 2025, this medication should not be used after the 31st may 2025
88
What is the interaction risk of giving tramadol and lithium? o Risk of bleeding o Risk of QT prolongation o Risk of serotonin syndrome o Reduced seizure threshold o Risk of nephrotoxicty o Risk of myopathy o Risk of hypotension o Risk of hypertension
o Risk of serotonin syndrome
89
Which of these long acting insulins can be given BD? - Insulin Detemir - Insulin Glargine - Insulin Degludec
- Insulin Detemir The other 2 are once daily
90
What drug used in Rheumatoid Arthritis should have a routine eye test annually after having treatemnt for at least 5 years?
**Hydroxychloroquine** Hydroxychloroquine carries a risk of retinopathy. Annual ophthalmological monitoring is recommended in patients who have taken hydroxychloroquine for over 5 years, although note that this may be started earlier when there are risk factors for retinopathy
91
What DMARD used in active Rheumatoid Arthritis should have a blood pressure check as part of the monitoring for this medication?
**Leflunomide** This drug should have regualr blood pressure monitoring as hypertension is a common side effect of the medication. Other things to monitor: FBCs and liver function (hepatotoxicity)
92
Which of these drugs MUST be prescribed by brand when given orally? - Sodium Valroate - Amiodarone - Digoxin - Tacrolimus - Leflunomide - Warfarin - Hydroxychloroquine - Carbimazole
Tacrolimus Oral tacrolimus must be prescribed and dispensed by brandname, as switching between brands has been linked to cases of toxicity and graft rejection.This is based off a 2017 MHRA alert.
93
A patient attends for a blood test for thyroid function tests, liver function tests, and serum potassium before starting treatment with this medication. Which of the following medications require these tests before initiating treatment? - Tacrolimus - Sodium Valroate - Amiodarone - Digoxin - Tacrolimus - Leflunomide - Warfarin - Hydroxychloroquine - Carbimazole
Amiodarone Before treatment, amiodarone requires monitoring ofthyroid function tests,liver function tests, and serum potassium (and alsoa chest x-ray).
94
Which of the following creams contain antimicrobials and can only be given on prescription? o Hydrocortisone 1% cream o Timodine cream o Permethrin cream o Coal tar ointment o Clobetasone cream o Clobetasol cream o E45 cream o Dermol 500 lotion
Timodine Cream Thsi is a combination product that contains Hydrocortisone, benzalkonium chloride, dimeticone and nystatin. It is a POM Permetrhin is a P medicine
95
Which of the following steroid creams are available OTC from the age of 12 upwards? o Hydrocortisone 1% cream o Timodine cream o Permethrin cream o Coal tar ointment o Clobetasone cream o Clobetasol cream o E45 cream o Dermol 500 lotion
Clobetasone cream (Eumovate) Clobetasone cream (Eumovate) is available OTC and is licensed for children over 12 years old. Note that hydrocortisone 1% cream is also available OTC but the minimum licensing age is 10 years old
96
What is the licensing age for Sumatriptan OTC?
18 to 65 years old
97
What is the licensing age for Benky peroxide gel for acne OTC?
12 years and above
98
What is the licensing age for Viagra Connect OTC?
18 years old and above
99
What should the maximum supply of co-codamol be OTC?
3 days This is due to the risk of addiction.
100
Which of the following is a COMT inhibitor which may discolour urine reddish-brown. o Ropinirole o Rasagiline o Rotigotine o Entacapone o Amantadine o Co-beneldopa o Co-careldopa o Apomorphine
o Entacapone Entacapone is a COMT inhibitor. Patients should be counselled that entacapone can cause urine to be coloured reddish-brown. Roinerole, Rasagiline, Rotigotine, Amantadine, and Apomorphine are dopamine agonists Co-benldopa and Co-careldopa are forms of Levodopa
101
Which of the following can be given by subcutaneous injection or by continuous subcutaneous infusion? o Ropinirole o Rasagiline o Rotigotine o Entacapone o Amantadine o Co-beneldopa o Co-careldopa o Apomorphine
o Apomorphine Apomorphine is a dopamine receptor agonist which can be given as a subcutaneous injectionor by continuous subcutaneous infusion.
102
Which of the following conditions would require the patient to continue using folic acid throughout the entire pregnancy? A. Coeliac disease B. Epilepsy C. Haemoglobin S Disease D. Obesity E. Pre-eclampsia
C. Haemoglobin S Disease Only Haemoglobin S disease (Sickl Cell) requires folic acid to be taken for the whole duration of pregnancy. Pregnant women that are obese, epileptic, have ceoliac disease are recommeded to take folic acid 5mg up to 12 weeks getsatiopn. Although Pre-eclampsia does not increase the risk of neural tube defects itslelf, it is still recommened to take 400mchg of folic acid up to 12 weeks gestation.
103
A 3-year-old girl has been brought into A&E with suspected meningitis. She has a temperature of 39°C, tiny purple spots that are firm, and is very lethargic. The patient is allergic to cephalosporins; the last time she took this type of antibiotic, her airways swelled up. You are the on-call hospital pharmacist and have been asked to recommend an appropriate antibiotic for this patient. Which of the following antibiotics would be the most appropriate to recommend? A. Benzylpenicillin IV B. Cefotaxime IV C. Chloramphenicol IV D. Gentamicin SC E. Teicoplanin IV
C. Chloramphenicol IV For the treatment of meningococcal diseases benzylpenicillin is recommended, however due to cross-sensitivity between Benzylpenicillins and Cephalosporins this would not be an appropriate treatment option. If there is a history of hypersensitivity reactions (excludingrash) to penicillin’s and cephalosporins, then chloramphenicol is recommended
104
A 4-year-old child has been rushed into your community pharmacy after a wasp sting a few minutes ago. The child’s lips are swollen, and they are experiencing difficulty breathing. Suspecting an anaphylactic reaction, you decide to administer adrenaline using an appropriate syringe. Which of the following strengths of adrenaline would be appropriate to administer to this child? A 150 milligrams, then repeated after 5–15 minutes as required B 150 micrograms, then repeated after 5–15 minutes as required C 300 micrograms, then repeated after 5–15 minutes as required D 500 micrograms, then repeated after 5–15 minutes as required E 500 milligrams, then repeated after 5–15 minutes as required
B 150 micrograms, then repeated after 5–15 minutes as required - For Child up to 6 months = 100–150 micrograms - For Child 6 month – 5 years (<15kg) = 150 micrograms - ForChild - 6–11 years (>30kg) = 300 micrograms - For Child 12 years old and over = 500 micrograms (300 micrograms to be administered if child is small or pre-pubertal)
105
Which antidiabetic medication has the highest risk of causing upper respiratory tract infections? A. Canagliflozin B. Gliclazide C. Insulin D. Metformin E. Sitaglipti
E. Sitagliptin A common side effect of Sitagliptin, Saxagliptin and Alogliptin is upper respiratory tract infection and nasopharyngitis. The other options listed do not have this increased risk.
106
What is the Overnight Dexamethasone Suppression Test and what is it used to diagnose/rule out?
Screening tool used to help diagnose or rule out Cushing's syndrome 1 mg oral dexamethasone is given between 11 pm and midnight, and a blood sample for cortisol level is taken between 8 am and 9 am the next morning. Dexamethasone inhibits the prodction of cortisol If cortisol levels remain high, it may indicate Cushing's syndrome.
107
In which conditions can the concentration of theophyline be increased?
Congestive heart failure, chronic alcoholism, hepatic dysfunction, or viral infections
108
A 45-year-old woman has severe osteoarthritis. Her pain has been managed with intra-articular steroid injections to the knee and analgesics, but without success. She is due to have a knee operation in 24 hours. Undergoing major surgery sometimes requires alterations to a patient’s medication. Which of the following medications should be stopped temporarily before the surgery? A. Sodium Valproate B. Lithium C. Rotigotine D. Flupentixol E. Levothyroxine
B. Lithium Lithium should be stopped 24 hours before major surgery, however in a minor surgery the usual dose can be continued with careful monitoring. Other drugs that should be stopped before surgery include: - Hormone contraceptives - MAOIs - ACE-I/ARBs (stop 24 hours before surgery).
109
A 70-year-old man who is being treated for open-angle glaucoma. He complains that his eyelashes have grown longer and that his eye colour has changed since using an eye drop. Which of the following anti-glaucoma medications could be responsible for this adverse effect? A. Acetazolamide B. Brimonidine C. Latanoprost D. Pilocarpine E. Timolol
C. Latanoprost Prostaglandin analogues can cause brown pigmentation of the iris and can cause hair growth.
110
Which NSAIDs have a high, medium and lower risk of bleeding?
Highest risk = piroxicam, ketoprofen, and ketorolac Medium risk = indometacin, diclofenac, and naproxen Low risk = iburprofen and COX-2 inhibitors (lowest)
111
Which NSAIDs have an increased risk of cardiovascular events?
Highest risk = COX-2 inhibitors, Ibuprofen (2.4g daily) and diclofenac (150 mg daily)
112
An 18-year-old woman is taking isotretinoin 20mg three times daily. She has been taking this medication for the past 4 weeks. She regularly participates in the pregnancy prevention programme and has consistently had negative pregnancy tests. She can see that the medication is working but has been feeling down recently and is having thoughts of self-harm. Which of the following would be the most appropriate advice to give? A. Continue taking isotretinoin and inform to your GP and your dermatology team B. Continue taking isotretinoin and inform your dermatologist at your next appointment C. Continue taking isotretinoin as this adverse effect improves with time D. Stop taking isotretinoin and inform to your GP and your dermatology team E. Withdraw isotretinoin slowly to prevent rebound acne
D. Stop taking isotretinoin and inform to your GP and your dermatology team Patients who present with mood or behaviour changes and showing any signs of a mental illness should stop their medication immediately and inform your GP and dermatology team This is a as per British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) patient guide
113
You are the Responsible Pharmacist (RP) of a community pharmacy and noticed that you have no stock of Espranor (buprenorphine) tablets for an MDA prescription. You decide to request the medication from a local pharmacy using a CD requisition. Which of the following is not a legal requirement for a CD requisition form? A. Name of the medication B. Name of the recipient C. Purpose of the requisition D. Signature of the recipient E. Total quantity of drug
A. Name of the medication Legal requirements of the CD requisition: 1. Name of the recipient 2. Address of the recipient 3. Profession or occupation 4. Total quantity of drug 5. Purpose of the requisition 6. Signature of the recipient.
114
What are the signs of Theophyline toxicity?
- Tachycardia - Dilated pupils - Nausea and Vomiting - Agitation - Seizures
115
Which CDs are exempt from safe storage?
- Gabapentin - Phenobarbitol - Pregabalin - Midazolam - Tramadol Great people make perfect tea
116
Which antimicrobial drugs commonly cause photosensitisation?
- Antibiotics: Tteracyclines, Quinolones, Co-trimoxazole (sulphonamide component) - Voriconazole (antifungal) - Hydroxychloroquine and Chloroquine (Antimalarials)
117
Which drugs (except antimicrobials) commonly cause photosensitisation?
- Amiodarone - Isotretanoin - Tacrolimus - Phenothiazine antipsychotics (levomepromazine, chlorpromazine, prochlorperazine, promazine) - Benzyol peroxide
118
Which antimicrobials can prolong QT?
- Antibiotics = macrolides, quinolones, aminoglycosides - Antifungals = itrakonazole, ketoconazole - Antimalarials = Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine
119
Which CNS drugs can prolong QT?
- Lithium - Sumatriptan - Anti-emetics = Metoclopramide / Ondansetron / Domperidone - SSRIs = Citalopram / Escitalopram - TCAs - Venlafaxine - Antipsychotics
120
Which antiarrythmic drugs can prolong QT interval?
- Amiodarone - Sotalol
121
Which drugs lower the seizure threshold?
- Quinolones - SSRIs - Antipsychotics - Tramadol - Theophylline - Lithium
122
Which drugs increase the risk of serotonin syndrome?
- Sumatriptan - Ondansetron - SSRIs - TCAs - MAOIs - St. Johns Wart
123
Which drugs increase the risk of ototoxcity?
- Aminoglycosides (Gentamycin / Amicacin) - Vancomycin - Cisplatin - Vinka alkaloids - Loop diuretics
124
Which cytotoxics are HIGHLY emetogenic?
CCD - Cyclophosphamide (high dose) - Cisplatin - Darcarbazine
125
Which cytotoxics are MODERATELY emetogenic?
Dont Touch Children's Midday Meals - Doxorubicin - Taxanes (Paclitaxel) - Cyclophosphamide (low/medium dose) - Methotrexate (high dose) - Mitoxantrone
126
Which 2 cytotoxics do NOT cause myelosupression?
- Vincristine - Bleomycin
127
Which Cytotoxics commonly cause Oral mucositis?
FL A ME - Flurouracil - Anthracyclines (Doxorubicin) - Methotrexate
128
Which cytotoxic drugs are known to produce Haemorrhagic cystitis?
Cyclophosphamide and Ifosphamide They both produce the toxic metabolite acrolein which causes
129
Theophylline TDM requirements
- 4-6 hours after dose - 3 days after dose change - 5 days after initiation
130
Which drugs do we have to pres-screen for TPMT before initiation and why?
- Azathiprine and Mercaptopurine Metabolises thiopurine drugs —> increased SE’s if enzyme is low
131
How long pefore H.Pylori testing do we stop a PPI?
2 weeks
132
How long pefore H.Pylori testing do we stop antibiotics?
4 weeks
133
Which drug do we have to reduce to 25% of the original drug when we give with Allopurinol?
Azathioprine
134
Which Immunosuppressant drug causes low levels of antibodies (Hypogammaglobulinaemia) , Bronchiectasis and Mylosupression?
Mycophenolate
135
How long is effective contraception needed for women taking Mycophenolate after completion of the course?
6 weeks of contraception
136
How long is effective contraception needed for men or partners of someone taking Mycophenolate after completion of the course?
90 days
137
How long is effective contraception needed for women taking Methotrexate after completion of the course?
6 months
138
What is the target level for Tacrolimus dosing?
5-15 mcg/L
139
What is the target level for Ciclosporin dosing in translpant patients
100 - 300 μg/L
140
Which cytotoxic medication is associated pulmonary toxicity
- Methotrexate - Cyclophosphamide - Bleomycin
141
How should you administer Vincristin to a child or teenager?
Should be given through a syringe
142
How should you administer Vincristine to an adult or adolescent?
Through a 50 mL minibag
143
What drugs can cause body fluids to turn RED?
- Co-danthromer - Doxorubicin
144
What do we give to patients with new onset AF who have had no assessment or anticoagulation given
Parenteral anticoagulation (Heparin)
145
What are the class 1 anti-arryhtmics?
Membrane stabilising drugs - Na+ channel blockers Examples = lidocaine & flecainide
146
What are the class 2 anti-arryhtmics?
Beta blockers
147
What are the class 3 anti-arryhtmics?
Potassium channel blockers - Amiodaraone and Sotalol (also class 2)
148
What are the class 4 anti-arryhtmics?
Calcium channel blockers (not dihydropyridines) - Diltiazem and Verapamil
149
In which patients do we NOT give rate-control first line?
- New onset AF - Atrial flutter suitable for an ablation strategy [use of heat or cold energy to block electrical signals and restore a normal heart rate] - AF with a reversible cause [MI, hyperthyroidism, PE, excess caffeine & alcohol] - Heart failure primarily caused by AF - Or if rhythm control is more suitable
150
What two drugs are used for rhythm control?
Amiodarone and Flecainide
151
What form of cardioversion do we give to patients with AF symptoms LESS than 48 hours of admission?
Pharmacological cardioversion - less invasive
152
When should anticoagution be used before electrical cardioversion and why?
3 weeks of anticoagulation Risk of the clot moving and potentiall causing a stroke
153
What can we give to patients if we cannot delay electrical cardioversion by 3 weeks and when?
Heparin IMMEDIATELY before cardioversion
154
How long should anticoagulation be given AFTER electrical cardioversion
4 weeks
155
What are the Scoring Points for the CHADSVASc score for stroke?
- Congestive Heart Failure = 1 - Hypertension = 1 - Age > 75 = 2 - Diabetes = 1 - Stroke/TIA = 2 - Vascular heart disease = 1 - Age 65-74 = 1 - Sex (female) = 1
156
What what CHADSVASc score do we consider giving anticoagulation?
2 or above Remember anticoagulants = AN2COAGULANTS
157
What are the Scoring Points for the ORBIT score for bleed risk?
- Older than 75 = 1 - Reduced Hb = 2 - Bleeding history = 2 - Impaired renal function (<60) = 1 - Treatments with antiplatelets = 1
158
What ORBIT score d we consider to be HIGH risk of bleed?
4 - 7
159
What ORBIT score do we consider to be MEDIUM risk of bleed?
3 - Remeber THREE makes you BLEED Anything less than 3 is considered low risk
160
What monitoring do we do with amiodarone?
● Thyroid function tests ● Liver function tests ● Serum potassium concentration - causes hypokalaemia ● Chest X-ray ● Annual eye tests ● ECG (with intravenous use) ● Blood pressure (BP)
161
How does amiodarone interact with lithium?
Increased risk of arrhythmias and QT prolongations
162
How does amiodarone interact with warfarin?
Increase plasma concentration (bleed risk)
163
How does amiodarone interact with digoxin?
Increase plasma concentration
164
How does amiodarone interact with phenytoin?
Increase plasma concentration
165
How does amiodarone interact with Ciclosporin?
Increase plasma concentration
166
How does amiodarone interact with statin?
Increased risk of myopathy
167
What is the therapeutic range of digoxin?
1 - 2 mcg/L
168
What electrolyte imbalances increase risk of digoxin toxicity?
- High Calcium - Low potassium - Low Magnesium
169
How do oxygen saturations affect digoxin?
Hypoxia can cause toxicty of digoxin
170
How can we prevent hypokalaemia in patients receiving digoxin?
- Give Sando K (K supplements) - Give a potassium sparing diuretic (spironolactone)
171
What are the symptoms of digoxin toxicity?
DANG SAT D – Diarrhea A – Abdominal pain N – Nausea/ Vomiting G – Green/yellow vision S – Skin reactions A – Arrhythmias (bradycardia, AV block) T – Tremors
172
What monitoring do we do with digoxin?
● Plasma-digoxin concentration ● Serum electrolytes ● Renal function
173
When do we take a digoxin concentration after a dose?
6 hours post administration
174