Pharmacology & Prescribing

Question 1

First line for delirium
when contraindicated?

Answer 1

Haloperidol 0.5mg
contraindicated in PD and Lewy body dementia

Question 2

Why can’t verapamil and a beta blocker be given together

Answer 2

risk of complete heart block

Question 3

drugs for angina

Answer 3

GTN for attacks
one of beta-blocker of CCB such as nifedipine
if not controlled add the other

Question 4

what important adverse effects of aminoglycosides occur? (e.g. gentamicin)

Answer 4

amino glycosides such as gentamicin can cause ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity

Question 5

MOA aspirin

Answer 5

Blocks action of cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 so in turn blocks prostaglandins, prostacyclin, and thromboxane leading to anti platelet effects

Question 6

common side effect thiazide and thiazide like diuretics

Answer 6

dehydration
postural hypotension
hyponatraemia, hypokalaemia
sexual dysfunction
impaired glucose tolerance

Question 7

rare side effect thiazide like diuretic

Answer 7

pancreatitis
thrombocytopenia
agranulocytosis

Question 8

how is breakthrough pain managed

Answer 8

usually liquid or tablet opioid to prevent accumulation of opioid levels
needs to be quick acting and quick diminishing

Question 9

how can breakthrough pain occur

Answer 9

either due to an incident or to insufficient or irregular opioid dosing

Question 10

breakthrough morphine dose

Answer 10

1/10th to 1/6th of daily oral dose
give as a morphien sulphate solution