Drugs

Question 1

Dobutamine, Denopamine, Dopamine, Epinephrine, and Isoproterenol are examples of which drug class?

Answer 1

Beta 1 receptor (ADRB1) agonists

Question 2

Atenolol, Metoprolol, Bisoprolol are examples of which drug class?

Answer 2

Beta 1 receptor (ADRB1) antagonists. Commonly known as ‘beta blockers’

Question 3

Is isoproterenol a beta 1 (ADRB1) or beta 2 (ADRB2) agonist?

Answer 3

Both. Isoproterenol is a non-selective beta-agonist which stimulates both receptors.

Beta 1 stimulation = increased heart rate and contractile force
Beta 2 stimulation = bronchodilation and vasodilation

Question 4

Glyceryl Trinitrate
(Class, Use, Mechanism)

Answer 4

Class: Nitrovasodilator
Use: Angina, Heart Failure

Mechanism: GTN is converted to nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide dilates vessels. Dilated veins reduce preload and dilated arteries reduce afterload. Both actions decrease the hearts oxygen demand.

Question 5

What are the main precautions when prescribing benzodiazepines to elderly patients? (Diazepam, Lorazepam…)

Answer 5

Benzodiazepines increase the risk of falls and impair cognitive function.

*Benzodiazepines are positive allosteric modulators of GABA-A receptors. They enhance GABA’s inhibitory effects.

Question 6

What is the primary function of glucocorticoids?

Answer 6

Cortisol agonists.

Glucocorticoids regulate metabolism and suppress inflammation. Glucocorticoid receptors are located in the cytoplasm of most cells.

Question 7

Triamcinolone acetonide (Kenalog)
(class, use, mechanism)

Answer 7

Class: Glucocorticoid (corticosteroid)

Use: Dermatology, Rheumatology, Allergies

Mechanism: Binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors. Enters nucleus. Alters gene transcription. Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects generated

Question 8

Lidocaine
(class, use, mechanism)

Answer 8

Class: local anaesthetic

Use: Topical anaesthetic for skin procedures. Rapid onset (1-5 mins), intermediate duration (30-60 mins).

Mechanism: Blocks voltage gated Na+ channels, preventing nerve impulse transmission.

Question 9

Benzocaine
(Class, use, mechanism)

Answer 9

Class: local anaesthetic

Use: Topical anaesthetic for mouth ulcers, sore throat, and minor burns. Rapid onset (seconds), short duration (10-15 mins).

Mechanism: Blocks voltage gated Na+ channels, preventing nerve impulse transmission.

Question 10

When would you use Benzocaine instead of Lidocaine?

Answer 10

Both are rapid onset local anaesthetics. Benzoocaine has quicker onset (seconds / minutes) and shorter duration (15m / 30m).

Benzocaine also remains localised with minimal systemic absorption. Lidocaine is therefore better for prolonged anaesthesia.