Nutritional Pharmacology

Question 1

What is defined as a substance that treats or prevents disease in humans according to the MHRA?

Answer 1

A medicine.

Question 2

Name the four main regulatory restrictions governing drugs.

Answer 2

1. Intended mode of action
2. Supply route (POM, Controlled medicines, PO, GSL)
3. Prescription only medications (POM)
4. Over-the-counter medications (OTC).

Question 3

What are OTC drugs commonly used for?

Answer 3

Self-medication for common illnesses.

Question 4

What are the two types of ingredients in a drug?

Answer 4

Active ingredients and inactive ingredients.

Question 5

What does ADME stand for in pharmacokinetics?

Answer 5

Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion.

Question 6

What is the purpose of first-pass metabolism?

Answer 6

It metabolizes drugs in the liver before they enter systemic circulation, which can reduce their effectiveness.

Question 7

What are common side effects of drugs?

Answer 7

Nausea, dizziness, headaches, and skin rashes.

Question 8

How do drugs interact with nutrients?

Answer 8

Some drugs can deplete nutrients, while certain foods and supplements can affect drug metabolism and effectiveness.

Question 9

What nutrient does Metformin commonly deplete?

Answer 9

Vitamin B12.

Question 10

Q: Name two common interactions that can occur with drugs and foods.

Answer 10

A: Garlic can interact with anticoagulants; grapefruit can inhibit CYP3A4, affecting statins.

Question 11

Q: What long-term risks are associated with the use of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)?

Answer 11

A: Increased risk of bone fractures, vitamin B12 deficiency, and gastrointestinal infections.

Question 12

Q: Which drug class is known to deplete CoQ10?

Answer 12

A: Statins.

Question 13

Q: What should be monitored when a patient is taking Warfarin?

Answer 13

A: Vitamin K intake and INR levels to manage clotting risk.

Question 14

Q: What is serotonin syndrome, and when can it occur?

Answer 14

A: A potentially fatal condition caused by excessive serotonin due to drug interactions, often with SSRIs and St. John’s wort.

Question 15

Q: Which herbs may interact with blood-thinning medications?

Answer 15

A: Ginkgo and garlic.

Question 16

Q: What is pharmacodynamics?

Answer 16

A: The study of how drugs interact with the body to exert their effects, including their mode of action and the factors affecting their action.

Question 17

Q: What are the four key processes of pharmacokinetics?

Answer 17

A: Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion (ADME).

Question 18

Q: How do drugs exert their effects?

Answer 18

A: By interacting with specific receptors in the body, leading to various physiological responses.

Question 19

Q: What can influence a drug’s metabolism?

Answer 19

A: Genetic factors, age, medical conditions (e.g., liver disease), and interactions with other drugs or foods.

Question 20

Q: Name common long-term side effects of drug therapy.

Answer 20

A: Nutrient deficiencies, metabolic effects, dependence, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease.

Question 21

Q: What is the role of the cytochrome P450 enzyme system?

Answer 21

A: It plays a critical role in the metabolism of many drugs, influencing their effectiveness and the risk of side effects.

Question 22

Q: Which drug can cause gastrointestinal issues due to decreased gastric acid?

Answer 22

A: Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs).

Question 23

Q: What are the common categories of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs?

Answer 23

A: Analgesics, laxatives, antacids, antihistamines, decongestants.

Question 24

Q: How can dietary changes affect medication?

Answer 24

A: For example, a high-protein diet may reduce the effectiveness of theophylline, and high-fiber diets can reduce the absorption of certain antidepressants.

Question 25

Q: What is the consequence of abrupt withdrawal from corticosteroids?

Answer 25

A: It can lead to acute adrenal insufficiency, hypotension, or even death.

Question 26

Q: What nutrients are often depleted by long-term use of corticosteroids?

Answer 26

A: Calcium, Vitamin D, and magnesium.

Question 27

Q: Which types of patients are at increased risk of drug interactions?

Answer 27

A: Elderly patients, those with multiple prescriptions (polypharmacy), and patients with renal or liver dysfunction.

Question 28

Q: What is meant by “narrow therapeutic index” (NTI) drugs?

Answer 28

A: Drugs that require careful monitoring as small changes in dosage can lead to toxicity or therapeutic failure (e.g., warfarin, digoxin).

Question 29

Q: How can alcohol interact with medications?

Answer 29

A: It can inhibit drug metabolism, leading to increased effects or toxicity, and can magnify the effects of sedative drugs.

Question 30

Q: What are some examples of drugs that can induce nutrient depletions?

Answer 30

A: Statins (CoQ10), diuretics (potassium, magnesium), antibiotics (B vitamins), and antacids (calcium, iron).

Question 31

Q: What type of medications require monitoring of potassium levels?

Answer 31

A: Diuretics and digoxin, especially in cases of hypokalemia.

Question 32

Q: What is the primary effect of NSAIDs on the gastrointestinal system?

Answer 32

A: They can inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, leading to increased risk of gastric bleeding and ulceration.

Question 33

Q: Which nutrient does Omeprazole, a common PPI, deplete?

Answer 33

A: Magnesium, leading to potential hypomagnesemia.

Question 34

Q: Why is it important for nutritional therapists to understand drug interactions?

Answer 34

A: To prevent adverse effects and ensure safe and effective nutritional support for clients on medications.

Question 35

Q: What should be monitored in a patient taking warfarin?

Answer 35

A: INR (International Normalized Ratio) and dietary vitamin K intake.

Question 36

Q: How can a nutritional therapist assist a client on multiple medications?

Answer 36

A: By reviewing their medication regimen, identifying potential interactions, and recommending dietary modifications to support health.