Pharmacology

Question 1

Describe the mechanism of action of atenolol

Answer 1

Competitive antagonist of beta-1 receptors. (atenolol = cardioselective)

Blocks noradrenaline from binding → reduced cAMP formation → reduced intracellular Ca2+ → reduced depolarisation → reduced HR & contractility

Question 2

Where do thiazide diuretics work?

Answer 2

Distal convoluted tubule

Question 3

Mechanism of thiazide diuretics

Answer 3

Inhibit Na+/Cl= symporter at the DCT

Inhibit Na&Cl reabsorption

Question 4

What drug class do cephalosporins come under?

Answer 4

Beta-lactam antibiotics

Question 5

Example of cephalosporin

Answer 5

Cefotaxime

Ceftriaxone

Question 6

Mechanism of ibruprofen

Answer 6

Inhibits COX-2 enzymes

• Inhibits conversion of arachidonic acid → prostaglandins and thromboxanes
• So reduce vasodilation, oedema and pain

Question 7

Drug class of erythromycin

Answer 7

Macrolide antibiotic

Question 8

Mechanism of macrolides

Answer 8

Reversibly bind to 50S subunit of bacterial ribosome

Inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis

Question 9

Target of loop diuretics

Answer 9

Na⁺ K⁺ 2Cl^- symporter in thick ascending limb on loop of Henle

Question 10

Drug class of loperamide

Answer 10

Antimotility drugs

Question 11

Action of metformin

Answer 11

Acts to increase sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin

Inhibtis gluconeogenesis in the liver

Question 12

What is oxybutynin used to treat?

Answer 12

Overactive bladder & urgency & frequency (by relaxing muscles in the bladder)

Question 13

Drug class of sildenafil & what is it used for

Answer 13

Phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor

Treats erectile dysfunction

Question 14

Drug class of finasteride

Answer 14

5-α reductase inhibitor