Pharmacology (things I forget)

Question 1

What is a common endocrine side effect of lithium?

Answer 1

Chronic lithium toxicity –> hypothyroidism

Question 2

What electrolyte imbalance is associated with SSRIs?

Answer 2

Hyponatraemia

Question 3

What are symptoms of SSRI discontinuation syndrome?

Answer 3

• Dizziness
• GI symptoms (diarrhoea)
• Electric shock sensations
• Anxiety

Question 4

What increased risk is associated with atypical antipsychotics?

Answer 4

Stroke/VTE in elderly

Question 5

Which SSRI is most likely to cause cardiac anomalies?

Answer 5

Citalopram - QT prolongation and Torsades de Pointes

Question 6

What medications are prescribed to patients with HTN?

Answer 6

T2DM = ACEi/ARB e.g. ramipril/losartan

<55 = ACEi/ARB

> 55 = CCB e.g. amlodipine

Black African/African–Caribbean origin = CCB

CCB not tolerated = thiazide-like diuretic e.g. indapamide

Still not effective (resistant HTN) = check compliance/more readings/spironolactone (if low potassium - U&Es before and 2 weeks after/within 1 month)/beta blocker

Question 7

What is the guidance for anticoagulants in pregnancy?

Answer 7

Switch DOACs e.g. apixaban, edoxaban to LMWH e.g. enoxaparin, dalteparin

Question 8

What is a common drug used for pain in palliative care?

Answer 8

Diamorphine

Question 9

What is a common drug used for distress/agitation in palliative care?

Answer 9

Midazolam

Question 10

What is a common drug used for breathlessness in palliative care?

Answer 10

Midazolam

Question 11

What is a common drug used for respiratory tract secretions/bowel spasms in palliative care?

Answer 11

Buscopan (hyoscine butylbromide)

Question 12

What is a common drug used for nausea and vomiting in palliative care?

Answer 12

Haloperidol