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See Explanation
C is incorrect. A drug that causes the release of nitric oxide would cause vasodilatation, and improve perfusion of the heart. That
clearly would not cause ischemia
D is incorrect. Calcium channel blockers are also used in the treatment of migraine headache and heart disease. They also lead to
vasodilatation, enhancing perfusion of the heart, and therefore would not cause chest pain due to ischemia
E is incorrect. Cocaine is another classic drug that may cause coronary vasospasm. It stimulates presynaptic release of catecholamines
(norepinephrine and dopamine) and inhibits catecholamine reuptake, causing increased levels at the synapse.
A 58 year old man with a past medical history of hypertension presents with a cough. The medical team suspects that the cough is due
to one of his antihypertensive medications. Which of the following is a characteristic of the best alternative drug for this patient?
See Explanation
C is incorrect because angiotensin II levels are unaffected. In fact, the amount of free angiotensin II may actually increase from lack of
access to its binding sites, which are occupied by the drug.
D is incorrect because ACE is produced in the lungs. Its production is reduced by ACE inhibitors, which are the cause of this patient’s
presentation.
All the following medications have been found to induce high levels of glucose, except:
A. Prednisone
B. Pentamidine
C. Thiazides
D. ACE inhibitors
E. alpha-interferon
See Explanation
A 46 year old man is about to undergo surgery to remove a pheochromocytoma. Which of the following drugs (with its correct
mechanism of action) is most likely to have been administered prior to surgical treatment?
See Explanation
A 25-year-old male patient complains of increased thirst and increased frequency of urination. He denies any trauma or recent surgery.
At baseline his urine specific gravity is 1.001 and his serum osmolality is 350.
He is admitted to the hospital for observation and water restriction. After 6 hours, his urine specific gravity is 1.003 and his serum
osmolality is 365.
He is given intranasal desmopressin (DDAVP) and water is restricted for 6 hours. Afterward his urine specific gravity is 1.004 and his
serum osmolality is 400.
A. Aspririn
B. Furosemide
C. Gentamicin
D. Lithium
E. Penicillin
See Explanation
This patient is suffering from nephrogenic diabetes insipidus which is a side effect of lithium (option D). Diabetes insipidus is
characterized by increased thirst (polydipsia) and increased urination (polyuria) with the inability to to concentrate urine due to a lack
of ADH. Therefore, urine specific gravity will be low (<1.006) and serum osmolality will be >250. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
(lack of response to ADH) can be distinguished from central (loss of ADH production) because nephrogenic DI will not respond to
DDAVP which is a ADH analog.
Furosemide (option B) is a loop diuretic which would cause decreased urine specific gravity but the serum osmolality would not
increase as much.
Aspirin (option A), Gentamicin (option C) and Penicillin (option E) can cause acute tubular necrosis (ATN) and acute interstitial
nephritis which would cause an increase in serum creatinine but would not cause an low urine specific gravity or a high serum
osmolality.
A 35-year-old female complains of a white colored discharge from her nipples. Upon further questioning, she admits that she has not
had her period for the past six months and she has found herself tripping more often in her apartment. On physical examination, it is
noted that her peripheral vision is impaired. What medical therapy would most likely help with her symptoms?
A. Bromocriptine
B. Leuprolide
C. Levothyroxine
D. Prednisone
E. Propylthiouracil (PTU)
See Explanation
This patient is suffering from a prolactinoma. Hyper secretion of prolactin can stimulate galactorrhea which causes the milky
discharge from nipples, suppression of ovulation, and infertility (not mentioned in this question but a common sign). In addition, since
this tumor is located in the pituitary, if the tumor is large enough, it can press on the the optic chiasm and causes bitemporal
hemianopsia causing loss of peripheral vision. Prolactin secretion is suppressed by dopamine and bromocriptine (option A) is a
dopamine analog.
Leuprolide (option B) is a GnRH analog that can be used to suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary axis in conditions such as prostate
cancer (medical castration)
Levothyroxine (option C) is a synthetic analog of T4 (thyroid hormone) which is used hypothyroidism. Although galactorrhea and
anovulation can be seen in severe hypothyroidism (since TRH can also stimulate prolactin), hypothyroidism would not cause loss of
peripheral vision.
Prednisone (option D) is a glucorticoid and used for many purposes but not useful in the case of a prolactinoma
PTU (option E) is used in hyperthyroidism to suppress thyroid function.
A 43-year-old woman presents with bone pain, joint pain, and fatigue. Further history reveals blood in her urine and difficulty moving
her bowels. She denies recent weight loss, poor appetite, and night sweats. She has no chronic medical conditions and does not take
any medications or use drugs. Her family history is negative for malignancy. Physical examination is negative for lymphadenopathy or
hepatosplenomegaly. Laboratory values include serum calcium 11.2 mg/dL, serum phosphorous 2.0 mg/dL, urine calcium 410 mg,
and increased levels serum 1,25-hydroxy Vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone. Which of the following medications would most likely
help in treating this patient?
A. 1,25-hydroxy Vitamin D
B. Calcium gluconate
C. Furosemide
D. Hydrochlorothiazide
E. Magnesium sulfate
See Explanation
Fureosmide (Choice C) is a loop diuretic that inhibits the cotransport of Na+/K+/2Cl- in the ascending limb of the loop of Henle, thus
decreasing reabsorption and increasing excretion of these ions and Ca2+
1,25(OH)2 Vitamin D (Choice A), or Vitamin D, is used in the treatment of hypocalcemia. It increases intestinal calcium and
phosphate absorption while decreasing renal excretion, thus increasing the blood levels of both ions.
Calcium gluconate (Choice B) is used in the treatment of hypocalcemia. It would be contraindicated in this case as the patient’s serum
calcium is already high.
Hydrochlorothiazide (Choice D) is a thiazide diuretic that can be used in the treatment of hypocalcemia. In contrast to furosemide, it
promotes the reabsorption of calcium to decrease the calcium content of urine.
Magnesium sulfate (Choice E) is used in the treatment of hypomagnesemia, which is often associated with hypocalcemia.
A 30-year-old woman known to have type 1 diabetes presents to the emergency room with a productive cough, fever, and polyuria for
4 days and progressive lethargy and confusion for the last day. She complains of abdominal pain and nausea with vomiting. Her breath
smells fruity, her serum glucose is 600 mg/dL, and her serum potassium is 5.5. Initial management of this patient will likely include
IV fluids, insulin, and which of the following?
A. Calcium
B. Cortisone
C. Glucagon
D. Kayexalate
E. Potassium
See Explanation
This woman is likely in diabetic ketoacidosis. She needs urgent IV fluids, insulin, and potassium. Despite a mildly elevated serum
potassium her total body potassium stores are low. Administration of insulin will drive potassium into cells and decrease her serum
potassium.
A 25-year-old woman presents with 6 months of lethargy, sensitivity to cold temperatures, and an elevated serum TSH. What is the
most appropriate management for this patient?
A. Fluoxetine
B. Hydrocortisone
C. Levothyroxine
D. Propylthiouracil
E. Radioactive iodine treatment
See Explanation
This woman complains of symptoms of hypothyroidism with an elevated TSH. Levothyroxine, a synthetic form of thyroid hormone, is
the most appropriate choice.
(A) Fluoxetine is an SSRI could be used for depression. Serum TSH would be normal in depression.
(B) Hydrocortisone is a steroid that could be used for Addison's Disease (chronic adrenal insufficiency). Serum TSH should be normal
in Addison's.
(D) Propylthiouracil and (E) radioactive iodine treatment are used in hyperthyroidism. Serum TSH would be low in hyperthyroidism.
Propylthiouracil inhibits the enzyme thyroperoxidase, thus resulting in decreased thyroxine production. It also inhibits the peripheral
deiodination of T4 to T3 (T3 is more active). In radioactive iodine treatment, there is thyroid uptake of the radioactive isotope iodine-
131, which results in cytotoxic radiation delivered to some thyroid cells.
A 35 year old man confides to you that he has been having sexual problems that have been troubling him lately. On further
questioning he reports that he noticed a reduction of his ejaculate compared to the past. Which of the following drugs would most
likely explain his presentation?
A. Ketoconazole
B. Albuterol
C. Cocaine
D. Lithium
E. Furosemide
See Explanation
A. Liver disease
B. Lung disease
C. Heart disease
D. Hypertension
E. Diabetes
See Explanation
A 16-year-old boy with a history of asthma presents to the emergency room with shortness of breath for one hour unrelieved by home
nebulizer treatments. He is able to respond to questions in one-word answers due to his difficulty breathing. On physical exam, his
respiratory rate is 25 breaths per minute and he has bilateral wheezes. He is given supplemental oxygen, albuterol and ipratropium
nebulizer treatments, methylprednisolone, and magnesium. After his third nebulizer treatment, his breathing becomes easier. His
respiratory rate decreases to 16 breaths per minute, but his heart rate is now 116 beats per minute. Which of the following is most
likely responsible for the increase in heart rate?
A. Albuterol
B. Ipratropium
C. Magnesium
D. Methylprednisolone
E. Oxygen
See Explanation
A is the correct answer
Albuterol is a beta-agonist that is the mainstay of treatment for acute asthma attacks. Although it acts mainly on beta-2-receptors to
relax bronchial smooth muscle, it does have cross-reactivity and can cause tachycardia.
Ipratropium (Choice B) is often used in conjunction with a short-acting beta-agonist such as albuterol. It acts by blocking the action of
acetylcholine at parasympathetic sites in bronchial smooth muscle, leading to bronchodilation. Tachycardia is not a commonly
associated adverse effect.
Magnesium (Choice C) can be used in conjunction with standard emergency room asthma treatments to improve spirometric indices.
Tachycardia is not a commonly associated adverse effect.
Methylprednisolone (Choice D) is a corticosteroid used as an anti-inflammatory agent in the treatment of asthma. Tachycardia is not a
commonly associated adverse effect.
Oxygen (Choice E) is used in asthma treatment to counteract hypoxia. Tachycardia is not a commonly associated adverse effect.
A 55 year-old male reports to his primary care physician complaining of a headache, fever and a dry cough for the past 3 days. The
patient admits to being a pack a day smoker for the past 35 years, and although he has tried to quit, he has never been successful.
A chest X-ray shows small unilateral infiltrate in the left lower lobe. And blood tests are sent:
WBC: 14,000
Hgb: 13g/dl
Platelets: 400,000
Na+: 128
K+: 4.1
Cl-:100
HCO3: 23
BUN:25
Cr:1.2
A. Amoxicillin
B. Azithromycin
C. Ceftriaxone
D. Cephalexin
E. Vancomycin
See Explanation
This patient is most likely suffering from Legionnaire's Disease which is an infection with the bacteria Legionella in the spectrum on
atypical pneumonias. Legionnaire's is more common in smokers or people who are immune suppressed. Often there is a history of a
person being near aerosolized water (air conditioning etc) but it is a bacteria that colonizes in common places, so this history is not
necessary. More common in Legionnaire's in comparison to other pneumonias is that the patient often has hyponatremia (as above).
Therefore the best treatment for an atypical pneumonia is a macrolide like azithromycin (option B). A fluoroquinolone is also
acceptable.
Amoxicillin (A), ceftriaxone (C) and cephalexin (D) are part of the beta-lactam group, but they do not have much activity against
atypical pneumonias.
Vancomycin (E) is useful against MRSA and other gram positive bacteria; however, there is no evidence that this patient is suffering
from MRSA and therefore, there is no need to use it.
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A 50 year-old female with osteoporosis presents to the ED with severe back pain. She says that the pain began several days ago and
was gradual in onset. She does not recall doing any heavy lifting or anything else out of the ordinary. A picture of her back is shown.
You decide to treat this patient with a drug that has which mechanism of action?
A. Inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding and inhibiting a penicillin-binding protein and thus causing bacteriolysis.
B. Decreasing ergosterol synthesis and thus inhibiting cell membrane formation
C. Binding to DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV thus inhibiting DNA synthesis
D. The drug is first converted by a virus thiamidine kinase then further phosphorylated into its active form within the cell, which is
then incorporated into DNA causing chain termination.
E. The drug is a pyrophosphate analog which binds DNA polymerase ausing chain termination, but it does not require phosphorylation
by a viral tyrosine kinase.
See Explanation
Choice C is incorrect; this answer choice describes the mechanism of action of the fluoroquinolone antibiotics
Choice E is incorrect; this answer choice describes the mechanism of foscarnet which is a drug used commonly for cytomegalovirus
retinitis as well as for acyclovir-resistant herpes viridae.
Ganciclovir is like acyclovir except that it can be activated by other viral kinase outside of HSV/VZV thymidine kinase but is more
toxic than acyclovir (well tolerated).
Both Ganciclovir and foscarnet are nephrotoxic. Ganciclovir is also a bone marrow suppresor (luekopenia, neutropenia,
thrombocytopenia)
A 65 year old man presents with auditory hallucinations saying he "hears the voice of god." He also seems to talk without much
expression or emotion. He claims that his neighbors are actually aliens who threaten to kidnap him. He has had these thoughts and
behavior for the last 2 years. In the ED, he is given an injection, but a few hours later his vitals are noted to be: BP 190/100; P 120;
Temp 103; RR 21. A CPK is ordered and is found to be very elevated. What medication should be administered immediately?
A. Dantrolene Sodium
B. Haloperidol
C. Clozapine
D. Benztropine
E. Amantadine
See Explanation
Benztropine (Choice D) is an anti-cholinergic drug used to reverse the dystonic states caused by anti-psychotic agents. It is also used
as a second-line treatment for Parkinson's disease.
A 72 year old man with erectile dysfunction is being treated with sildenafil. This drug acts by inhibiting which of the following?
A. 5-alpha reductase
B. cAMP phosphodiesterase
C. cGMP phosphodiesterase
D. testosterone receptors
E. estrogen receptors
See Explanation
Sildenafil blocks cGMP phosphodiesterase, which is normally responsible for the breakdown of cGMP. Sildenafil therefore leads to
increased levels of cGMP, which have vasodilatory effects to relax smooth muscle. During sexual arousal, increased blood is able to
flow through the penis and allow for erection.
A patient presents to your office complaining of a recent inability to have an orgasm when engaging in sexual activities with his wife.
He recently started taking fluoxetine to control longstanding depression. Which of the following medications might you consider
switching him to in order to best decrease his risk for sexual side effects?
A. mirtazapine
B. imipramine
C. bupropion
D. trazodone
E. citalopram
See Explanation
Bupropion is an antidepressant medication that is known to be least likely to cause sexual side effects. It works by blocking the
reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine. Interestingly, it is also used to aid in smoking cessation, as it acts as a nicotinic receptor
antagonist.
You begin to follow a child that was recently diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. You decide to prescribe an inhaled agent to help dissolve
the mucus plugging the airways. This agent is also used as an antidote to reverse the toxicity of which of the following drugs?
A. aspirin
B. acetaminophen
C. heparin
D. streptokinase
E. methamphetamine
See Explanation
N-acetylcysteine, or Mucomyst, is a mucolytic agent that works by breaking down disulfide bonds within mucus proteins. It is used in
the treatment of patients with conditions involving excessive mucus clogging the airways. For the CF patient above, inhaled
Mucomyst is indicated.
N-acetylcysteine is also used widely to reverse acetaminophen toxicity. For this purpose, it is typically given intravenously. It helps to
restore glutathione reserves to quench the toxic metabolites and therefore protect the liver cells.
A patient presents to your office complaining of thinning hair and a bald patch on the top of his head. Which of the following drugs
(with its accompanying correct mechanism of action) is most appropriate to consider as therapy?
See Explanation
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is essential for the development of male specific sex characteristics. It is formed from testosterone via the
enzyme 5-alpha reductase. DHT plays a role in promoting male pattern baldness, exemplified by the description in the case above.
Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor that blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT and can therefore help to promote hair
growth by decreasing levels of DHT
A patient is diagnosed with gout and the doctor starts him on probenecid. This drug acts by which of the following methods and to
treat which type of gout?
A. Inhibits xanthine oxidase to decrease conversion of xanthine to uric acid; used to treat acute gout
B. Inhibits xanthine oxidase to decrease conversion of xanthine to uric acid; used to treat chronic gout
C. Inhibits the reabsorption of uric acid in the proximal convoluted tubule; used to treat chronic gout
D. Inhibits the reabsorption of uric acid in the proximal convoluted tubule; used to treat acute gout
E. Inhibits COX-2 to block the deposition of urate crystals in joints
See Explanation
Answer choic e B describes allopurinol. Allopurinol also used to prevent tumor lysis urate nephropathy.
Acute gout is treated by NSAIDs and if allergic to that - colchine. Colchicine works by depolymerizing microtubles thus inhibition
leukocyte movement and degranulation - notable GI side effects so 2nd line drug after NSAID like indomethacin
A 42 year-old male is referred to your office because of asymptomatic hypertension. Currently, his blood pressure is 162/90 and
160/94 on two separate occasions. Two years ago he started on a regimen of hydrochlorothiazide, then metoprolol and amlodipine
were added, yet his hypertension remains refractory to treatment. An arteriogram is shown. Which of the following drugs is
contraindicated in this patient and for what reason? (The angiogram should show renal artery stenosis)
A. Simvastatin because it may transiently disrupt the integrity of the endothelial plaques
B. Hydralazine because it may result in rebound tachyardia
C. Sodium nitroprusside because inhibiting a phosphodiesterase may lead to pulmonary hypotension
D. Enalapril because it may immediately lower GFR and lead to acute renal failure
E. Darbopoetin because it may induce polycythemia vera
See Explanation
Choice E is incorrect; darbopoetin is an erythropoetin analog used in treatment of anemia due to chronic renal disease, due to
decreased erythropoetin production. It stimulates the bone marrow to increase red blood cell production.
What would be the most likely medication to cause vertical and horizontal nystagmus in a 27 year old patient treated for trigeminal
neuralgia?
A. Tacrine
B. Nedocromil
C. Phenytoin
D. Cisapride
E. Candesartan
See Explanation
A) Tacrine is an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor used in Alzheimer's disease. It classic side effects are hepatotoxicity and GI
Bleeding.
B) Necrodomil inhibits mast cell degranulation and is used in the treatment of asthma. It belongs to the same class of drugs as
cromolyn sodium. It hyperpolarizes the mast cell membrane via increased Cl channel efflux, Its classic side effect is severe pulmonary
eosinophilia.
D) Cisapride was used for gastroparesis,. It is no longer used because it can cause torsades de pointes. Its mechanism of action is as a
5-HT4 agonist.
E) Candesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that can cause fatal renal toxicity. Easy way to remember is to see the
ending letters - sartan (remember Losartan).
A 25-year-old male presents complaining of several weeks of itching lesions on his legs and arms. On exam, there are sharply
demarcated erythematous plaques with silvery scale on the lower legs and extensor surfaces of the arms bilaterally. Which of the
following drugs would be most likely to alleviate the patient's symptoms?
A. Amoxicillin, oral
B. Betamethasone, topical
C. Fluconazole, oral
D. Ketoconazole, topical
E. Mupirocin, topical
See Explanation
Other answer choices (listed below) would not be effective in treating an immune-mediated condition such as psoriasis.
Amoxicillin (A) is an beta-lactam aminopenicillin antibiotic that is most effective against Gram-positive bacteria that do not produce
beta-lactamase.
Fluconazole (C) is a triazole antifungal that inhibits cytochrome p450 and sterol C-14 alpha-demethylation. It is useful in treating a
number of fungal infections, including candidiasis, cryptococcal meningitis, and tinea infections.
Ketoconazole (D) is an antifungal that inhibits fungal cell membrane ergosterol synthesis.
Mupirocin (E) is a topical antibiotic that selectively binds to bacterial isoleucyl transfer-RNA synthetase, inhibiting protein synthesis.
It is used to treat bacterial skin infections.
A patient presents to the emergency room with a urinary tract infection. In reviewing your knowledge of antibiotics, you recall that
which of the following is bacteriostatic versus bactericidal?
A. Aminoglycosides
B. Cephalosporins
C. Fluoroquinolones
D. Macrolides
E. Penicillins
See Explanation
Cephalosporins (Choice B) are bactericidal agents that share a similar mechanism of action to penicillin. They act by inhibiting cross-
linkage of the bacterial cell wall, compromising their structural and osmotic integrity. Cephalosporins are divided into four different
classes based on their antimicrobial activity and beta-lactamase resistance.
Fluoroquinolones (Choice C) are bactericidal agents that inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase, thereby blocking replication of bacterial DNA.
They are used primarily against gram-negative organisms. Coverage against gram-positive organisms is variable, although certain
fluorquinolones are commonly used to treat community-acquired pneumonia.
Penicillins (Choice E) are bactericidal agents that inhibit cross-linkage of the bacterial cell wall, compromising their structural and
osmotic integrity. They are most effective against gram-positive organisms and are often used with aminoglycosides for a synergistic
effect.
A 3-year-old boy is prescribed a medication by his pediatrician. Five days after beginning this medication, the child develops the rash
shown above. The lesions are non-pruritic and non-blistering; at no point does the child develop respiratory distress. Of the following
medications, which is most likely responsible for the observed reaction?
A. Amoxicillin
B. Cefazolin
C. Gentamycin
D. Hydroxychloroquine
E. Vancomycin
See Explanation
This is the morbilliform (measles-like) “amoxicillin rash.” It typically begins on the trunk >72 hours after beginning the medication,
then spreads, and is non-pruritic. As it is not a true allergic reaction, the current regimen may be continued and there is no contra-
indication to future penicillin use.
Though first-generation cephalosporins like cefazolin (Choice B) may show cross-allergenicity with penicillins, rash is uncommon.
Anaphylaxis is a more likely reaction, with onset sooner than four days.
The aminoglycoside gentamycin (Choice C) is classically associated with nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Dermatologic adverse
events, though rare, are severe and include erythema multiforme, toxic epidermal necrolysis, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Common adverse effects of hydroxychloroquine (Choice D) include GI distress, pruritus, and dizziness. Severe reactions include
hemolysis and ocular dysfunction.
Vancomycin (Choice E) is associated with the rash of “red man syndrome,” however, this reaction is infusion-rate dependent. Other
adverse effects include chills, fever, ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity.
35-years-old female was placed on oral contraceptive,19-nortestosterone (progestational agent) for the past two years. She will most
likely develop?
A. Endometriosis
B. Pelvic inflammatory disease
C. Ovarian cancer
D. Hypertension
E. Endometrial cancer
See Explanation
Looking in his medicine cabinet, a 45-year-old man with fever, nasal congestion, fatigue, and arthralgias finds a drug that was
originally prescribed for his 15-year-old son's acne. He comes to see his doctor after noticing he has been urinating more frequently
than normal ever since taking this drug. Physical examination reveals dry mucous membranes. Blood tests reveal hypokalemia and a
pH of 7.2. Urinalysis reveals elevated levels of glucose, protein, calcium, and phosphate. If this condition goes untreated, which of the
following is the most likely long-term complication for this patient?
A. Diabetes insipidus
B. Diabetes mellitus
C. Osteomalacia
D. Osteopetrosis
E. Rickets
See Explanation
A five-year-old boy with a history of Tourette syndrome is brought to the pediatrician by his mother. She reports that, over the past six
months or so, her son has started having difficulty in school: he easily loses focus, procrastinates, and shows poor impulse control. At
the last parent-teacher conference, his teacher complained he is constantly "bouncing off the walls" and generally disrupting class. If
his pediatrician were to treat these new symptoms pharmacologically, which of the following drugs would be most appropriate?
A. Atomoxetine
B. Dextroamphetamine
C. Methylphenidate
D. Modafinil
E. Risperidone
See Explanation
Standard treatment of this condition involves using CNS stimulants, such as methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine, to bring about
increased dopaminergic signaling in the brain.
However, using dopaminergic drugs in this patient would exacerbate his Tourette syndrome, which involves overactive dopaminergic
signalling in the thalamus, basal ganglia, and frontal cortex. In this case, atomoxetine (a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) is best as it
will improve the patient's concentration without worsening his tics.
A 42-year-old woman, originally from Jamaica, with rheumatoid arthritis presents with a persistent cough. Her chest X-ray is above.
Which of the following drugs was she most likely taking for her rheumatoid arthritis?
A. Aspirin
B. Azathioprin
C. Etanercept
D. Indomethicin
E. Methylprednisolone
See Explanation
Etanercept is a TNF-alpha antagonist. The other drug in this class is infliximab. Reactivation of latent TB infection is possible with
this class of drugs because TNF-alpha inhibits macrophages, which are necessary for the control of latent mycobacterial infection.
The other drugs could also lead to immunosuppression and thus TB reactivation, but this adverse reaction is more commonly
associated with the TNF antagonists because of the specificity of the immune suppression.
After taking a new prescription medication for a urinary tract infection, a 17-year-old Greek male presents with an elevated bilirubin
and a hemoglobin of 10. He is diagnosed with an enzyme deficiency of the pentose phosphate pathway. The medication most likely to
have caused his symptoms has which of the following mechanisms of action?
See Explanation
The other drugs mentioned are not known to cause hemolytic anemia in G6PD defiency.
Aminoglycosides bind to the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit (Choice A) - not first line for treating UTI.
The cyclooxygenase inhibitor (choice C) aspirin is also not likely to be prescribed for a UTI.
Quinolones act as inhibitors of DNA gyrase (choice D) but are also not first line for UTIs.
An inhibitor of vitamin K epoxide reductase (Choice E) is coumadin, an inappropriate choice for treating a UTI.
A 17 year old male has had numerous episodes of alternating stiffening and relaxing movements involving the entire body. On
separate occasions, he was also noted to have episodes of staring blankly that last for about a minute. After prescribing the appropriate
pharmacologic treatment, which of the following is most important to monitor as follow-up in this patient?
See Explanation
This patient presented with tonic-clonic and absence seizures. Valproic acid is the only commonly used anti-epileptic drug that treats
both types of seizures. The major toxicity of valproic acid is hepatotoxicity, for which LFTs must be monitored regularly (choice C).
A 6-year-old child is brought to your office for evaluation of seizures. While examining the child, you hand her a pinwheel to blow on
rapidly. After she blows on the pinwheel to make it spin very quickly, she suddenly stops, appears to stare of into the distance, and
seems to "drop out". Within a minute, she is back to normal. EEG studies reveal generalized 2-3 Hz spike and wave discharges. Which
of the following drugs would you try as first line therapy for this child?
A. Carbamazepine
B. Ethosuximide
C. Phenytoin
D. Valproic acid
E. Verapamil
See Explanation
This child has generalized seizures of the absence type (formerly called "petit mal"). These occur most often in children and can be
induced by hyperventilation. (Asking the child to blow on the pinwheel rapidly simulates hyperventilation). The EEG findings
described are classic for absense seizures.
Absence seizures are best treated by drugs that specifically target T-type Ca+ currents, which are the believed to be involved in
providing the pacemaker current for thalamic neurons which then generate the generalized rhythmic discharge in the cortex during
absence attacks. The only two drugs listed that target the T-type Ca current are (B) ethosuximide and (D) Valproic Acid .
Ethosuximide has much better safety profile than valproic acid and thus is considered first line treatment for absence type seizure
disorder in children.
The other two anti-seizure drugs (A) carbamazepine and (C) phenytoin are contra-indicated in absence seizures. Both are classified as
"membrane stabilizer" drugs, and are most effective against partial seizures and generalized tonic clonic seizures (formerly called
"grande mal").
Choice (E), verapamil is a L-type Ca+ blocker, a Class IV cardiac antiarrhythmic drug. It does not treat seizures.
A 35-year-old woman is found unconscious in her apartment next to an empty bottle of pills. She is brought to the Emergency
Department and given flumazenil, and shortly thereafter regains consciousness. Which of the following drugs did she likely ingest?
A. Diazepam
B. Eszopiclone
C. Hydromorphone
D. Oxycodone
E. Zolpidem
See Explanation
Hydromorphone (choice C) and oxycodone (choice D) are opioids that bind to the mu receptor.
An 8-year-old boy has had a temperature of 38.8oC along with an upper respiratory tract infection over the past two days. His mother
gives him medication to bring down his fever. Two days later, the boy becomes increasingly confused and lethargic, and starts
vomiting heavily. Physical exam reveals a slightly enlarged and firm liver. His eyes are anicteric. Which of the following medications
is likely responsible for this boy’s condition?
A. Acetaminophen
B. Acetylsalicylic acid
C. Ibuprofen
D. Indomethacin
E. Naproxen
See Explanation
Acetylsalicylic acid (choice B) is a non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor, which has anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, anti-
platelet, and analgesic effects. One notable adverse effect is Reye’s syndrome, which is a potentially fatal condition seen in children
under 15 years who take acetylsalicylic acid after an upper respiratory infection. The condition manifests as rapidly progressive liver
failure and encephalopathy. Acetaminophen (choice A) also inhibits the COX enzyme, but has no anti-inflammatory or anti-platelet
effects. Ibuprofen (choice C), indomethacin (choice D), and naproxen (choice E) are other non-selective COX inhibitors.
A 67-year-old woman is started on warfarin to prevent embolic events from her atrial fibrillation. Four days after taking warfarin, she
starts developing well defined, erythematous, indurated, and purpuric lesions on her thighs. The inhibition of which component of the
coagulation cascade is likely responsible for these lesions?
A. Factor II
B. Factor VII
C. Factor IX
D. Protein C
E. Protein S
See Explanation
Protein C (choice D) is an anti-coagulation factor with a very short half-life (7.9hours), so its level can decrease first. This may lead to
the paradoxical pro-coagulant effect of warfarin seen here, called warfarin necrosis.
Protein S (choice E) is also an anti-coagulation factor, but it has a longer half-life than protein C.
Factors II, VII, and IX (choices A, B, C) are pro-coagulation factors that warfarin inhibits; thus, hemorrhage and easy bruising would
be resultant side effects. Factor VII has the shortest half life (3-6 hours).
One week after camping in the Adirondack Mountains, a 13-year-old boy presents to his doctor complaining of fever, nausea,
headache, and the rash shown.
Of the given options, what is the preferred pharmacologic treatment?
A. Azithromycin
B. Aztreonam
C. Ciprofloxacin
D. Penicillin
E. Tetracycline
See Explanation
It's also important to remember that rashes on the palms and soles are characteristic of only a few conditions: RMSF, secondary
syphilis, coxsackievirus (enterovirus), and adverse drug reactions.
Azithromycin (choice A) is a protein synthesis inhibitor, used for upper respiratory infections and sexually transmitted infections.
Aztreonam (choice B) is a powerful monobactam, used for Gram-negative rods like Klebsiella and Pseudomonas species.
Ciprofloxacin (choice C) is a fluoroquinolone used for Gram-negative rods infecting the urinary and GI tract.
Penicillin (choice D) is a beta-lactam, used for Gram-positive cocci & rods, as well as Gram-negative cocci and spirochetes.
A boy is born at 40 weeks gestation with APGAR scores of 9 and 9 at 1 and 5 minutes. It is noted in the well baby nursery that this
infant is breathing faster than the other newborns. On physical exam, his heart rate is 153 and he has a murmur that is heard
throughout both systole and diastole. Over the next couple of days, the newborn continues to breathe rapidly and the murmur does not
change. An echocardiogram shows no congenital heart anomaly. What medication is contraindicated for this newborn?
A. Acetaminophen
B. Ampicillin
C. Indomethacin
D. Prostaglandin E1
E. Vitamin K
See Explanation
Prostaglandin E2 (option D) will help keep the PDA open, which is undesirable in this case. Note that the question asks which drug is
contraindicated, so this is the correct answer.
Indomethacin (option C) is an NSAID and inhibits prostaglandin synthesis and therefore can be used to help close the PDA.
Ampicillin (option B) is an antibiotic that is often used to treat group B streptococcus infection in neonates. It does not affect the PDA
and is safe.
Vitamin K (option E) is routinely given to newborns to prevent against hemorrhage since the newborn is vitamin K deficient and
therefore can not produce adequate coagulation factors.
An elderly Latino man comes to your clinic for a follow-up visit. He reports increased urination since last month, when you prescribed
furosemide for his hypertension. He shows you his blood pressure diary, which shows a marked improvement in his blood pressure.
However, he mentions that his heart feels like it is beating irregularly at times. What side effect of furosemide is probably causing this
symptom?
A. Dehydration
B. Hyperkalemia
C. Hyponatremia
D. Hypokalemia
E. Hypomagnesemia
See Explanation
Furosemide is a loop diuretic that inhibits the Na-K-2Cl co-transporter in the thick ascending loop of Henle in the kidney. It can cause
dehydration and electrolyte depletion, particularly potassium. Signs of hypokalemia include cardiac arrhythmias, muscular weakness,
muscle cramps, and constipation. More severe hypokalemia can lead to flaccid paralysis, hyporeflexia, and tetany. The hypokalemic
effects of furosemide can be reversed with a potassium-sparing diuretic like spironolactone.
A 57-year-old man with systolic heart failure comes to the Emergency Department with shortness of breath and swelling of his ankles.
On physical exam, the patient is found to have 2+ pitting edema in both lower extremities. The patient is started on furosemide. In
patients with systolic heart failure, medical therapy with furosemide is started in order to achieve which of the following?
See Explanation
Furosemide therapy actually may increase the risk of arrhythmia from electrolye abnormalities, especially hypokalemia (A).
If therapy with loop diuretics is too aggressive, cardiac output may decrease secondary to increased diuresis and hypovolemia (E).
Physicians must maintain a delicate balance between symptom relief and adequate cardiac output.
A 31-year-old man presents to the clinic for his yearly check-up and is found to have a blood pressure of 158/94. At a re-check two
weeks later, his blood pressure is still elevated even though he has no risk factors for the development of hypertension. Further
evaluation reveals a potassium level of 3.3 meq/L. Proper medical therapy for this man's most likely condition would involve which of
the following mechanisms?
See Explanation
The correct answer is B, antagonism of the aldosterone receptor in the distal renal tubules. This man most likely has primary
hyperaldosteronism given the hypertension accompanied by hypokalemia. The goal of medical therapy is to normalize the serum
potassium level and the blood pressure, and reverse the effects of hyperaldosteronism on the heart since hyperaldosteronism is
associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and morbidity. Thus, therapy should be aimed at antagonism of
mineralocorticoid receptors.
The other choices include the mechanisms of action for other diuretics. These drugs are often used for hypertensive patients, but they
are not the best medications to use for patients with primary aldosteronism. Inhibition of sodium and chloride reabsorption in the loop
of Henle and distal renal tubule (Answer C) is achieved with loop diuretics including furosemide. Inhibition of sodium and chloride
reabsorption in the proximal tubule and loop of Henle is the mechanism of action of mannitol, an osmotic diuretic (Answer D).
Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase activity is how acetazolamide works (Answer E).
Agonism of the aldosterone receptor in the distal renal tubules is merely how aldosterone works and is a likely mechanism behind this
patient's hypertension, but it result in worsening of his hypertension and hypokalemia instead of improvement
A patient in the psychiatry wards has been abusing a particular drug with a very low safety margin. This drug causes respiratory
depression, slowness of movement and slurred speech. His withdrawal episodes have included rebound anxiety, seizures and wildly
fluctuating hypertension.
This drug most likely belongs to which of the following classes?
A. Amphetamines
B. Barbiturates
C. Benzodiazepines
D. Hallucinogens
E. Opioids
See Explanation
Amphetamines (A) produce the opposite effects described, including agitation, tachycardia, euphoria, and prolonged attentiveness.
Benzodiazepines (C) would produce similar effects as barbiturates, but are widely used because they have a much greater therapeutic
window.
(D) Hallucinogens and (E) Opioids possess a more complex abuse profile can themselves cause anxiety or seizures, respectively.
A 65-year-old woman presents with a one month history of fever, malaise, and weight loss. She also complains of pain and stiffness in
her shoulders and hips, and a unilateral headache with worsening vision. She has no history of trauma. What drug should she be
treated with first?
A. Acetaminophen
B. Allopurinol
C. Ibuprofen
D. Infliximab
E. Prednisone
See Explanation
This woman has clinical signs suggesting polymyalgia rheumatica and temporal arteritis. The two diseases often present together.
Although biopsy is needed to confirm temporal arteritis, prednisone (choice E) should be started because both diseases are steroid
responsive, and prompt treatment is needed to prevent blindness due to occlusion of the ophthalmic artery.
Acetaminophen (choice A) and ibuprofen (choice C) are both cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors, and will relieve some of the muscle pain,
but will not resolve the inflammation causing both of these conditions. Allopurinol (choice B) is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor used for
the chronic treatment of gout. Infliximab (choice D) is a TNF-alpha antibody used to treat Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and
ankylosing spondylitis
A 54-year-old man with newly diagnosed essential hypertension develops a painful right knee after taking his anti-hypertensive
medication. Joint aspiration reveals needle shaped crystals that are negatively birefringent. What was the likely agent that precipitated
his knee pain?
A. Clonidine
B. Enalapril
C. Hydrochlorothiazide
D. Metoprolol
E. Nifedipine
See Explanation
Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) (choice C) is a common initial therapy for uncomplicated hypertension. It is a diuretic that inhibits the
Na+/Cl- transporter in the early segment of the distal convoluted tubule. HCTZ is associated with hyperuricemia, along with
hypercalcemia, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia. Increased uric acid can precipitate an episode of gout, which this man
experienced.
Clonidine (choice A) is an agonist of presynaptic alpha2-adrenoceptors on sympathetic neurons. Enalapril (choice B) is an ACE
inhibitor. Metoprolol (choice D) is a beta1-adrenoceptor selective beta-blocker. Nifedipine (choice E) is a calcium channel blocker.
All these choices are used as antihypertensives, but only HCTZ is associated with hyperuricemia.
Which of the following is the most likely mechanism of the therapeutic effect of Bromocriptine in female patients with
hyperprolactinemia to help increase fertility?
See Explanation
Another way to remember the mechanism of action is to remember that dopamine is also known as Prolactin Inhibiting Factor. Thus, a
Dopamine Agonist would act like Prolactin Inhibiting Factor and stop Prolactin release from the pituitary gland.
A drug that acts as an antiestrogen to decrease feedback inhibition of estrogen on the pituitary gland and hypothalamus is clomiphene.
The result of this drug's mechanism is to increase the release of FSH and LH to enhance ovulation.
Human menopausal gonadotropins and human chorionic gonadotropins act like FSH and LH to induce ovulation without a functioning
pituitary.
GnRH preparations administered in a pulsatile manner induce FSH and LH release by acting on the pituitary gland and thus increasing
fertility.
A 25-year-old professional cyclist is diagnosed with testicular cancer and undergoes chemotherapy. One month after beginning
treatment, the patient complains of difficulty hearing. Which of the following chemotherapeutic agents is most likely responsible for
this side effect?
A. Bleomycin
B. Busulfan
C. Cisplatin
D. Cytarabine
E. Doxorubicin
See Explanation
This question is testing your knowledge of the major toxicities of chemotherapeutic agents.
Cisplatin (choice C), an alkylating-like agent, crosslinks DNA thereby interfering with mitosis. It is known to cause nephrotoxicity
and ototoxicity; both side effects seem to be related to the production of reactive oxygen species in specific tissues, leading to cell
death.
Bleomycin (choice A) induces the formation of free radicals, which causes breaks in DNA strands. It is known to cause pulmonary
fibrosis, skin changes and occasionally bone marrow suppression.
Busulfan (choice B) is a DNA alkylator and is known to cause pulmonary fibrosis and skin changes, including hyperpigmentation.
Cytarabine (choice D) inhibits DNA polymerase and causes megaloblastic anemia and pancytopenia.
Doxorubicin (choice E) generates free radicals and intercalates in DNA, creating breaks in the DNA. It causes cardiotoxicity, hair loss
and bone marrow suppression.
A 72-year-old male presents to the physician complaining of waking up multiple times during the night to urinate and having trouble
starting his stream. The patient reports that his health food store owner recommended that he try an herbal medication. Which of the
following herbal agents did the health food store owner likely recommend to help this patient's condition?
A. Echinacea
B. Feverfew
C. Kava
D. Saw palmetto
E. St. John's wort
See Explanation
USMLE Step 1 expects a familiarity with herbal agents and complementary and alternative medicine. In this question, the patient's
symptoms of urinary frequency and hesitancy are consistent with BPH, benign prostatic hyperplasia. Saw palmetto (choice D) has
been reported to help patients with BPH.
A 14 year old male patient presents with altered mental status, and RUQ pain. On physical exam, brown corneal deposits are noted on
slit-lamp exam. Hepatomegaly is noted with a span 12cm, and his asterixis is noted. Laboratory values are notable for elevated
transaminases.
What is most appropriate medical therapy?
A. D-penicillamine
B. Deferoxamine
C. Dimercaprol
D. N-acetylcysteine
E. Therapeutic phlebotomy
See Explanation
A 20-year-old college student returns from a weekend camping trip. One week later, the patient develops an expanding annular rash
with central clearing on his ankle and is being treated with doxycycline for 5 weeks. The drug acts by inhibiting which of the
following processes?
See Explanation
The Aminoglycosides acts by irreversible binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit to inhibit formation of an active initiation complex. As
a result, misreading of the mRNA template occurs.
Erythromycin is a macrolide that acts by reversible binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of gram-positive microorganisms to inhibit
translocation of the peptidyl molecule from A-site to P-site on mRNA.
Clindamycin and the Streptogranins are examples of drugs that bind to the 50S subunit to cause bacteriostatic inhibition of protein
synthesis.
Drugs that work by inhibiting the activity of the DNA gyrases are the Quinolones. The result is a bactericidal effect. This class of
drugs includes Ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin.