Practice Test Geeks(AAC) Alzheimer's Association Certification Practice Test
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Pharmacological Interventions Flashcards

7 cards from real AAC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. A nurse notices a patient with Alzheimer's is on both a cholinesterase inhibitor and a bladder antimuscarinics for overactive bladder. The primary concern with this combination is:

    Answer: Pharmacodynamic antagonism reducing efficacy of the cholinesterase inhibitor

    Bladder antimuscarinics (e.g., oxybutynin) block muscarinic receptors, directly antagonizing the cholinergic enhancement provided by cholinesterase inhibitors.

  2. Citalopram was studied for agitation in Alzheimer's (CitAD trial) but at higher doses is limited due to:

    Answer: Dose-dependent QT interval prolongation increasing arrhythmia risk

    The FDA warns that citalopram doses above 40 mg (20 mg in elderly) cause dose-dependent QT prolongation, limiting its use for agitation in Alzheimer's patients.

  3. In clinical trials for disease-modifying Alzheimer's therapies, the primary outcome measure CDR-SB stands for:

    Answer: Clinical Dementia Rating — Sum of Boxes

    CDR-SB (Clinical Dementia Rating — Sum of Boxes) is a widely used composite outcome measuring function and cognition across six domains in Alzheimer's clinical trials.

  4. A patient with moderate Alzheimer's is prescribed valproic acid for seizures. Caregivers should monitor closely for which adverse effect particularly relevant in this population?

    Answer: Sedation and worsening cognitive function

    Valproic acid causes sedation and can worsen cognitive function, which is especially problematic in patients who already have significant cognitive impairment.

  5. The amyloid PET scan or CSF amyloid biomarker confirmation required before prescribing lecanemab serves which purpose?

    Answer: Verifying amyloid pathology is present, confirming Alzheimer's etiology

    Amyloid confirmation ensures the patient truly has Alzheimer's pathology, not another dementia type that would not respond to anti-amyloid therapy.

  6. Mirtazapine is sometimes used off-label in Alzheimer's patients primarily for its beneficial side effects of:

    Answer: Appetite stimulation and sedation improving sleep and weight

    Mirtazapine's side effects of increased appetite and sedation make it useful for Alzheimer's patients with weight loss and insomnia, while avoiding anticholinergic burden.

  7. Which statement best reflects current evidence on the use of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) as a pharmacological intervention in Alzheimer's disease?

    Answer: Evidence is mixed; some guidelines support use in moderate disease but with caution regarding cardiovascular risk

    Evidence for vitamin E in Alzheimer's is mixed; some guidelines mention possible modest benefit in moderate disease, but high doses carry cardiovascular risks requiring careful consideration.