Drug Classifications Flashcards

Which drug class works by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II?

Answer: ACE inhibitors

ACE inhibitors block angiotensin-converting enzyme, preventing the formation of angiotensin II from angiotensin I.

A medication labeled as a 'first-generation antihistamine' would be expected to cause which side effect not seen with second-generation agents?

Answer: Sedation

First-generation antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine) cross the blood-brain barrier causing sedation, unlike second-generation agents like loratadine.

Which class of drugs is used as mood stabilizers and requires monitoring of serum drug levels due to a narrow therapeutic index?

Answer: Lithium salts

Lithium has a narrow therapeutic index (0.6–1.2 mEq/L) requiring regular serum level monitoring to avoid toxicity.

Fluoroquinolones exert their antibacterial effect by inhibiting which bacterial enzyme?

Answer: DNA gyrase/topoisomerase II

Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin) inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, preventing DNA replication.

Which drug class is used to prevent rejection after organ transplantation by suppressing T-cell activation?

Answer: Calcineurin inhibitors

Calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine, tacrolimus) block calcineurin, preventing IL-2 production and T-cell activation.

A patient taking a statin develops muscle pain and dark urine. This adverse effect is most consistent with which condition?

Answer: Rhabdomyolysis

Statins can cause rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown), releasing myoglobin that causes dark urine and can lead to acute kidney injury.

Which Schedule II controlled substance classification indicates the drug has which characteristic?

Answer: High abuse potential with accepted medical use

Schedule II drugs have high abuse potential and may lead to severe dependence but have accepted medical uses (e.g., oxycodone, amphetamines).