NAPLEX Sample Questions Answers

It is reasonable to add triglyceride-lowering medications such as fibrates or niacin to prevent pancreatitis in those with triglyceride levels >500 mg/dL, which applies to this patient as his TG level is 640 mg/dL . C. is wrong because gemfibrozil should not be initiated in patients on statin therapy because of an increased risk for muscle symptoms and rhabdomyolysis. Fenofibrate may be considered concomitantly with a low- or moderate- intensity statin when triglycerides are above 500 mg/dL,2, however he is on a high intensity statin therapy. For niacin, the IR dose should start at 100 mg TID2 and niacin does not lower triglyceride levels as much as fibrate do.4 Fenofibrates are dose adjusted for renal function lower than 60 mL/min to 54 mg/mL, so this dose is appropriate for this patient because of his renal function being above 60 mL/min. The best option is fenofibrate 162 mg daily, but this needs to be monitored for any symptoms of muscle pain exhibited by the patient, especially as the patient is at a higher risk due to being a diabetic. Fish oil is not a first line agent to treat hypertriglyceridemia.

(A) Sulfonylureas, (C) DPP4 Inhibitors, (D) Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists Sulfonylureas work in beta cells in the pancreas that are still functioning to enhance insulin secretion. Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors stop α-glucosidase enzymes in the small intestine and delay digestion and absorption of starch and disaccharides which lowers the levels of glucose after meals. DPP4 blocks the degradation ofGLP-1, GIP, and a variety of other peptides, including brain natriuretic peptide. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists work in various organs of the body. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists enhance glucose homeostasis through: (i) stimulation of insulin secretion; (ii) inhibition of glucagon secretion; (iii) direct and indirect suppression of endogenous glucose production; (iv) suppression of appetite; (v) enhanced insulin sensitivity secondary to weight loss; (vi) delayed gastric emptying, resulting in decreased postprandial hyperglycaemia.Thiazolidinediones are the only true insulin-sensitising agents, exerting their effects in

skeletaland cardiac muscle, liver,and adipose tissue. It ameliorates insulin resistance, decreases visceral fat.Biguanides work in liver, muscle, adipose tissue via activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) reduce hepatic glucose production. SGLT2 inhibitors work in the kidneys to inhibit sodium-glucose transport proteins to reabsorb glucose into the blood from muscle cells; overall this helps to improve insulin release from the beta cells of the pancreas.

Cefazolin or an antistaphylococcal penicillin (oxacillin or nafcillin) is recommended for this patient because the C&S results indicate MSSA. Since the patient develops a rash to penicillins, it would be acceptable to use cefazolin in this case.

The following NSAIDs belong to the propionic acid derivatives group - Ibuprofen - Ketoprofen - Naproxen - Fenoprofen - Flurbiprofen - Oxaprozin whereas piroxicam belongs to the class of Enolic acid derivative which also includes other agents like meloxicam and Nabumetone. They are non-selective COX inhibitors and act by preventing the production of certain prostaglandins.

Dexamethasone is used to promote fetal lung maturation. This may be necessary in cases of women who need to deliver prematurely. A tocolytic drug, such as nifedipine, may be used to suppress labor whilst dexamethasone works to accelerate fetal lung development.

A, B – false – dapsone inhibits bacterial synthesis of dihydrofolic acid, via competition with para- aminobenzoate for the active site of dihydropteroate synthetase. Dapsone is both bacteriostatic and weakly bactericidal against M. leprae. Neither of the listed mechanisms are the cause of these effects. C – False – A substance with both anti-leprosy and anti-inflammatory activity, clofazimine is weakly bactericidal against M. leprae by binding to the guanine bases of bacterial DNA, not DNA polymerase directly. D – False – See below. E – True – Rifampin is bactericidal by inhibiting RNA synthesis by blocking DNA-dependent RNA polymerase.

Dexamethasone can increase LN’s blood glucose. All glucocorticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose. Blood glucose would need to be monitored while LN is being treated with dexamethasone.

Thiazolidinediones Sulfonylureas work in beta cells in the pancreas that are still functioning to enhance insulin secretion. Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors stop α-glucosidase enzymes in the small intestine and delay digestion and absorption of starch and disaccharides which lowers the levels of glucose after meals. DPP4 blocks the degradation ofGLP-1, GIP, and a variety of other peptides, including brain natriuretic peptide. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists work in various organs of the body. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists enhance glucose homeostasis through: (i) stimulation of insulin secretion; (ii) inhibition of glucagon secretion;

(iii) direct and indirect suppression of endogenous glucose production; (iv) suppression of appetite; (v) enhanced insulin sensitivity secondary to weight loss; (vi) delayed gastric emptying, resulting in decreased postprandial hyperglycaemia. Thiazolidinediones are the only true insulin-sensitising agents, exerting their effects in skeletal and cardiac muscle, liver, and adipose tissue. It ameliorates insulin resistance, decreases visceral fat. Biguanides work in liver, muscle, adipose tissue via activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) reduce hepatic glucose production. SGLT2 inhibitors work in the kidneys to inhibit sodium-glucose transport proteins to reabsorb glucose into the blood from muscle cells; overall this helps to improve insulin release from the beta cells of the pancreas.

0.2 mg/hour basal rate = 0.2mg/hour (24 hours) = 4.8 mg Demand dose of 0.1 mg × 5 = 0.5 mg 4.8 mg + 0.5 mg = 5.3 mg

The delayed-release action of divalproex allows for less frequent dosing than valproic acid in some patients. Divalproex sodium contains sodium valproate and valproic acid in a 1:1 molar stable co-ordination compound. Valproic acid, sodium valproate, and divalproex share the same pharmacology; however, there are pharmacokinetic differences among products.

Metformin should be stopped when eGFR falls below 30. This is the only cutoff that is recommended for absolute discontinuing. If the eGFR falls between 30-44 while ontherapy, benefits and risks of discontinuing should be evaluated. New initiation is only recommended when eGFR >45.

Omeprazole is CYP2C19 inhibitor which can prolong the elimination of warfarin, particularly R-warfarin. R- warfarin is partially metabolized by CYP2C19. The combined use of omeprazole and warfarin has been associated with reports of increased INR and prothrombin time (PT).

Empagliflozin is a SGLT2 inhibitor to decrease glucose reabsorption in the kidney. Linagliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor that works on incretins/increase insulin secretion/decrease glucagon secretion. Pioglitazone is a TZD that increases insulin sensitivity. Exenatide is a GLP-1 agonist which increase insulin secretion/decrease glucagon secretion/increase satiety.

Odds ratio of 0.44 (44%) means that this group was associated with an event happening 44% of the time, compared to 1 (an event happening 100% of the time if unexposed), therefore 100 - 44 = 56%, which is the reduction caused by the exposure. Exposure is the use of ascorbic acid.

Sulfonylureas work in beta cells in the pancreas that are still functioning to enhance insulin secretion. Alpha-

Glucosidase Inhibitors stop α-glucosidase enzymes in the small intestine and delay digestion and absorption of starch and disaccharides which lowers the levels of glucose after meals. DPP4 blocks the degradation ofGLP-1, GIP, and a variety of other peptides, including brain natriuretic peptide. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists work in various organs of the body. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists enhance glucose homeostasis through: (i) stimulation of insulin secretion; (ii) inhibition of glucagon secretion; (iii) direct and indirect suppression of endogenous glucose production; (iv) suppression of appetite; (v) enhanced insulin sensitivity secondary to weight loss; (vi) delayed gastric emptying, resulting in decreased postprandial hyperglycaemia. Thiazolidinediones are the only true insulin-sensitising agents, exerting their effects in skeletal and cardiac muscle, liver, and adipose tissue. It ameliorates insulin resistance, decreases visceral fat.

Biguanides work in liver, muscle, adipose tissue via activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) reduce hepatic glucose production. SGLT2 inhibitors work in the kidneys to inhibit sodium-glucose transport proteins to reabsorb glucose into the blood from muscle cells; overall this helps to improve insulin release from the beta cells of the pancreas.

Tachyphylaxis is the phenomenon where a patient experiences a rapid form of drug tolerance. Nitrates exhibit this property. It means that the patient becomes tolerance very quickly and so repeat doses become more and more ineffective. To overcome the problem of tachyphyaxis, then, sufficient time must elapse between doses.

Signs of opioid overdose include pinpoint pupils, delirious state, nausea / vomiting, respiratory depression and sleepiness or loss of consciousness. Naloxone may be used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose.

1mEq NaCl= 58.5; Valence = 1. mg = mEq × molecular weight / valence. mg = 51.3mEq × 58.5mg / 1 = 3001.05mg = 3g. 23.4 g/100ml = 3g/Xml X = 12.825mL

Cisplatin. All chemotherapeutics have similar generalized side effects related to their effects on rapidly growing cells. These include hair loss, nausea, and fatigue. However, many chemotherapeutics have unique toxicities as well which are often tested. Cisplatin (C) is notable for its nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Cyclophosphamide

(A) is known to cause hemorrhagic cystitis. This is a distinct process from nephrotoxicity. The most noteworthy side effect of bleomycin (B) is pulmonary toxicity that can lead to pulmonary fibrosis. Vinblastine (D) is known for bone marrow suppression. Vincristine (E) causes neuropathy.

Primary treatment for stenotrophomonas maltophilia is SMX-TMP. Meropenem, ciprofloxacin, Ampicillin and vancomycin have no coverage.

Add salmeterol to the current regimen. This patient had mild persistent asthma but was using his albuterol daily, which indicates that a step up in therapy is warranted. The preferred first line treatment regimen for moderate persistent asthma are low to medium dose inhaled corticosteroids plus a long acting beta2 agonist, as well as a short acting beta2 agonist as needed. A is incorrect. Ciclesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid. The patient in the case is already using fluticasone, so adding ciclesonide would be therapeutic duplication. C is incorrect. Long-acting beta2 agonists should only be used as adjunctive therapy in patients who are currently receiving but not adequately controlled on an inhaled corticosteroid. These medications should not be used as monotherapy, due to an increased risk of asthma related deaths. D is incorrect. Cromolyn prevents the release of vasoactive mediators from mast cell and is primarily used for exercise-induced asthma, it is not indicated as an alternative agent in patients with moderate persistent asthma. E is incorrect. Ipratropium is a short-acting anticholinergic, which is often used in COPD or in asthma exacerbations. It is not indicated for maintenance treatment of moderate persistent asthma.

Metformin is associated with vitamin B12 deficiency because it affects the calcium dependent membrane uptake of it. All other drug classes are not associated with this.

The concentration is the first thing to calculate, using 1 mL of octreotide solution containing a concentration of 0.5mg/mL is really using 0.5mg of octreotide. If this is placed in 50 mL NS then it is 0.5mg/50mL which is 0.01mg/mL or 10 mcg/mL. If the patient needs 50 mcg of octreotide per hour then the patient will need 5, 10 mcg/mL doses or 5 mLs. So the rate for this patient would be 5 mL/hr.

N-acetylcysteine can be used to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy. Whilst evidence is not overwhelming for use in favor, it does appear to have a clinical impact. N-acetylcysteine is typically given the day before treatment and the day when treatment commences. Other means to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy include adequate hydration, while some studied recommend ascorbic acid.

As the patient is over the age of 60 and he does not have CKD or diabetes, his goal BP should be SBP < 150 mmHg or DBP < 90 mmHg, and he is not currently at this goal with his medication regimen. Options are to maximize the current medication dosage (option A), or to add a second agent. Since calcium channel blockers like Norvasc are recommended as initial treatment options in African Americans, choosing Norvasc over lisinopril would probably be the more effective option.

Incidence rate = New reported cases / summed person-years of observation (avg population during time interval) Prevalence = Cases in a population in a given time period / total population at that time.

LN should be on docusate sodium/Senna for constipation and ondansetron for N/V. Dexamethasone has an off label use for N/V that is chemotherapy-associated. It is mostly used as an anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressant agent. Hydromorphone does not cause hyperglycemia. The most common side effects of opioids are nausea, vomiting and constipation.

The diagnosis of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is suggested when plasma gastrin is > 1000 pg/ml and the basal acid output is > 15 mEq/h or when associated with a pH < 2. The treatment is focused on controlling gastric acid hypersecretion and localisation of the tumour and its metastases. Proton pump inhibitors are the most effective antisecretory drugs and can be administered at high dosages

Common GI side effects of Valproic Acid and Divalproex Sodium are Weight gain, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia. Divalproex sodium or valproic acid affects reproductive endocrine function in women. Menstrual irregularities defined as amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, and prolonged cycles were common. Gynecomastia is not a side effect of Divalproex Sodium. For list of drugs that causes gynecomastia refer the reference. Gingival hyperplasia is a well-known side effect of phenytoin.

Pregabalin works as a ligand of the auxiliary α2δ subunit site of certain voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs), and thereby acts as an inhibitor of α2δ subunit-containing VDCCs.

Sucralfate is a drug used to treat active duodenal ulcers and may also be used to treat GERD or stress ulcers.

LDL can be elevated by diuretics, cyclosporine, glucocorticoids, and amiodarone.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an example of postrenal acute kidney injury (AKI). Postrenal AKI, as the name suggests, involves an effect ‘post’ or ‘beyond’ the kidney, to problems that emerge downstream from the kidney. BPH is one such example of that. Other examples include kidney stones, bladder stones and bladder cancer.

Dichotomous data is considered categorical data that only has two categories, or two answer choices. All 3 answer choices have only 2 categories: sex has male or female, pain is yes or no, and alive or dead is only two options also.

Categorical data includes ordinal (ordered categories) and nominal (unordered categories). NYHA I-IV and grade of breast cancer are considered ordinal data because the categories for the answer choice are in order, you can have NYHA class I, II, III, or IV. Grade of breast cancers are also in order, grade 1, 2, or 3. Sex, Improvemnet Yes/No, Alive or Dead is considered nominal, unordered data because the answer choices are female or male, and do not have a set order.

Primidone is an anticonvulsant drug that is structurally related to phenobarbital. Primidone is metabolized to

phenobarbital and therefore shares its anticonvulsant and sedative properties. Primidone may be more effective than therapy with phenobarbital alone because primidone and both of its metabolites, phenobarbital and phenylethylmalonamide (PEMA), possess anticonvulsant activity.

1st hour: 13mL/hr × 1 hr = 13mL 50U/mL = XU/13mL 650U Heparin given in hours since the half-life of protamine is 60 min 2nd hour 650/2 =325 units 650 units + 325 units = 975 units needs to be reversed.

**1mg of protamine reverses 100U of Heparin (1mg protamine/100U Heparin) = (x mg protamine/975U Heparin given) = x = 9.7mg protamine

The only bile acid sequestrant, colesevelam (Welchol), has been shown to increase triglycerides through mechanism of: activation of phosphatidic acid phosphatase with promotes triglyceride synthesis. GLP-1 agonists work on GLP 1 receptors to increase insulin secretion, decrease glucagon secretion, and increase satiety. Thiazolidinediones activate nuclear transcription factor PPAR gamma to increase insulin sensitivity. SGLT2 inhibitors inhibit glucose reabsorption in the kidney. Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors slow down digestion and absorptions of carbs in the gut.

Famotidine and Metoclopramide would need to be adjusted for poor renal function. Since his CrCl is less than 50, famotidine would need to be adjusted by decreasing the dose by 50% or increasing the interval to every 36 to 48 hours. Metoclopramide would also need to be adjusted by 50% of the normal dose since his CrCl is less than 40. ACEInhibitors and ARBs should be held if serum K is greater than 5.6 or there is a rise in serum creatinine greater than 30% after initiation.

This patient belongs in one of the four statin benefit groups because his estimated 10-year ASCVD risk is over 7.5%. Adults 40 to 75 years of age with LDL–C 70 to 189 mg/dL, with an estimated 10-year ASCVD risk ≥7.5% and without clinical ASCVD or diabetes should receive either a moderate-intensity or high-intensity statin. Since the extent of reducing the risk of ASCVD is proportionally related to the degree of LDL-C reduction, risk could be reduced more so with a high intensity statin. Considering the given options, Atorvastatin 80 mg PO QHS is the best choice.

A CD4 count of 180 cells per cubic meter is considered very low – typically an indicator that the patient has an immunocompromised state, such as AIDS. CD4 counts are a measure of healthy T-cell levels. The lower the count, the more susceptible the patient is to opportunistic infections. A normal range is between 500 and 1,500 cells.

Statin therapy should be used as treatment in adults with primary LDL–C ≥190 mg/dL and age over 21 years. Unless contraindicated, high-intensity statin therapy should be used.

A type III hypersensitivity reaction is mediated by immune complex deposition. In lupus, auto-antibodies are formed and these complexes are deposited in other tissues, especially in the kidneys, skin, and joints. Graves disease and myasthenia gravis are examples of type II but in some classification systems they are called type V reactions. The auto-antibodies created in Graves attack TSH receptors in the thyroid, whereas in

Myasthenia the target is the acetylcholine receptor. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is usually considered an example of a combination of type II and IV reactions, as T cells are directed at thyroid antigens and antibodies are also produced. Allergic rhinitis is a classic example of a type I, IgE mediated reaction.