A 45-year-old male with hyperlipidemia is prescribed pravastatin. Pravastatin works by:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Inhibiting the action of HMG-CoA reductase in the liver. Pravastatin is a statin medication that works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a key role in the liver's production of cholesterol. By blocking this enzyme, pravastatin reduces the liver's ability to produce cholesterol, leading to lower levels of LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream. This mechanism helps to lower the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with hyperlipidemia. Choice A is incorrect because pravastatin does not inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines; it primarily acts in the liver. Choice C is incorrect because pravastatin primarily lowers LDL cholesterol levels rather than increasing HDL cholesterol levels. Choice D is incorrect because blocking bile acid reabsorption is not the primary mechanism of action of pravastatin in managing hyperlipidemia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Sumatriptan is the correct answer because it is a specific medication called a triptan that is commonly prescribed to treat acute migraine attacks by targeting serotonin receptors to reduce inflammation and constrict blood vessels in the brain. Ibuprofen and aspirin are general pain relievers that may help with mild migraines but are not as effective for acute attacks. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety and seizures, not for migraine treatment.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Inhibiting potassium channels in the heart. Amiodarone works by prolonging the action potential duration and refractory period by inhibiting potassium channels. This helps to stabilize the heart's rhythm in atrial fibrillation. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because amiodarone does not directly affect sodium channels, beta-adrenergic receptors, or calcium influx into the myocardium. Sodium channel blockers are class I antiarrhythmics, beta-blockers target beta-adrenergic receptors, and drugs that increase calcium influx are typically used for other indications like heart failure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Phenytoin. Phenytoin is an antiepileptic drug commonly used to manage seizures in patients with epilepsy. It works by stabilizing the neuronal membranes and inhibiting the spread of seizure activity. Aspirin (A) is a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug, not used for seizures. Metformin (C) is used for diabetes, not seizures. Furosemide (D) is a diuretic used for treating fluid retention, not seizures. Therefore, Phenytoin is the correct choice for managing seizures in patients with epilepsy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "Do not use near heat or flame." Albuterol is a bronchodilator inhaler, and using it near heat or flame can lead to the risk of fire due to its flammable nature. This instruction is crucial for patient safety. A: "Do not use this medication more than once a day" is incorrect because the frequency of albuterol inhaler use is typically based on the individual's condition and prescribed by the healthcare provider. B: "Rinse your mouth after every use to avoid infection" is not directly related to albuterol inhaler use. Rinsing the mouth is more commonly recommended with steroid inhalers to prevent oral thrush. D: "Take it with food to reduce GI discomfort" is not necessary for albuterol inhaler use as it is not typically associated with significant gastrointestinal side effects.