A 49-year-old man with manic depression has been maintained on lithium for long-term therapy. However, because of worsening of symptoms, he is placed on ziprasidone. The patient must be warned about which of the following adverse effects?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Slowing of heart rate. Ziprasidone is an atypical antipsychotic medication that can cause QT interval prolongation, which may lead to bradycardia or slowing of the heart rate. Educating the patient about this potential adverse effect is crucial for monitoring and preventing any complications. Option A) Asthenia refers to weakness or lack of energy, which is not a commonly reported side effect of ziprasidone. Option B) Erectile dysfunction is a side effect commonly associated with some other antipsychotic medications but not typically linked to ziprasidone. Option C) Hypertension is also not a common side effect of ziprasidone; in fact, it is more likely to cause hypotension rather than hypertension. In an educational context, understanding the potential adverse effects of medications is essential for healthcare providers to ensure patient safety and adherence to treatment. Educating patients about possible side effects empowers them to recognize and report any concerning symptoms promptly, leading to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acute gout attacks require rapid inflammation reduction. Colchicine (choice B) disrupts microtubule function, reducing neutrophil activity. Indomethacin (choice C), an NSAID, inhibits COX, lowering prostaglandin levels. Glucocorticoids (choice D) suppress inflammation broadly. Allopurinol (choice A), a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, lowers uric acid long-term but doesn't address acute inflammation, making it the exception. This distinction guides acute versus chronic gout management.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Colchicine (choice B) treats acute gout by reducing inflammation, Allopurinol (choice C) lowers uric acid long-term, and Sulphinpyrazone (choice D) promotes urate excretion. Thiazide diuretics (choice A) increase uric acid retention, worsening gout, making them the exception. This distinguishes gout management from contraindicated drugs.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Flurazepam (choice A), Triazolam (choice B), and Chlordiazepoxide (choice C), all benzodiazepines, initiate sleep via GABAa potentiation, differing in duration (long, short, intermediate). ‘All of the above' (choice D) is correct, as each is a hypnotic, tailored to insomnia needs, highlighting benzodiazepine versatility.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this CNS Stimulants Drugs Pharmacology Quiz question, the correct answer is B) Hepatic microsomal enzyme induction. MAO inhibitors, such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine, are commonly used in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders. One of the well-known side effects of MAO inhibitors is the "cheese reaction," which is a potentially dangerous interaction with tyramine-containing foods like aged cheeses and cured meats that can lead to a hypertensive crisis. Option A) Cheese reaction is incorrect because it is a known side effect of MAO inhibitors. Option C) Hepatotoxicity is incorrect because although it is a potential side effect of MAO inhibitors, it is not an exception and can occur with their use. Option D) None of the above is incorrect because as discussed above, both options A and C are side effects associated with MAO inhibitors. Educationally, understanding the side effects of MAO inhibitors is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure safe prescribing practices and patient education. Recognizing these side effects can help prevent adverse drug reactions and improve patient outcomes. Understanding the exceptions can also aid in differential diagnosis and treatment planning.