A gastric ulcer patient requires close follow-up to document complete ulcer healing because

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of drugs for gastrointestinal disorders, it is crucial for a gastric ulcer patient to undergo close follow-up to document complete ulcer healing because there is a risk of the ulcer being cancerous (Option C). Gastric ulcers have the potential to develop into gastric cancer, especially if left untreated or not monitored closely. Detecting any signs of malignancy early through follow-up examinations is essential for timely intervention and improved outcomes. Option A is incorrect because while perforation into the intestine is a serious complication of gastric ulcers, it is not the primary reason for close follow-up to document healing. Option B is incorrect as relying on spontaneous healing without proper monitoring can lead to complications and delayed treatment if healing does not occur. Option D is also incorrect as chronic and recurring symptoms would necessitate ongoing management but are not the primary reason for the need for close follow-up to monitor ulcer healing. In an educational context, understanding the potential complications of gastric ulcers, including the risk of malignancy, highlights the importance of regular monitoring and follow-up in patients undergoing treatment for gastrointestinal disorders. Emphasizing the significance of surveillance in detecting complications early can improve student comprehension and reinforce the importance of thorough patient care in clinical practice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of drugs for gastrointestinal disorders, understanding the mechanisms of gastric acid secretion is crucial. The correct answer, D) Histamine stimulation of the H₂ receptor, is right because histamine acts on the H₂ receptors on parietal cells in the stomach lining, leading to increased production of gastric acid. Option A) Vagal stimulation is incorrect because vagal stimulation actually inhibits gastric acid secretion by releasing somatostatin. Option B) Gastrin is incorrect because although it stimulates gastric acid secretion, it does so indirectly by acting on enterochromaffin-like cells to release histamine. Option C) Acetylcholine stimulation of the M₁ receptor is also incorrect because acetylcholine primarily stimulates gastrin release rather than directly stimulating gastric acid secretion. Educationally, understanding the specific pathways involved in gastric acid secretion helps in targeting these processes with appropriate drugs for conditions like peptic ulcers or acid reflux. Knowing the roles of different stimuli and receptors can guide the selection of pharmacological interventions to modulate gastric acid levels effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is C) Mental confusion in the elderly. Cimetidine is a histamine H2-receptor antagonist commonly used to treat gastrointestinal disorders like peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease. One of the well-documented side effects of cimetidine is its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to central nervous system effects such as mental confusion, particularly in the elderly population who may be more sensitive to its anticholinergic properties. This side effect is reversible upon discontinuation of the medication. Option A) Transient increase in serum prolactin is not associated with cimetidine therapy. Cimetidine does not have a direct effect on prolactin levels. Option B) Irreversible gynaecomastia is not a known side effect of cimetidine therapy. While cimetidine can inhibit the metabolism of certain hormones leading to changes in the endocrine system, gynaecomastia is not a common manifestation. Option D) Asystole after rapid intravenous injection is not a recognized adverse effect of cimetidine therapy. Asystole is a severe cardiac condition that is not typically attributed to the use of cimetidine. Educational Context: Understanding the potential side effects of medications used to treat gastrointestinal disorders is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide safe and effective care to their patients. Educating healthcare providers about the specific adverse effects of medications like cimetidine can help in early recognition and management of any complications that may arise during treatment. It is important to consider individual patient factors such as age and comorbidities when prescribing medications to minimize the risk of adverse events.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Masking symptoms of gastric cancer. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly used to treat gastrointestinal disorders by reducing the production of stomach acid. However, one potential problem associated with PPI use is that they can mask the symptoms of gastric cancer. Gastric cancer can present with symptoms such as stomach pain, indigestion, and heartburn, which are also common symptoms of conditions that PPIs are used to treat. By suppressing acid production, PPIs can alleviate these symptoms, leading to a delay in the diagnosis of gastric cancer. Option B) Diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting are not typically associated with PPI use. These side effects are more commonly seen with other medications or gastrointestinal conditions. Option C) Increased risk of gastrointestinal infection is not a well-documented problem with PPI use. While long-term PPI use may have some associations with certain infections, it is not a primary concern associated with these medications. Option D) Headache is a relatively uncommon side effect of PPI use and is not a significant problem compared to other potential complications like masking symptoms of gastric cancer. Educationally, understanding the potential pitfalls of PPI use is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure appropriate diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal conditions. Recognizing the risk of masking symptoms of serious conditions like gastric cancer highlights the importance of judicious use of PPIs and thorough evaluation of patients with persistent or concerning symptoms.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of drugs for gastrointestinal disorders, Cyclizine is commonly used as an antiemetic to treat nausea and vomiting. The correct answer, D) Causes dry mouth, is accurate because Cyclizine is known to cause anticholinergic side effects, including dry mouth, due to its mechanism of action as a histamine H1 receptor antagonist. Option A) Is a dopamine receptor antagonist is incorrect because Cyclizine is not primarily a dopamine antagonist; its main mechanism of action is through histamine receptor blockade. Option B) Is effective in morphine-induced vomiting is incorrect because Cyclizine is not specifically indicated for morphine-induced vomiting, although it can be used to manage nausea and vomiting in various conditions. Option C) Is a proven teratogen is incorrect because while caution is advised during pregnancy, Cyclizine is not classified as a proven teratogen. In an educational context, understanding the side effects and mechanisms of action of drugs for gastrointestinal disorders is crucial for safe and effective patient care. By knowing that Cyclizine can cause dry mouth, healthcare professionals can anticipate and manage this common side effect. This knowledge also helps in making informed decisions about drug selection and patient counseling regarding potential side effects.