A patient states he experiences anxiety and has panic attacks at least once a week. What might be helpful for this patient?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Alprazolam (Xanax) is the most appropriate choice for a patient who experiences anxiety and has panic attacks at least once a week. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine medication commonly used for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders. It acts as a central nervous system depressant and enhances the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, leading to a calming effect. Phenytoin (Dilantin) is an antiepileptic medication, Lithium is primarily used for bipolar disorder, and Spironolactone is a diuretic medication used for conditions like heart failure and hypertension; none of these medications are indicated for anxiety and panic attacks.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Senna is a stimulant laxative commonly used for the treatment of constipation. It is usually recommended for patients who have not passed stool in several days. Patients with conditions like eating disorders, hypersensitivity, anal fissures, or a history of hemorrhoids may have specific contraindications to using Senna, so they may not be suitable candidates for this medication.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that is commonly used to treat opioid overdoses, including Morphine overdoses. When a patient overdoses on Morphine, they may experience respiratory depression, sedation, and decreased level of consciousness. Naloxone rapidly reverses these effects by competitively binding to opioid receptors in the body, displacing the Morphine and restoring normal respiratory function. In a clinical setting, naloxone is typically administered intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously by healthcare providers, such as nurses, to quickly counteract the effects of the opioid overdose. It is important to note that while naloxone helps reverse the effects of the opioid overdose, ongoing medical care and monitoring are still essential for the patient's recovery.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Alprazolam is a medication commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This leads to a calming effect on the brain and central nervous system, helping to reduce feelings of anxiety and promote relaxation. Alprazolam is not indicated for preventing thrombus formation, decreasing the risk of stroke, or increasing urinary output.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The chemical name of a drug conveys the exact chemical structure of the compound, including the arrangement of atoms and bonds. It is a systematic name based on the chemical structure following specific nomenclature rules. This name is used to identify the compound internationally and is not subject to trademark or patent protection. The chemical name provides detailed information about the composition of the drug molecule, aiding in its identification, understanding its properties, and facilitating communication among researchers and healthcare professionals.