A patient with type 2 diabetes is prescribed pioglitazone. Pioglitazone works by:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Improving insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues. Pioglitazone is a thiazolidinedione that acts as an insulin sensitizer by increasing insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues like muscle and fat cells. This helps the body use insulin more effectively to lower blood sugar levels. Choice A is incorrect because pioglitazone does not directly increase insulin secretion from the pancreas. Choice C is incorrect as pioglitazone does not affect glucose absorption in the intestines. Choice D is incorrect because pioglitazone does not increase renal glucose excretion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blocking angiotensin II receptors. Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by specifically blocking the angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1) receptors. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, and by blocking its action at the receptor level, losartan helps dilate blood vessels and reduce blood pressure. This mechanism is specific to ARBs and distinguishes them from other classes of antihypertensive medications. Choice B: Inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine is incorrect as this mechanism is associated with drugs like tricyclic antidepressants and not losartan. Choice C: Blocking calcium channels in the blood vessels is incorrect as this mechanism is associated with calcium channel blockers like amlodipine, not losartan. Choice D: Inhibiting aldosterone secretion is incorrect as this mechanism is associated with drugs like

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Bupropion inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine. This leads to increased levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression. This mechanism of action is well-documented in pharmacology and supported by clinical studies. Other choices are incorrect because bupropion does not primarily affect serotonin reuptake, block serotonin receptors, or increase the release of acetylcholine in the brain.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Constipation. Opioid medications slow down gut motility, leading to constipation. Opioids bind to receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing the movement of food and stool. This commonly results in constipation. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because nausea and vomiting, increased appetite, and dehydration are not common side effects specifically associated with opioid medications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Ipratropium bromide is a bronchodilator commonly used in COPD. 2. It works by relaxing muscles in the airways to improve breathing. 3. Asthma is typically treated with other bronchodilators like albuterol. 4. Hypertension is managed with antihypertensive medications. 5. Arrhythmia is treated with antiarrhythmic drugs. In summary, ipratropium bromide is specifically indicated for COPD due to its mechanism of action on the airways, making choices A, C, and D incorrect for this question.