Patients with Alzheimer's disease, which factors are associated with the pathophysiology of this disease? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because neuronal degeneration and decreased acetylcholine are key factors associated with the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease. Neuronal degeneration leads to cognitive decline, while decreased acetylcholine contributes to memory impairment. Incorrect Responses: B: Autoimmune changes in the myelin sheath are not typically associated with Alzheimer's disease, as it primarily involves neuronal degeneration. C: Beta-amyloid and neuritic plaques are characteristic pathological features of Alzheimer's disease, but they are not directly associated with the underlying pathophysiology. D: Neurofibrillary tangles and tau are also pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, but they are not the primary factors driving the disease process.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because as people age, physiological changes can impact drug metabolism and clearance. Older adults may require a higher dosage to achieve the same therapeutic effect as younger individuals. This is due to factors such as decreased organ function and changes in body composition. Choice B is incorrect because body weight can affect drug distribution and dosing but not always the therapeutic response directly. Choice C is incorrect as smoking can affect drug metabolism but not always result in faster metabolism. Choice D is incorrect as attitude and expectations may influence placebo effects but not directly impact drug action.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: To determine when 25 mg of the drug will be eliminated, we first calculate the time it takes for half the initial dose to be eliminated, which is 8 hours. So, by 2:00 PM (8 hours after administration), 25 mg will be eliminated. This is because half of the initial 50 mg (25 mg) would have been metabolized by then. Therefore, the correct answer is C. Choice A (8:00 AM) is incorrect because it is too early for 25 mg to be eliminated. Choice B (11:00 AM) is incorrect because it is only 5 hours after administration, not enough time for 25 mg to be eliminated. Choice D (6:00 PM) is incorrect because it is too late, as 25 mg would have been eliminated by 2:00 PM.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Caspofungin. This drug is appropriate for systemic antifungal treatment as it inhibits the synthesis of beta-glucan in fungal cell walls. It is effective against a broad spectrum of fungal infections. Amphotericin B (A) is also a systemic antifungal but is associated with more severe side effects. Piperacillin (C) is an antibiotic not used for antifungal treatment. Metronidazole (D) is an antiprotozoal and antibiotic, not effective against systemic fungal infections.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Amphotericin B and fluconazole. Amphotericin B is an antifungal medication used for severe fungal infections, while fluconazole is commonly used for less severe fungal infections. The combination of these two drugs would be most likely given to treat a severe fungal infection that requires immediate and potent treatment. A: Amphotericin B and terbinafine - Terbinafine is primarily used to treat fungal infections of the skin and nails, not severe systemic fungal infections. B: Caspofungin and griseofulvin - Griseofulvin is used to treat superficial fungal infections like ringworm, while caspofungin is used for systemic fungal infections. C: Caspofungin and metronidazole - Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections, not fungal infections.