The following drug is contraindicated in bronchial asthma:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this case, the correct answer is C) Morphine, which is contraindicated in bronchial asthma. This is because morphine is a respiratory depressant that can suppress the respiratory drive, potentially leading to respiratory failure in individuals with asthma who already have compromised lung function. Option A) Nedocromil is a mast cell stabilizer commonly used in the management of asthma to prevent bronchospasms. Option B) Zafirlukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that helps in reducing inflammation in asthma. Option D) Salbutamol is a short-acting beta agonist that acts as a bronchodilator, commonly used as a rescue medication for acute asthma symptoms by relaxing the airway muscles. Educationally, understanding the contraindications of drugs in specific conditions like asthma is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide safe and effective care to patients. It highlights the importance of considering individual patient factors and the mechanism of action of drugs to make appropriate clinical decisions. This knowledge can prevent adverse outcomes and ensure optimal patient care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of respiratory pharmacology, the correct answer to the question is option A) Inhaled salbutamol. Salbutamol is a short-acting beta agonist that acts quickly to relieve bronchospasm, making it an ideal choice for acute bronchial asthma exacerbations. When inhaled, salbutamol works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, leading to bronchodilation and improved airflow. Option B) Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist, which is more commonly used for maintenance therapy in asthma to prevent symptoms rather than for quick relief during acute attacks. Option C) Nedocromil is a mast cell stabilizer that is also used for maintenance therapy in asthma and is not typically used for immediate relief of bronchospasm. Option D) Oral theophylline is a bronchodilator, but its use has declined due to a narrow therapeutic window, potential for toxicity, and the availability of safer and more effective alternatives like inhaled beta agonists. Educationally, understanding the differences between these medications is crucial for healthcare professionals managing patients with asthma. Knowing when to use quick-relief medications like salbutamol versus long-term control medications like montelukast can significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life. It is important to grasp the mechanism of action, indications, contraindications, and potential side effects of each drug to make informed clinical decisions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option A, which states that aspirin stimulates the synthesis of leukotrienes. Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is characterized by the overproduction of leukotrienes due to the inhibition of cyclooxygenase-1 by aspirin. Leukotrienes are potent bronchoconstrictors and pro-inflammatory molecules, leading to bronchospasm and other respiratory symptoms in susceptible individuals. Option B is incorrect because aspirin does not induce the formation of antibodies against salicylates on airway mast cells in this context. Option C is incorrect as aspirin does not directly induce hypersensitivity of H1 receptors on airway smooth muscles. Option D is incorrect because aspirin does not directly induce hypersensitivity of muscarinic receptors on airway smooth muscles. Educationally, understanding the mechanism of aspirin-induced bronchospasm is crucial for healthcare professionals managing patients with asthma and aspirin sensitivity. This knowledge helps in selecting appropriate treatment options and avoiding exacerbating factors in individuals with AERD. It also highlights the importance of individualized therapy based on the underlying pathophysiology of respiratory diseases.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Block of mediator release from mast cells. Nedocromil is a mast cell stabilizer that works by preventing the release of inflammatory mediators such as histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins from mast cells. This action helps to reduce bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, and airway inflammation in asthma. Option A, blocking of calcium channels in lymphocytes, is incorrect as nedocromil does not act on calcium channels in lymphocytes. Option C, smooth muscle relaxation in the bronchi, is also incorrect as nedocromil does not directly cause bronchodilation but rather works by preventing inflammatory responses. Option D, stimulation of cortisol release by the adrenals, is unrelated to the mechanism of action of nedocromil in treating asthma. In an educational context, understanding the mechanism of action of respiratory drugs like nedocromil is crucial for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about treatment options for patients with respiratory conditions. It also highlights the importance of knowing how different classes of medications work to achieve therapeutic outcomes in managing asthma and other respiratory diseases effectively.