What decreases the renin angiotensin aldosterone system?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Angiotensin 2 receptor antagonists work by blocking the action of angiotensin 2 on its receptors, therefore inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). By inhibiting this system, angiotensin 2 receptor antagonists help to decrease blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart. This is in contrast to ACE inhibitors, which also affect the RAAS but work by preventing the formation of angiotensin 2 in the first place. Beta blockers, such as propranolol, work by blocking the effects of adrenaline (epinephrine) on beta receptors, mainly in the heart. While they are commonly used to manage high blood pressure and reduce the heart rate, they do not directly decrease the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system like angiotensin 2 receptor antagonists.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Furosemide is a diuretic medication that works in the loop of Henle in the kidneys to increase the excretion of water and electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. Its therapeutic effects include increasing the production of urine, reducing fluid retention, and lowering blood pressure. Due to its diuretic properties, furosemide is commonly prescribed for conditions such as edema (fluid retention) associated with congestive heart failure, liver disease, and kidney disorders.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The peak range of regular insulin typically occurs between 1 to 5 hours after administration. This means that regular insulin will reach its maximum effectiveness in lowering blood sugar levels during this time frame. Patients should be aware of this peak range to help manage their diabetes effectively and time their meals and activities accordingly.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Benzodiazepines are a class of psychoactive drugs that primarily work by enhancing the effect of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces the activity of nerve cells, resulting in a calming effect on the central nervous system. By increasing GABA activity, benzodiazepines help reduce feelings of anxiety and produce sedation or relaxation. This is why the correct answer is that all benzodiazepines reduce anxiety and produce sedation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Fibrinolytic drugs act by promoting the breakdown of blood clots or thrombi. These drugs activate plasminogen, which is present in the blood, to form plasmin. Plasmin is an enzyme that directly breaks down fibrin, the main protein in blood clots, thus dissolving the clot and facilitating the restoration of blood flow in the affected area. This mechanism of action helps in treating conditions such as acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) and ischemic stroke, where rapid clot dissolution is crucial to prevent tissue damage.