What is dystonia?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Abnormal muscle tone resulting in spasms and abnormal posture. Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterized by sustained muscle contractions, causing repetitive movements or abnormal postures. This leads to spasms and involuntary muscle movements, resulting in abnormal posture. Choice B is incorrect because dystonia is not characterized by excessive muscle relaxation, but rather by muscle contractions. Choice C is incorrect as dystonia does not involve muscle weakness, but rather involuntary muscle contractions. Choice D is incorrect because dystonia is not primarily characterized by muscle pain, but by abnormal muscle tone and posture.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Sedation and respiratory depression. Benzodiazepines are known to cause sedative effects by enhancing the action of GABA in the brain, leading to relaxation and drowsiness. Respiratory depression can occur, especially in high doses or when combined with other depressants. Option B is incorrect as benzodiazepines typically do not increase energy and alertness but rather have a calming effect. Option C is also incorrect as weight gain and increased appetite are not commonly associated with benzodiazepines. Option D is incorrect because benzodiazepines do have side effects, including sedation and respiratory depression.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because chlorpromazine is known to cause extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) such as tremors and muscle stiffness, as well as orthostatic hypotension. EPS are common side effects of typical antipsychotics like chlorpromazine due to dopamine receptor blockade. Choices B and C are incorrect because weight gain, increased appetite, sedation, and respiratory depression are not typically associated with chlorpromazine. Therefore, option A is the best choice based on the known side effects of chlorpromazine.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because lithium toxicity can manifest with a range of symptoms affecting different body systems. Tremors and ataxia (A) are common neuromuscular symptoms. Confusion and convulsions (B) are neurological symptoms. Nausea and vomiting (C) are gastrointestinal symptoms. Therefore, all of the above (D) are potential side effects of lithium toxicity due to its impact on various bodily functions. It is important to recognize and monitor for these symptoms to prevent serious complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, "All of the above." Nortriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, can cause sedation, orthostatic hypotension, dry mouth, urinary retention, cardiac dysrhythmias, and decreased libido. Sedation and orthostatic hypotension are common side effects due to its anticholinergic and alpha-adrenergic blocking properties. Dry mouth and urinary retention are also common due to its anticholinergic effects. Cardiac dysrhythmias can occur due to its effects on sodium channels, and decreased libido is a potential side effect. Therefore, all the mentioned side effects can occur with nortriptyline use.