What is the pharmacological action of metformin?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Metformin is a commonly used medication for the management of type 2 diabetes. The correct answer is D) Decreases hepatic glucose production. Metformin primarily works by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver. This is achieved by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for gluconeogenesis, the process by which the liver produces glucose. Option A) Blocks stimulation of beta1 and beta2 is incorrect because metformin does not act on beta receptors. Option B) Blocks vasoconstriction and aldosterone is incorrect as metformin's primary mechanism of action is not related to blocking vasoconstriction or aldosterone. Option C) Acts at many levels in the CNS to produce an anxiolytic effect is also incorrect as metformin's main action is not in the central nervous system to produce anxiolytic effects. In an educational context, understanding the pharmacological action of metformin is crucial for healthcare professionals involved in the management of diabetes. By knowing that metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, healthcare providers can better tailor treatment regimens for their diabetic patients. This knowledge also helps in understanding how metformin contributes to improving glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Omeprazole should be administered in the morning on an empty stomach to maximize its effectiveness. This timing is important as omeprazole works best when taken before a meal to inhibit acid production by the stomach. Taking it on an empty stomach in the morning allows the medication to be absorbed efficiently and provides optimal therapeutic effects throughout the day.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Phenytoin is primarily used as an anticonvulsant to prevent and control seizures. It works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain, making it effective in managing conditions like epilepsy. Antidiabetic medications are used to regulate blood sugar levels, mood stabilizers help manage mood disorders, and antianxiety agents are used to reduce anxiety symptoms, none of which are the primary therapeutic action of Phenytoin.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, Penicillin belongs to the classification of antibiotics, making option C the correct answer. Penicillin is a widely used antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death. It is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria and is commonly prescribed for various infections. Option A, Antiarrhythmics, are medications used to treat irregular heart rhythms, and Penicillin does not fall under this category. Option B, Anticonvulsants, are drugs used to manage seizures, which is unrelated to the mechanism of action of Penicillin. Option D, Mood stabilizers, are used to manage conditions like bipolar disorder and do not have any relationship to Penicillin's antibacterial properties. Understanding the classification of drugs like Penicillin is crucial for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about drug therapy, prevent antibiotic resistance, and provide optimal patient care. It is essential to differentiate between drug classes to ensure safe and effective pharmacological interventions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is essential to understand the routes of administration for different medications to ensure their effectiveness and safety. In the case of lithium, which is commonly used to treat bipolar disorder, it is typically administered orally. The correct answer is C) Orally because lithium is well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract when taken by mouth. This route allows for controlled and gradual absorption, leading to optimal therapeutic levels in the blood. Option A) Intravenously is incorrect because lithium is not typically given intravenously due to the risk of rapid and unpredictable absorption, which can result in toxicity. Option B) Intramuscularly is also incorrect as lithium is not formulated for intramuscular administration, and this route may lead to inconsistent absorption and potential tissue irritation. Option D) Sublingually is incorrect because lithium is not designed to be administered under the tongue. Sublingual administration is reserved for medications that are specifically formulated for this route and are able to be rapidly absorbed through the mucous membranes. Educationally, understanding the appropriate route of administration for lithium is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers to ensure proper dosing, monitoring, and patient safety in the management of bipolar disorder. This knowledge helps prevent medication errors, adverse effects, and ensures the therapeutic effectiveness of the drug.