What is the pharmacological action of metformin?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Metformin belongs to the class of medications known as biguanides. Biguanides work by decreasing glucose production in the liver and also improving insulin sensitivity in the muscles, helping to lower blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, metformin can also reduce glucose absorption in the intestines and increase glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. Its main pharmacological action is to improve glycemic control and reduce hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Metformin belongs to the class of medications known as biguanides. Biguanides work primarily by decreasing glucose production in the liver and increasing insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, such as muscles. They also help improve glucose uptake and utilization by cells, leading to better control of blood sugar levels. Metformin is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus and can also be used in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: One life-threatening side effect of lithium therapy is the risk of seizures. While seizures are a rare side effect, they can occur, especially at higher doses or in patients with a history of seizure disorders. It is important to monitor for any signs of seizures in patients taking lithium and to promptly address any potential neurological symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Morphine is the prototype of narcotic analgesic agents. It is a strong opioid analgesic that is commonly used for the relief of severe pain. Morphine acts on the central nervous system to reduce the perception of pain and is often used in medical settings, such as hospitals, to manage post-operative pain or pain associated with certain medical conditions like cancer. Other opioids, such as codeine, heroin, meperidine, and oxycodone, are derived from or related to morphine but may have different or varying levels of potency, side effects, and addiction potential.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A spirit is an alcoholic or hydroalcoholic solution of volatile substances obtained by distillation. It is commonly used in the production of alcoholic beverages and in the pharmaceutical industry for preparing tinctures and extracts. Spirits are characterized by their high alcohol content and ability to extract and preserve the properties of the substances they are derived from. Decoction is a method of extracting compounds from plants using boiling water, fluid extract is a concentrated liquid extract of a substance, solution refers to a homogeneous mixture of substances, and syrup is a thick, sweet liquid usually made by dissolving sugar in water.