What is the therapeutic use of levothyroxine?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It is primarily used for the treatment of hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. By providing exogenous levothyroxine, the medication helps to restore the normal hormonal balance in the body. This can alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and other issues related to an underactive thyroid gland. Levothyroxine is not used for the suppression of seizure activity, decreased frequency of migraines, or treatment of ulcers.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The MMR vaccine is cultured in chick embryo fibroblasts and may contain trace amounts of egg protein, posing a risk to individuals with severe egg allergies. Hepatitis B, inactivated polio, and DTaP vaccines do not contain egg proteins and are safe for this child. Precautions should be taken, and the vaccine should be administered under medical supervision if absolutely necessary.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine and is commonly used for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone to meet the body's needs, leading to various symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression. By providing exogenous levothyroxine, the medication helps restore normal thyroid hormone levels in the body, thereby alleviating the symptoms of hypothyroidism and restoring normal hormonal balance. It is important to monitor thyroid hormone levels regularly when on levothyroxine therapy to ensure optimal dosing and maintenance of normal thyroid function.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication commonly used to prevent and treat blood clots, specifically thromboembolic events. It works by inhibiting the production of certain clotting factors in the liver, thereby reducing the risk of clot formation in blood vessels. Warfarin is often prescribed for conditions such as atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism to help prevent strokes, heart attacks, and other complications associated with blood clots. It is not used for suppressing seizure activity, causing laxative action, or relieving anginal attacks.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Administering 50% dextrose solution directly to a 1-year-old child is unsafe due to the risk of hyperosmolar injury to veins and tissues. Diluting it 1:1 with sterile water reduces the concentration to 25%, making it safer for pediatric administration. Using a filter needle (A) or tuberculin syringe (B) is not necessary for this preparation. Shaking the solution (D) is inappropriate and could introduce air bubbles.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means that it helps the body get rid of excess sodium and water while retaining potassium. This is accomplished by blocking the action of aldosterone, a hormone that normally causes the kidneys to retain sodium and water and excrete potassium. Potassium-sparing diuretics like spironolactone are often used in conjunction with other diuretics to prevent potassium loss and maintain electrolyte balance. In contrast, options A, C, and D (Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Bumetanide) are loop diuretics or thiazide diuretics which promote the excretion of both sodium and potassium.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Adverse effects of amiodarone include QT prolongation and gray coloring of the skin on the face, arms, and neck.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Cyclophosphamide can cause hemorrhagic cystitis, a serious side effect resulting from the irritation of the bladder lining by its metabolites. To prevent this, patients must maintain high fluid intake (at least 2 liters per day) to dilute the urine and flush out the bladder. While emptying the bladder regularly is important, it is secondary to ensuring adequate hydration. Limiting fluid intake is contraindicated, as it increases the risk of bladder toxicity. An indwelling urinary catheter is not routinely required unless the patient has urinary retention.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The term "effervescent" refers to the process of a gas being released from a substance when added to water. This is commonly observed when certain tablets or powders are added to water, resulting in the production of bubbles or fizz. Mucilage refers to a thick, sticky substance, while spirits typically refer to alcoholic beverages. Collyria are eye drops, and collodion is a solution used in photography and medicine. Therefore, the correct term for the described process is "effervescent."