Which of the following are common side effects when taking the drug Phenytoin. Select all that apply.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Phenytoin is an antiepileptic drug that can commonly cause drowsiness, ataxia (loss of full control of bodily movements), and dry mouth as side effects. These side effects are important to monitor in patients taking Phenytoin to ensure their safety and well-being. Increased suicidal thoughts are not a common side effect associated with Phenytoin.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: ACE inhibitors decrease the renin angiotensin aldosterone system by blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II. By inhibiting this enzyme, ACE inhibitors reduce the production of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, and lower aldosterone secretion. This leads to vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, and reduced retention of sodium and water. Consequently, ACE inhibitors are commonly used in the management of hypertension, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Protamine sulfate is the antidote for Heparin. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting clotting factors in the blood. In cases of Heparin overdose or when a patient needs to quickly reverse the effects of Heparin, Protamine sulfate is administered as an antidote. Protamine sulfate works by binding to Heparin and neutralizing its anticoagulant effects, thus helping to restore normal clotting function. It is important to use Protamine sulfate cautiously as it can cause severe reactions in some individuals, especially those with allergies to fish, as Protamine is derived from fish sperm.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means that it helps lessen the loss of potassium from the body while still acting as a diuretic. This medication works by blocking the actions of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes the retention of sodium and water in the body, which can lead to potassium loss. Spironolactone helps to increase potassium levels in the body, making it a suitable choice for patients who are at risk of or experiencing low potassium levels while needing diuretic therapy. Options A, C, and D are not potassium-sparing diuretics, and they do not specifically help in lessening the loss of potassium from the body.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Platelets are the basic component of a blood clot. When there is an injury to a blood vessel, platelets are activated and aggregate at the site to form a plug, which is the first step in the clotting process. Platelets release chemicals that further promote clot formation, eventually leading to the formation of a stable blood clot. While fibrin, thrombin, thromboxane, and ADP are also involved in the clotting process, platelets play a central role in the initial formation of a blood clot.