Which of the following is an action of the drug Metformin?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Metformin is a commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. One of the main actions of Metformin is to decrease hepatic glucose production by suppressing gluconeogenesis in the liver. By reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, Metformin helps lower blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. This action helps improve insulin sensitivity and overall glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. The other options provided in the question do not describe the primary mechanism of action of Metformin.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Digoxin belongs to the class of drugs known as cardiac glycosides. Cardiac glycosides are a group of compounds derived from plants and some animals that have the ability to increase the contractility of the heart muscle. Digoxin is commonly used to treat conditions such as congestive heart failure and irregular heart rhythms. It works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium pump in heart muscle cells, leading to an increase in intracellular calcium levels and subsequently improving the heart's pumping ability.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Patients taking Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors should avoid salt substitutes, foods high in potassium, and foods high in sodium. Salt substitutes often contain potassium chloride, which may cause an increase in potassium levels when combined with ACE inhibitors. Foods high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, spinach, and potatoes, can also potentially elevate potassium levels when consumed in large amounts. Additionally, foods high in sodium can counteract the effects of ACE inhibitors in managing blood pressure. Therefore, it is important for patients on ACE inhibitors to be mindful of their intake of salt substitutes, high-potassium foods, and high-sodium foods to ensure the effectiveness of their medication and to prevent any potential complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Digoxin is commonly used to treat atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation by helping to control the heart rate. A loading dose may be given initially to reach therapeutic levels quickly. This medication acts by increasing the force of the heart's contractions and slowing down the heart rate. Propranolol (Choice B) is a beta-blocker used to treat various heart conditions, but it is not typically used for atrial arrhythmias like atrial flutter. Ibuprofen (Choice C) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used for pain and inflammation, not for cardiac arrhythmias. Lithium (Choice D) is a mood-stabilizing medication often used for bipolar disorder and is not indicated for atrial flutter treatment.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Thromboxane is a vasoconstrictor that is released by platelets during the process of blood clotting. Local vasoconstriction is a temporary response that occurs to reduce bleeding at the site of injury. Thromboxane plays a role in this process by constricting the blood vessels temporarily to limit blood flow to the injured area. By prolonging the application of thromboxane, vasoconstriction can be prolonged to support the clotting process and minimize bleeding. Adrenaline, steroids, heparin, and thrombin do not have the same vasoconstrictive properties as thromboxane.