Which of the following medications is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety by enhancing GABA activity?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Lorazepam. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that enhances the activity of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps reduce anxiety. This mechanism of action is effective in treating anxiety disorders. Citalopram and Fluoxetine are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used to treat depression, not anxiety. Propranolol is a beta-blocker primarily used to treat high blood pressure and heart-related conditions, not anxiety. Therefore, Lorazepam is the correct choice for enhancing GABA activity to treat anxiety.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blocking calcium channels in the blood vessels. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that inhibits the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle cells, leading to vasodilation and decreased peripheral resistance. This ultimately results in reduced blood pressure. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because amlodipine does not affect norepinephrine reuptake, stimulate beta-1 adrenergic receptors, nor increase sodium excretion in the kidneys. These mechanisms are associated with other classes of antihypertensive medications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Alendronate. Alendronate is a bisphosphonate that works by slowing down bone loss and increasing bone density in osteoporosis. It inhibits osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue. Raloxifene (A) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator, not primarily used to increase bone density. Calcium carbonate (B) is a supplement to support bone health but not specifically for treating osteoporosis. Cholecalciferol (D) is a form of vitamin D used to support calcium absorption but does not directly increase bone density.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice A is correct: 1. Hydrocodone is an opioid analgesic. 2. Opioid analgesics work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. 3. By binding to these receptors, hydrocodone modulates pain perception and response. 4. This mechanism of action is how hydrocodone alleviates pain. Summary of why the other choices are incorrect: B: Inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine - This describes the mechanism of action for antidepressants, not opioids like hydrocodone. C: Inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis - This is the mechanism of action for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), not opioids. D: Blocking sodium channels in peripheral nerves - This is a mechanism seen with local anesthetics, not opioids.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: All of the above. Alprazolam, Lorazepam, and Diazepam are all benzodiazepines that enhance the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity, leading to reduced anxiety and panic. These medications work by binding to GABA receptors and increasing the inhibitory actions of GABA. Therefore, all three medications are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders. The other choices (A, B, C) are incorrect because each of these medications individually is commonly prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders by enhancing GABA effects.