Which of the following medications is used to reduce inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Methotrexate. Methotrexate is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) commonly used to reduce inflammation and slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. It works by suppressing the immune system and reducing the inflammation that causes joint damage. Ibuprofen (B) and Celecoxib (D) are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that can help with pain relief but do not target the underlying inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. Hydroxychloroquine (C) is another DMARD used in rheumatoid arthritis treatment, but it is primarily used for its immunomodulating effects rather than its anti-inflammatory properties.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Replacing deficient thyroid hormone. Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to various symptoms. By prescribing levothyroxine, we are supplying the body with the thyroid hormone it lacks, thereby replacing the deficient hormone and restoring normal thyroid function. Explanation of other choices: A: Increasing the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is incorrect because levothyroxine does not directly affect TSH production. C: Inhibiting thyroid hormone synthesis is incorrect because levothyroxine does not inhibit thyroid hormone production. D: Increasing the metabolism of thyroid hormones is incorrect because levothyroxine does not directly increase the metabolism of existing thyroid hormones; it simply replaces the deficient hormone.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Constipation. Opioid medications slow down the movement of the digestive system, leading to constipation. This is a well-known side effect of opioids due to their action on opioid receptors in the gut. Nausea and vomiting can also occur but are less common than constipation. Diarrhea is actually a less common side effect of opioids. Increased appetite is not a typical side effect of opioid medications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blocking beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart. Bisoprolol is a beta-blocker that specifically targets beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to reduced heart rate and blood pressure. This helps in managing hypertension. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because bisoprolol does not target beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, does not affect sodium excretion in the kidneys, and does not inhibit the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. The mechanism of action of bisoprolol primarily involves its selective blockade of beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, making choice A the correct answer.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Epinephrine. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis as it works quickly to reverse symptoms and prevent potentially life-threatening complications. It acts by constricting blood vessels, relaxing smooth muscles, and reducing swelling. Diphenhydramine (A) provides relief for mild allergic reactions but is not as fast-acting or potent as epinephrine. Loratadine (C) is an antihistamine that helps with allergy symptoms but is not suitable for treating anaphylaxis. Albuterol (D) is a bronchodilator used for respiratory conditions like asthma and would not be effective in treating anaphylaxis.