Which of the following neuromuscular blocking agents cause cardiac arrhythmias?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Succinylcholine. Succinylcholine can cause cardiac arrhythmias by inducing hyperkalemia, especially in patients with certain conditions like burns, denervation injuries, or spinal cord injuries. This hyperkalemia can lead to dangerous arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Vecuronium (A), Tubocurarine (B), and Rapacuronium (C) are not known to cause cardiac arrhythmias as they do not have the same mechanism of action as Succinylcholine.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Nadolol. Nadolol is a non-selective beta blocker with a long half-life, leading to an extended duration of action. It is typically dosed once daily, making it convenient for patients. Metoprolol (A) and Propranolol (B) have shorter durations of action compared to Nadolol. Pindolol (D) is a partial beta agonist and does not exhibit a long duration of action like Nadolol.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Zolpidem. Zolpidem is a hypnotic drug that selectively binds to the BZ1 receptor subtype, which enhances the inhibitory function of the neurotransmitter GABA. This specific binding to the BZ1 receptor subtype results in sedative and hypnotic effects without significant anxiolytic or muscle relaxant properties. Incorrect Choices: A: Thiopental - Thiopental is a barbiturate that acts on GABA receptors but does not selectively bind to the BZ1 receptor subtype. C: Flurazepam - Flurazepam is a benzodiazepine that primarily acts on the BZ2 receptor subtype, not the BZ1 receptor subtype. D: Phenobarbital - Phenobarbital is a barbiturate that enhances GABAergic transmission but does not selectively bind to the BZ1 receptor subtype. In summary, Zolpidem is the correct answer because it specifically targets the

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Topiramate. Topiramate is known for its high risk of causing cognitive side effects, such as memory impairment and confusion, due to its mechanism of action on neurotransmitters. Phenytoin (B), Valproate (C), and Gabapentin (D) are less likely to cause significant cognitive side effects compared to Topiramate. Phenytoin is more associated with motor coordination issues, Valproate with weight gain and liver toxicity, and Gabapentin with sedation and dizziness. Therefore, based on the pharmacological profile of each drug, Topiramate stands out as the drug with a high risk of cognitive side effects.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Morphine. Morphine is a strong mu receptor agonist because it binds to and activates the mu opioid receptors in the central nervous system, leading to potent analgesic effects. Naloxone (A) is an opioid receptor antagonist, not an agonist. Pentazocine (C) is a mixed opioid receptor agonist/antagonist. Buprenorphine (D) is a partial mu receptor agonist with mixed antagonist properties. Therefore, the other choices do not fit the criteria of being a strong mu receptor agonist like morphine.