NSG 552 Exam 1 – Wilkes University | Comprehensive Practice Questions & Correct Answers (Stahl’s Essential Psychopharmacology 5th Edition Test Bank)

NSG 552 Exam 1 – Wilkes University |
Comprehensive Practice Questions &
Correct Answers (Stahl’s Essential
Psychopharmacology 5th Edition Test Bank)

Question 1
What neurotransmitters are primarily involved in depression according to the monoamine
hypothesis?
Answer: Serotonin and norepinephrine
Rationale: The monoamine hypothesis suggests that deficiencies in serotonin and
norepinephrine contribute to depression.



Question 2
What are the top distressing side effects of antidepressant selection?
Answer: Sexual dysfunction, sleep disturbances, weight gain
Rationale: These are common side effects reported by patients on antidepressants, impacting
treatment adherence.



Question 3
Which neurotransmitter is primarily targeted by antipsychotics for psychosis treatment?
Answer: Dopamine
Rationale: Antipsychotics block dopamine D2 receptors to reduce psychotic symptoms.



Question 4
What is the primary function of neurotrophic factors in the brain?
Answer: Promote the growth and survival of neurons
Rationale: Neurotrophic factors, like BDNF, support neuronal health and plasticity.



Question 5
Which medication is associated with dose-related seizures in patients taking clozapine?

,Answer: Topiramate
Rationale: Topiramate can lower the seizure threshold, increasing risk in clozapine patients.



Question 6
What is characterized by bradykinesia, masklike face, cogwheel rigidity, and pill-rolling tremor?
Answer: Pseudo-Parkinsonism
Rationale: These are extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) mimicking Parkinson’s disease, caused
by antipsychotics.



Question 7
What is the onset time for acute dystonia as a side effect of antipsychotics?
Answer: Hours to days
Rationale: Acute dystonia occurs early after starting antipsychotics.



Question 8
What is the onset time for tardive dyskinesia?
Answer: Months to years
Rationale: Tardive dyskinesia develops after prolonged antipsychotic use.



Question 9
What is characterized by torticollis and oculogyric crisis?
Answer: Acute dystonia
Rationale: These are involuntary muscle contractions caused by antipsychotics.



Question 10
What is akathisia characterized by?
Answer: Internal and external restlessness, need to pace
Rationale: Akathisia is a common EPS causing discomfort and movement urges.



Question 11
Why should medications like Cogentin not be co-prescribed to prevent EPS?
Answer: May mask symptoms and increase side effects
Rationale: Prophylactic use can obscure early EPS detection and cause anticholinergic effects.

, Question 12
What is involuntary teeth grinding associated with antipsychotics called?
Answer: Bruxism
Rationale: Bruxism is a side effect of antipsychotics affecting jaw muscles.



Question 13
Which antipsychotics have less incidence of antiadrenergic, anticholinergic, and antihistaminic
side effects but greater EPS?
Answer: High-potency antipsychotics
Rationale: High-potency drugs like haloperidol have stronger D2 blockade, increasing EPS.



Question 14
Which antipsychotics have greater incidence of antiadrenergic, anticholinergic, and
antihistaminic side effects but less EPS?
Answer: Low-potency antipsychotics
Rationale: Low-potency drugs like chlorpromazine have broader receptor effects, reducing EPS.



Question 15
What is the primary neurotransmitter network involved in mood disorders?
Answer: Norepinephrine and GABA
Rationale: These neurotransmitters regulate mood stability.



Question 16
What is the role of serotonin in psychopharmacology?
Answer: Regulates mood, sleep, and appetite
Rationale: Serotonin imbalances are linked to depression and anxiety.



Question 17
What is the primary target of antidepressants classified as SSRIs?
Answer: Serotonin transporters
Rationale: SSRIs inhibit serotonin reuptake, increasing its availability.