QuEStioNS & DEtailED ExplaNatioNS | high-
YiElD BaSiC SCiENCES rEviSioN | uSMlE-StYlE
praCtiCE for MEDiCal StuDENtS | upDatED,
ExaM-foCuSED & tiME-SaviNg StuDY guiDE
Question 1:
What is the mechanism of action of beta-blockers?
• A) Inhibition of cyclooxygenase
• B) Blockade of beta-adrenergic receptors
• C) Activation of alpha-adrenergic receptors
• D) Inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme
Correct Option: B
RATIONALE: Beta-blockers selectively block beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to decreased
heart rate and contractility, and are commonly used for hypertension and heart failure.
Question 2:
Which of the following is a common side effect of opioid analgesics?
• A) Hypertension
• B) Diarrhea
• C) Constipation
• D) Insomnia
Correct Option: C
RATIONALE: Opioids can cause constipation by decreasing gastrointestinal motility and
increasing muscle tone in the sphincters.
Question 3:
What is the primary mechanism of action for statins?
• A) Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase
, • B) Inhibition of cholesterol absorption
• C) Bile acid sequestration
• D) Stimulation of lipoprotein lipase
Correct Option: A
RATIONALE: Statins primarily lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, the
rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis.
Question 4:
Which of the following drugs is a contraindication for use during pregnancy due to its
teratogenic effects?
• A) Acetaminophen
• B) Ibuprofen
• C) Isotretinoin
• D) Levothyroxine
Correct Option: C
RATIONALE: Isotretinoin is known to cause severe birth defects and is contraindicated in
pregnancy.
Question 5:
What class of drugs is used to manage hypertension by blocking calcium channels?
• A) Beta-blockers
• B) Calcium channel blockers
• C) ACE inhibitors
• D) Diuretics
Correct Option: B
RATIONALE: Calcium channel blockers lower blood pressure by preventing calcium influx into
vascular smooth muscle, leading to relaxation and vasodilation.
, Question 6:
What is the primary purpose of administering naloxone?
• A) Pain relief
• B) Sedation
• C) Opioid overdose reversal
• D) Antidepressant effects
Correct Option: C
RATIONALE: Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose.
Question 7:
Which of the following medications is a first-line treatment for hypertension?
• A) Furosemide
• B) Lisinopril
• C) Hydralazine
• D) Metoprolol
Correct Option: B
RATIONALE: Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, is often considered first-line therapy for hypertension.
Question 8:
What is the main effect of aspirin at low doses?
• A) Antipyretic
• B) Anti-inflammatory
• C) Antiplatelet
• D) Analgesic
Correct Option: C
RATIONALE: Low-dose aspirin primarily inhibits platelet aggregation, making it effective for
cardioprotection.