20 Questions
What is the difference between toxicity and secondary effects of a drug?
Toxicity implies a direct action of the drug, often at high dose, damaging cells; secondary effects are the indirect consequences of a primary drug action
What is an adverse drug reaction?
A harmful or seriously unpleasant effect occurring at therapeutic doses
What is an adverse 'event' in the context of drug exposure?
A harmful happening during exposure to a drug, without assuming its cause
What is the difference between intolerance and idiosyncrasy in relation to drug reactions?
Intolerance implies an inherent qualitative abnormal reaction to a drug, while idiosyncrasy refers to a low threshold to the normal pharmacodynamic action
When does an adverse drug reaction occur?
At any time during or after treatment with the drug
Which type of adverse drug reaction (ADR) is characterized by being unrelated to the known pharmacological effects of the drug?
Type B
What is a common feature of allergic reactions to drugs?
Cross allergy
How do diagnostic tests usually fare in assessing adverse drug reactions?
Rarely specific for the drug
What is one of the methods used in establishing causality in adverse drug reactions?
Effect of withdrawing and reintroducing the drug
What is a key role of investigations in the assessment of adverse drug reactions?
Ruling out alternative diagnoses
What is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis?
Adrenaline (Epinephrine)
Which receptor does adrenaline act directly on to inhibit mast cell activation?
Beta-2 adrenergic receptor
What is the recommended adrenaline (epinephrine) dose for an adult or child over 12 years during an anaphylactic reaction?
500 micrograms IM
What is the main mechanism of action of adrenaline in reversing the effects of anaphylaxis?
Suppressing histamine and leukotriene release
When is anaphylaxis likely according to the provided criteria?
When a patient has skin or mucosal involvement after exposure to a known allergen
What is the initial step in the drug management of anaphylaxis?
Administering adrenaline intramuscularly
What is the pharmacological basis of administering adrenaline for anaphylaxis?
To counteract hypotension and tachycardia
Which of the following is a potential adverse effect of adrenaline administration for anaphylaxis?
Hypokalemia
Other than adrenaline, what is a second-line medical management option for anaphylaxis?
Intravenous corticosteroids
Which symptom is NOT characteristic of anaphylaxis?
Nasal congestion
Learn about early identification and drug management of anaphylaxis, with a focus on the pharmacological basis, administration of adrenaline, doses, adverse effects, and second line medical management.
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