Pharmacology Quiz on ASA and NSAIDs

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Questions and Answers

What is the most common toxicity associated with the use of ASA?

Fluid retention

Gastric irritation (correct)

Liver injury

Skin rash

Which of the following is a primary reason why acetaminophen is preferred over ASA for children?

It is less effective as an analgesic.

It does not cause gastric irritation. (correct)

It is only available in liquid form.

It has a higher risk of overdose.

Which mechanism is primarily involved in the action of NSAIDs like ibuprofen?

Inhibiting cytokine release

Enhancing platelet aggregation

Promoting the synthesis of prostaglandins

Blocking the conversion of arachidonic acid (correct)

What adverse effect is less likely to occur with NSAIDs compared to ASA?

Gastric irritation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism by which antihistamines alleviate allergy symptoms?

They block histamine receptors to prevent histamine binding. Signup and view all the answers

How can acetaminophen inadvertently lead to overdose?

It is often combined with other medications. Signup and view all the answers

Which class of drugs is considered more effective than antacids in reducing stomach acid secretion?

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) Signup and view all the answers

Which class of drugs primarily promotes the formation of protective prostaglandins?

COX-1 enzymes Signup and view all the answers

What is a common adverse effect of H₂ receptor antagonists?

Constipation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following drugs would likely not lead to significant central nervous system effects?

H₂ Receptor Antagonists Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk factor for liver injury due to acetaminophen overdose?

Alcohol use disorder Signup and view all the answers

What condition can be a result of chronic high-dose ASA intake?

Gastric irritation and increased bleeding Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of antacids?

To neutralize gastric acid and maintain stomach pH. Signup and view all the answers

Which drug class permanently inhibits acid secretion in the stomach?

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) Signup and view all the answers

What effect do decongestants have on blood vessels in the nasal passages?

They constrict blood vessels, reducing fluid leakage. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of long-term use of decongestants?

Increased nasal congestion over time. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs?

To allow the public to self-diagnose and treat mild symptoms. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a guideline for the use of OTC drugs?

Adverse effects should prompt immediate cessation of the drug. Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for new OTC drugs before they can be sold?

They must undergo rigorous preclinical testing for safety. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the best selection of OTC drugs?

The best OTC drug has a known level of toxicity and proves efficacy for the condition. Signup and view all the answers

What classification does acetylsalicylic acid fall under?

Internal Analgesic Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT a part of the control over OTC drugs as per the relevant regulations?

Sales volume metrics. Signup and view all the answers

How should OTC products be approached when considering their use?

Caution is needed due to potential toxicity and interactions. Signup and view all the answers

What is a specified limitation for self-medication with OTC products?

Self-medication should not exceed two weeks without consulting a physician. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common allergic reaction associated with the food color tartrazine?

Allergy to aspirin Signup and view all the answers

Why is sodium nitrate controversial in the food industry?

It can produce carcinogenic nitrosamines Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary functions of antioxidants in food additives?

To prevent rancidity and discoloration Signup and view all the answers

Which food additive has been shown to cause tightening of muscles, particularly in the face and neck?

MSG Signup and view all the answers

What method has been traditionally used in food preservation that also carries a small carcinogenic risk?

Smoke Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum number of food colors permitted for use in Canada?

10 Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of texture agents in food products?

To improve or give a specific texture Signup and view all the answers

Why are antibiotics banned in Canada within the context of food additives?

They contribute to antibiotic resistance Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of chemical sunscreens?

To absorb UV radiation before it penetrates the skin. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true about herbal medicines compared to allopathic medicine?

Herbal medicines are often unpurified and lack extensive testing. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk associated with the use of antacids in drug absorption?

They can alter the pH of stomach acid, affecting drug absorption. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes phytopharmaceuticals from herbal medicines?

Phytopharmaceuticals include evidence of efficacy and documented toxicity. Signup and view all the answers

What has contributed to the growing popularity of herbal drugs among the general public?

They are believed to have fewer side effects compared to synthetic drugs. Signup and view all the answers

Which is a characteristic of allopathic phytopharmaceuticals?

They have full status as drugs and meet all Drug requirements. Signup and view all the answers

Why do many herbal drugs lack sufficient safety and efficacy data?

Few have undergone randomized control trials. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major concern regarding herbal drug manufacturers and retailers?

They often promote herbal products for their financial gain. Signup and view all the answers

What must a manufacturer do if an additive is not listed in the List of Permitted Food Additives?

Provide information on proposed use, evidence of safety, and efficacy. Signup and view all the answers

How is the acceptable human dose of an additive determined based on animal studies?

It is calculated as either 1/100 or 1/1000 of the highest no-effect dose in animals. Signup and view all the answers

Why might toxicity estimates from animal studies overestimate actual human risk?

Studies typically last only a couple of years while humans can be exposed their entire lives. Signup and view all the answers

What typically happens to food additives that test positive for carcinogenicity?

They usually are not permitted to be used as food additives. Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions is the use of food additives considered justified?

To maintain or enhance the quality or acceptability of food. Signup and view all the answers

What has contributed to public mistrust regarding food additives?

Concerns about hyperactivity related to some food colours and preservatives. Signup and view all the answers

What is one example of a food additive that has been prohibited due to its toxic effects?

Cobalt chloride. Signup and view all the answers

Which class of food additives is described as being prevalent in foods?

Flavouring. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs are restricted to sale by prescription only.

Non-Prescription Drugs

Non-prescription (OTC) drugs can be sold to the general public without a prescription.
These drugs are sold on the premise that the public is able to diagnose mild symptoms and select appropriate treatment.

Guidelines for Using OTC Drugs

OTC drugs are not a replacement for prescription drugs or professional care.
Only use when symptoms are mild.
Consult a physician for serious symptoms or worsening conditions.
Stop using the drug immediately if adverse effects occur.
OTCs can have serious consequences, including drug interactions and toxicities.
If unsure, consult a pharmacist.
Self-medication should not exceed two weeks without consulting a physician.

Safety and Efficacy of OTC Drugs

The sale of OTCs is controlled by the Food and Drugs Act.
This act controls safety, efficacy, advertising, and sale of OTCs.
New OTCs undergo pre-clinical testing for safety.
Post-market safety surveillance is also conducted on OTCs.
Some prescription drugs become OTCs after extensive clinical trials.

Selection of Appropriate OTC Drugs

The best OTC drug for a condition will have proven efficacy and low toxicity.
Simpler formulations (single ingredient) are generally preferred.
Generics are usually cheaper and equally effective as brand name products.
Dosage forms and active ingredient dosages should be appropriate.

Common OTC Drugs

Internal Analgesics
- Acetylsalicylic Acid (Aspirin): Relieves pain, fever, and inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. Low doses can prevent stroke and heart attack. Common toxicity is gastric irritation.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Effective analgesic and antipyretic, equally to ASA, but does not cause gastric irritation. Overdose can lead to fatal liver injury.
- NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen): Effective analgesic, anti-inflammatory. Gastric irritation is less common than with Aspirin, but other side effects are possible.
Antihistamines
- Prevent the binding of histamine to receptors, thus decreasing allergic symptoms.
- First-generation antihistamines cause sedation.
- Second-generation antihistamines are less sedating.
Drugs for Excess Stomach Acid (Antacids)
- Neutralize stomach acid through acid-base reactions
- Systemically absorbed or are non-systemic
H₂ Receptor Antagonists
- Block H₂ receptors reducing stomach acid production.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
- Permanently bind to the proton pump, inhibiting acid secretion by almost 90%.
Decongestants
- Cause constriction of small blood vessels to reduce nasal congestion.
Cough Suppressants
- Centrally acting (codeine, dextromethorphan): Blocks the processing of cough information in the brain.
- Peripherally acting: Blocks nerve endings to inhibit the cough reflex.
Sleep Aids
- Example: Melatonin, is intended to help people fall asleep, or to relieve sleepiness.
Laxatives
- Stimulant laxatives increase the activity of the intestine and secretion.
- Bulk-forming and osmotic laxatives draw water into the stool, making it softer.
Antidiarrheal Agents
- Control diarrhea by absorbing certain substances or
- constraining the intestines.
Vitamins
- Vitamins should be obtained from an outside source (excludes Vitamin D and K which the body does produce).
- Water-soluble vitamins include C and B vitamins.
- Fat-soluble vitamins include A, D, E, K.
- Specific uses and deficiency symptoms are discussed in later notes.
Herbal Drugs
- Herbal drugs are derived from plants and are used to treat illnesses or improve health.
- Herbalists, the individuals practicing herbal medicine will sometimes give conflicting information with modern medicine. -Herbal drugs are widely used and many are gaining popularity due to the belief that natural products are generally safer.
- There are concerns that herbal products can be adulterated or contain substances other than what they may claim to contain (e.g., harmful toxins).
- Herbal drugs, like many drugs can have interactions with other drugs or conditions (e.g., allergies, or existing health conditions like kidney damage).

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Description

Test your knowledge on the common toxicities and the effects of ASA, acetaminophen, and NSAIDs in this pharmacology quiz. Explore the differences in mechanisms, adverse effects, and treatments related to pain relief and allergy symptoms. Perfect for healthcare students and professionals alike.