Pharmacology Quiz: Respiratory System Drugs (MCQs with Answers & Explanations)

Pharmacology MCQs with Explanations

Pharmacology MCQs with Explanations

15.1 The following expectorant acts both directly on the airway mucosa as well as reflexly:

A. Potassium iodide
B. Gualphenesin
C. Terpin hydrate
D. Bromhexine

Correct Answer: B - Gualphenesin

Gualphenesin acts as an expectorant by both directly irritating the airway mucosa to increase secretions and reflexly stimulating the gastric mucosa to enhance bronchial secretion. This dual mechanism makes it effective in loosening and thinning mucus.

15.2 Bromhexine acts by:

A. Inhibiting cough centre
B. Irritating gastric mucosa and reflexly increasing bronchial secretion
C. Depolymerizing mucopolysaccharides present in sputum.
D. Desensitizing stretch receptors in the lungs

Correct Answer: C - Depolymerizing mucopolysaccharides present in sputum.

Bromhexine works by depolymerizing mucopolysaccharides in the sputum, which reduces the viscosity of mucus, making it easier to expectorate. This action helps in clearing the airways more effectively.

15.3 Codeine is used clinically as:

A. Analgesic
B. Antitussive
C. Antidiarrhoeal
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

Codeine is a versatile drug used as an analgesic for mild to moderate pain, an antitussive to suppress cough, and an antidiarrheal due to its ability to reduce intestinal motility. Its multifaceted uses make it valuable in various clinical scenarios.

15.4 Muoximetic is a drug which:

A. Reduces airway mucus secretion
B. Increases airway mucus secretion
C. Makes respiratory secretions more watery
D. Stimulates mucociliary activity of bronchial epithelium

Correct Answer: C - Makes respiratory secretions more watery

A mucolytic agent like Muoximetic works by making respiratory secretions more watery, thereby reducing their viscosity. This facilitates easier clearance of mucus from the airways, improving breathing in patients with respiratory conditions.

15.5 Antitussives act by:

A. Liquifying bronchial secretions
B. Raising the threshold of cough centre
C. Reducing cough inducing impulses from the lung
D. Both ‘B’ and ‘C’ are correct

Correct Answer: D - Both ‘B’ and ‘C’ are correct

Antitussives suppress cough by raising the threshold of the cough center in the brain and reducing cough-inducing impulses from the lungs. This dual action helps in effectively controlling persistent or irritating coughs.

15.6 Dextromethorphan is an:

A. Analgesic
B. Antitussive
C. Expectorant
D. Antihistamine

Correct Answer: B - Antitussive

Dextromethorphan is a widely used antitussive that acts on the central nervous system to suppress the cough reflex. Unlike opioids, it has no analgesic or addictive properties, making it a safer option for cough suppression.

15.7 Which of the following is not an antitussive:

A. Oxeladin
B. Clophedianol
C. Dextropropoxyphene
D. Dextromethorphan

Correct Answer: C - Dextropropoxyphene

Dextropropoxyphene is primarily a codeine-like analgesic with poor antitussive action. Its levoisomer has antitussive properties, but the dextro form is not effective for cough suppression.

15.8 The following antitussive is present in opium but has no analgesic or addicting properties:

A. Noscapine
B. Codeine
C. Pholcodeine
D. Ethylmorphine

Correct Answer: A - Noscapine

Noscapine is an alkaloid found in opium that acts as an antitussive without the analgesic or addictive effects associated with other opium derivatives like codeine or morphine. This makes it suitable for cough suppression without the risk of dependence.

15.9 Which of the following ingredients has neither specific antitussive nor expectorant nor bronchodilator action, but is commonly present in proprietary cough formulations:

A. Ambroxol
B. Chlorpheniramine
C. Guaitenesin
D. Noscapine

Correct Answer: B - Chlorpheniramine

Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine often included in cough formulations for its sedative and antiallergic effects, even though it lacks direct antitussive, expectorant, or bronchodilator properties. It helps alleviate symptoms like sneezing and runny nose associated with coughs.

15.10 Bronchodilator, methylxanthine, is used for:

A. Increasing airflow in asthma
B. Decreasing lung inflammation
C. Increasing bronchial secretion
D. Decreasing coughing reflex

Correct Answer: A - Increasing airflow in asthma

Methylxanthines, like theophylline, are bronchodilators used to increase airflow in patients with asthma by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways. They are less commonly used due to side effects but can be effective in certain cases of chronic asthma management.

15.11 Which of the following is a beta-2 adrenergic agonist used as a bronchodilator?

A. Salbutamol
B. Atropine
C. Codeine
D. Prednisolone

Correct Answer: A - Salbutamol

Salbutamol is a selective beta-2 adrenergic agonist used to relax bronchial smooth muscles, leading to bronchodilation. It is commonly used for relieving symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

15.12 Which of the following is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used in asthma management?

A. Montelukast
B. Fluticasone
C. Theophylline
D. Salmeterol

Correct Answer: A - Montelukast

Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that helps in controlling asthma by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are chemicals that promote inflammation and constriction of airways.

15.13 The mechanism of action of corticosteroids in asthma is:

A. Increasing bronchodilation
B. Reducing airway inflammation
C. Blocking histamine receptors
D. Inhibiting acetylcholine release

Correct Answer: B - Reducing airway inflammation

Corticosteroids reduce airway inflammation and swelling, which is the primary cause of asthma symptoms. They are effective in preventing asthma attacks when used regularly.

15.14 The most common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids is:

A. Oral thrush
B. Tachycardia
C. Nausea
D. Insomnia

Correct Answer: A - Oral thrush

Oral thrush is a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids due to the immunosuppressive effects on the oral mucosa. Rinsing the mouth after use can help minimize this risk.

15.15 Which of the following drugs is a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA)?

A. Salmeterol
B. Albuterol
C. Ipratropium
D. Beclometasone

Correct Answer: A - Salmeterol

Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) that provides bronchodilation over a prolonged period, making it useful for the maintenance treatment of asthma and COPD. It should be used in combination with corticosteroids for better asthma control.

15.16 The main advantage of using combination inhalers (e.g., LABA + corticosteroid) in asthma treatment is:

A. Better bronchodilation
B. Reduced risk of side effects
C. Improved patient compliance
D. Both B and C are correct

Correct Answer: D - Both B and C are correct

Combination inhalers that combine a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) with a corticosteroid provide better symptom control and improve patient compliance by reducing the number of inhalers they need to use.

15.17 Which of the following is used as a rescue medication during an asthma attack?

A. Ipratropium
B. Fluticasone
C. Salbutamol
D. Montelukast

Correct Answer: C - Salbutamol

Salbutamol is a short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) used as a rescue inhaler to provide rapid bronchodilation during an asthma attack. It is effective in quickly relieving symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.

15.18 Theophylline is used as a bronchodilator for asthma because it:

A. Increases cAMP levels
B. Inhibits phosphodiesterase
C. Both A and B are correct
D. Blocks histamine receptors

Correct Answer: C - Both A and B are correct

Theophylline works by increasing cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, which in turn inhibits phosphodiesterase, leading to smooth muscle relaxation and bronchodilation in the airways.

15.19 Which of the following is not a typical side effect of bronchodilators like salbutamol?

A. Tachycardia
B. Tremors
C. Hypoglycemia
D. Headache

Correct Answer: C - Hypoglycemia

Bronchodilators like salbutamol commonly cause side effects such as tachycardia, tremors, and headaches, but hypoglycemia is not a typical side effect. However, caution is needed when using these drugs in patients with diabetes.

15.20 The main mechanism of action of atropine in treating COPD is:

A. Beta-2 receptor antagonism
B. Inhibition of muscarinic receptors
C. Blocking histamine release
D. Reducing airway inflammation

Correct Answer: B - Inhibition of muscarinic receptors

Atropine is an anticholinergic drug that inhibits muscarinic receptors in the airways, leading to bronchodilation. This action helps reduce bronchospasm and improve airflow in patients with COPD.

15.21 Which of the following is a characteristic feature of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

A. Progressive airway inflammation
B. Hyperresponsiveness of airways
C. Severe reversible airflow obstruction
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: A - Progressive airway inflammation

COPD is characterized by progressive airway inflammation and irreversible airflow obstruction. It differs from asthma, where airflow obstruction is usually reversible.

15.22 Which of the following drugs is used to treat acute exacerbations of COPD?

A. Albuterol
B. Prednisolone
C. Ipratropium
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

During an acute exacerbation of COPD, a combination of bronchodilators like albuterol and ipratropium, and corticosteroids like prednisolone, is often used to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation.

15.23 The use of long-term oxygen therapy in COPD patients is indicated when:

A. The oxygen saturation is below 88% at rest
B. The FEV1 is less than 30% of predicted
C. The patient experiences severe dyspnea
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

Long-term oxygen therapy is recommended for COPD patients who have a low oxygen saturation level at rest, a severely reduced forced expiratory volume (FEV1), or significant symptoms like dyspnea.

15.24 Which of the following is a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids in COPD treatment?

A. Oral thrush
B. Tachycardia
C. Hyperglycemia
D. Insomnia

Correct Answer: A - Oral thrush

Oral thrush is a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids due to their immunosuppressive effects on the oral mucosa. Proper inhaler technique and mouth rinsing can help reduce this risk.

15.25 Which of the following is a short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA) used in COPD treatment?

A. Tiotropium
B. Ipratropium
C. Salmeterol
D. Fluticasone

Correct Answer: B - Ipratropium

Ipratropium is a short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA) that helps to relax bronchial smooth muscles and is commonly used in the treatment of acute exacerbations of COPD.

15.26 Which of the following is true about tiotropium in the management of COPD?

A. It is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA)
B. It has a 24-hour duration of action
C. It improves lung function and reduces exacerbations
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

Tiotropium is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) that provides bronchodilation for up to 24 hours. It is used to improve lung function and reduce the frequency of exacerbations in COPD patients.

15.27 In patients with asthma, which of the following is used as a step-up therapy if symptoms remain uncontrolled on inhaled corticosteroids?

A. Leukotriene receptor antagonists
B. Long-acting beta-agonists
C. Combination inhalers
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

Inhaled corticosteroids are typically the first-line therapy for asthma. If symptoms are uncontrolled, step-up therapy with long-acting beta-agonists, leukotriene receptor antagonists, or combination inhalers may be used.

15.28 Which of the following is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in COPD patients?

A. Respiratory infections
B. Cardiovascular diseases
C. Lung cancer
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

Respiratory infections, cardiovascular diseases, and lung cancer are all major causes of morbidity and mortality in COPD patients. The disease exacerbates the risk of these complications.

15.29 Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are typically combined with long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) in the treatment of asthma to:

A. Enhance bronchodilation and reduce inflammation
B. Prevent allergic reactions
C. Improve medication compliance
D. Both A and C are correct

Correct Answer: D - Both A and C are correct

The combination of ICS and LABA provides better asthma control by both reducing inflammation and promoting bronchodilation. Additionally, combining medications helps improve patient compliance.

15.30 Which of the following is the most appropriate treatment for an asthma exacerbation?

A. Short-acting beta-agonist (SABA)
B. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)
C. Long-acting beta-agonist (LABA)
D. Leukotriene receptor antagonist

Correct Answer: A - Short-acting beta-agonist (SABA)

Short-acting beta-agonists like salbutamol are the mainstay treatment for acute asthma exacerbations, as they provide rapid bronchodilation to relieve symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.

15.31 What is the primary mechanism of action of methylxanthines like theophylline in asthma treatment?

A. Inhibition of phosphodiesterase
B. Stimulation of beta-2 receptors
C. Blockade of leukotriene receptors
D. Inhibition of acetylcholinergic pathways

Correct Answer: A - Inhibition of phosphodiesterase

Methylxanthines like theophylline inhibit the enzyme phosphodiesterase, leading to increased levels of cAMP in airway smooth muscle cells, promoting bronchodilation.

15.32 Which of the following medications is used in the prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction?

A. Salbutamol
B. Montelukast
C. Ipratropium
D. Beclometasone

Correct Answer: B - Montelukast

Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that can be used to prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which promote airway constriction.

15.33 Which of the following is a potential side effect of systemic corticosteroid use in asthma management?

A. Weight loss
B. Osteoporosis
C. Hypertension
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

Systemic corticosteroids can have various side effects, including weight gain, osteoporosis, hypertension, and increased susceptibility to infections, particularly with long-term use.

15.34 Which of the following is the first-line treatment for allergic rhinitis?

A. Antihistamines
B. Decongestants
C. Intranasal corticosteroids
D. Leukotriene receptor antagonists

Correct Answer: C - Intranasal corticosteroids

Intranasal corticosteroids are considered the most effective first-line treatment for allergic rhinitis. They help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and alleviate symptoms like congestion and runny nose.

15.35 Which of the following drugs is considered a leukotriene receptor antagonist used in asthma and allergic rhinitis treatment?

A. Loratadine
B. Salmeterol
C. Montelukast
D. Fluticasone

Correct Answer: C - Montelukast

Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that helps reduce inflammation and bronchoconstriction in asthma and improves symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

15.36 What is the primary purpose of a peak flow meter in asthma management?

A. To measure the oxygen saturation level
B. To measure the forced expiratory volume (FEV1)
C. To assess lung inflation
D. To measure the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR)

Correct Answer: D - To measure the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR)

A peak flow meter is used to measure the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), which helps monitor the severity of asthma and assess how well the airways are functioning.

15.37 Which of the following is a potential risk factor for the development of asthma?

A. Family history of asthma
B. Exposure to environmental allergens
C. Viral respiratory infections in early childhood
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

Asthma risk factors include a family history of asthma, exposure to allergens, and respiratory infections in early childhood, all of which can contribute to the development of the disease.

15.38 Which of the following is a common side effect of beta-2 agonists like albuterol in asthma treatment?

A. Tachycardia
B. Hypoglycemia
C. Diarrhea
D. Hyperkalemia

Correct Answer: A - Tachycardia

Beta-2 agonists like albuterol stimulate beta receptors in the heart, which can cause side effects like tachycardia (rapid heart rate) and jitteriness.

15.39 In patients with allergic rhinitis, which of the following is a common non-pharmacologic treatment?

A. Avoidance of allergens
B. Intranasal saline irrigation
C. Humidification of air
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

Non-pharmacologic treatments for allergic rhinitis include avoiding allergens, using intranasal saline irrigation to clear nasal passages, and maintaining proper humidity to reduce symptoms.

15.40 Which of the following is true about inhaled bronchodilators in asthma treatment?

A. They help open up airways and relieve symptoms quickly
B. They reduce inflammation in the airways
C. They prevent asthma attacks
D. They have no effect on airway smooth muscle

Correct Answer: A - They help open up airways and relieve symptoms quickly

Inhaled bronchodilators, such as beta-agonists, provide rapid relief by relaxing airway smooth muscle and opening up the airways. They are used for quick symptom relief, not for long-term control of asthma.

15.41 Which of the following drugs is an example of a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA)?

A. Albuterol
B. Salmeterol
C. Ipratropium
D. Montelukast

Correct Answer: B - Salmeterol

Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) that provides bronchodilation for up to 12 hours, making it useful for long-term asthma and COPD management.

15.42 What is the mechanism of action of cromolyn sodium in asthma treatment?

A. Bronchodilation
B. Inhibition of mast cell degranulation
C. Reduction of leukotrienes
D. Decrease in airway smooth muscle tone

Correct Answer: B - Inhibition of mast cell degranulation

Cromolyn sodium works by preventing the degranulation of mast cells, thereby inhibiting the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators involved in asthma attacks.

15.43 In patients with asthma, which of the following is a common trigger for exacerbations?

A. Respiratory infections
B. Allergens
C. Exercise
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

Respiratory infections, allergens, and exercise can all trigger asthma exacerbations by causing airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction.

15.44 Which of the following is an effective treatment for acute exacerbations of asthma?

A. Inhaled short-acting beta-agonists (SABA)
B. Oral corticosteroids
C. Oxygen therapy if needed
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: D - All of the above

Treatment for acute asthma exacerbations typically involves the use of short-acting beta-agonists (SABA), corticosteroids, and oxygen therapy as needed to relieve symptoms and stabilize the patient.

15.45 What is a common side effect of leukotriene receptor antagonists like montelukast?

A. Drowsiness
B. Headache
C. Weight gain
D. Muscle cramps

Correct Answer: B - Headache

Headache is a common side effect of leukotriene receptor antagonists like montelukast, though these drugs are generally well-tolerated by patients.

15.46 Which of the following is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) used in COPD treatment?

A. Tiotropium
B. Ipratropium
C. Albuterol
D. Salmeterol

Correct Answer: A - Tiotropium

Tiotropium is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) used in COPD management to reduce bronchoconstriction and improve airflow.

15.47 Which of the following is the primary mechanism of action of inhaled corticosteroids in asthma management?

A. Bronchodilation
B. Inhibition of inflammatory pathways
C. Decrease in mucus production
D. Blockage of mast cell release

Correct Answer: B - Inhibition of inflammatory pathways

Inhaled corticosteroids work by inhibiting inflammatory pathways in the airways, reducing the inflammatory response that causes bronchoconstriction and asthma symptoms.
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