Pharmacology II Quiz 3

Explanation
Cyproheptadine is recommended for therapy in cases of severe symptoms of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by an excess of serotonin in the body. Cyproheptadine is an antihistamine that also has serotonin antagonist properties, meaning it can block the effects of serotonin. By blocking serotonin, cyproheptadine can help alleviate the symptoms of serotonin syndrome and provide relief to the patient. Therefore, cyproheptadine is the correct choice for therapy in this situation.

Explanation
Diaphoresis (sweating) not anhidrosis (lack of sweating) is associated with serotonin syndrome.

Explanation
Not an idiosyncratic drug reaction.

Explanation
When fentanyl and citalopram interact, they can cause serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially life-threatening condition. Serotonin syndrome occurs when there is an excessive accumulation of serotonin in the brain. This interaction is classified as a pharmacodynamic interaction because it involves the effects of the drugs on the body's response, rather than a pharmacokinetic interaction which involves the drugs' absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Therefore, the given answer that this interaction is a pharmacodynamic interaction is correct.

Explanation
Meperidine is a medication that belongs to the class of opioids. It is known to have dual effects on serotonin. Firstly, it blocks the reuptake of serotonin, leading to increased levels of serotonin in the synaptic cleft. Secondly, it potentiates the firing of serotonergic neurons, which means it enhances the activity of these neurons. Therefore, the statement that meperidine blocks both serotonin reuptake and potentiates the firing of serotonergic neurons is true.

Explanation
St. John's Wort not safe with either.

Explanation
These are receptors on the post synaptic terminal.

Explanation
Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by an excess of serotonin in the body. It can occur when certain medications, such as antidepressants, are taken in combination or at high doses. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, dilated pupils, and muscle rigidity. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, organ failure, and even death. Therefore, the statement "Serotonin syndrome is not fatal" is incorrect.

Explanation
It is not a good choice to recommend an anti-cholinergic to treat the symptoms of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is caused by an excess of serotonin in the brain, and anti-cholinergic medications work by blocking the effects of acetylcholine, a different neurotransmitter. Therefore, anti-cholinergics would not be effective in treating serotonin syndrome and may even worsen the symptoms.

Explanation
Hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, myoclonus, twitching, and tremor are indeed symptoms of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by an excess of serotonin in the brain. It can occur when certain medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are taken in combination or at high doses. These symptoms are indicative of the overstimulation of serotonin receptors in the central nervous system, leading to increased muscle activity and elevated body temperature. Prompt medical attention is necessary if serotonin syndrome is suspected.