PTCB 3, Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam

Angela, a 42-year-old woman with major depressive disorder, has discussed medication options with her psychiatrist and is considering an antidepressant that also has anxiolytic properties. Which of the following medications is Angela most likely to be prescribed?
A. Escitalopram B. Prednisone C. Atenolol D. Acetaminophen E. Ciprofloxacin

Rationale: This drug is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder due to its effectiveness in improving symptoms of depression and anxiety. Unlike corticosteroids, beta-blockers, analgesics, or antibiotics, escitalopram specifically targets the neurotransmitter serotonin to increase its availability in the brain, which can help improve mood and anxiety symptoms. Pharmacy technicians should understand the indications and benefits of SSRIs like escitalopram to provide accurate information to patients about potential side effects and the importance of adherence to therapy.

DEPRESSION, nclex, aanp, ancc, guestions and answers, qbank, psychiatry

Question 12: Seizure Management

Derek, a 30-year-old man with epilepsy, needs medication to control his seizures. His neurologist is considering a medication that can be used both as monotherapy and as an adjunct to other seizure medications. Which of the following medications is Derek most likely to be prescribed?
A. Metformin B. Furosemide C. Simvastatin D. Omeprazole  E. Levetiracetam

Rationale: This drug is an antiepileptic drug commonly used in the management of epilepsy for both monotherapy and adjunctive therapy. It is known for its broad spectrum of action against various types of seizures and a favorable side effect profile. Unlike diuretics, statins, proton pump inhibitors, or antidiabetic medications, levetiracetam specifically targets the neuronal transmission processes to prevent seizures. Pharmacy technicians should be aware of levetiracetam’s role in epilepsy management to assist in the accurate dispensing of medication and to counsel patients on adherence and monitoring for potential side effects.

Question 13: Antibiotic Stewardship

Maria, a 25-year-old woman with a confirmed bacterial urinary tract infection (UTI), is in need of an antibiotic that is commonly used for UTIs and has a relatively low resistance rate. Which of the following medications is Maria most likely to be prescribed?
A. Nitrofurantoin B. Ibuprofen C. Levothyroxine D. Fluconazole E. Gabapentin

Rationale: This drug is an antibiotic that is specifically used for the treatment of urinary tract infections and is preferred due to its efficacy and lower risk of developing antibiotic resistance. Unlike NSAIDs, thyroid hormone replacements, antifungals, or medications for neuropathic pain, nitrofurantoin acts directly on the bacteria causing the UTI. Pharmacy technicians must recognize the importance of antibiotic stewardship and the specific indications of antibiotics like nitrofurantoin to ensure they are dispensed appropriately and patients are counseled on the importance of completing the full course of treatment.

Medical Surgical Nursing Questions, Urinary tract infection, UTI, NCLEX, ANCC AANP
Symptoms of UTI include dysuria, urinary frequency, urgency, and suprapubic pain.

Question 14: Pain Management in Chronic Conditions

Trevor, a 55-year-old man with chronic back pain due to degenerative disc disease, is seeking medication that can provide pain relief and has minimal gastrointestinal side effects. Which of the following medications is Trevor most likely to be prescribed?
A. Escitalopram B. Amoxicillin C. Metformin D. Celecoxib E. Prednisone

Rationale: This drug is a COX-2 selective inhibitor, a type of NSAID that is designed to provide pain relief with fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional NSAIDs. It is particularly suitable for patients like Trevor, who require long-term pain management for conditions such as degenerative disc disease. Unlike antibiotics, antidiabetics, antidepressants, or corticosteroids, celecoxib specifically targets the pain and inflammation pathways with a reduced risk of causing gastric ulcers. Pharmacy technicians should be familiar with the benefits and considerations of using COX-2 inhibitors to manage chronic pain conditions and provide appropriate counseling on their use.

Question 15: Antipsychotic Medication for Bipolar Disorder

Sophia, a 39-year-old woman diagnosed with bipolar disorder, is being prescribed medication to help manage her mood swings. Her psychiatrist wants to prescribe an antipsychotic that is effective in both manic and depressive phases. Which of the following medications is Sophia most likely to be prescribed?
A. Quetiapine B. Lisinopril C. Acetaminophen D. Atorvastatin E. Cephalexin

Rationale: This drug is an atypical antipsychotic that is widely used in the treatment of bipolar disorder for its efficacy in managing both manic and depressive episodes. Unlike antihypertensives, analgesics, statins, or antibiotics, quetiapine works by modulating neurotransmitters in the brain to stabilize mood. It’s important for pharmacy technicians to understand the role of atypical antipsychotics in the treatment of bipolar disorder to ensure accurate medication dispensing and to provide supportive patient counseling on adherence and monitoring for side effects.

Question 16: Management of Allergic Rhinitis

Elena, a 28-year-old woman, experiences seasonal allergic rhinitis with symptoms such as sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, and a runny nose. She seeks a medication that can alleviate these symptoms. Which of the following medications is Elena most likely to be prescribed?
A. Loratadine B. Gabapentin C. Warfarin D. Metformin E. Amoxicillin

Rationale: This drug is a second-generation antihistamine that is commonly prescribed for the relief of symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis and urticaria (hives). Unlike antiepileptics, anticoagulants, antidiabetics, or antibiotics, loratadine specifically targets the histamine-1 receptor, reducing allergic symptoms without causing significant sedation. Pharmacy technicians must be aware of the indications for antihistamines like loratadine to assist in the accurate dispensing of medication and provide counseling on its non-drowsy nature and how it can be used to effectively manage allergies.

Question 17: Osteoporosis Prevention

Grace, a 65-year-old woman with a family history of osteoporosis, has been recommended to start a medication to strengthen her bones and prevent fractures. Which of the following medications is Grace most likely to be prescribed?
A. Levetiracetam B. Alendronate  C. Ibuprofen D. Lisinopril E. Fluconazole

Rationale: This drug is a bisphosphonate that is commonly prescribed to prevent and treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and others at risk of fractures. It works by inhibiting bone resorption, thereby increasing bone density and strength. Unlike antiepileptics, NSAIDs, antihypertensives, or antifungals, alendronate directly affects bone metabolism. Pharmacy technicians should understand the role of bisphosphonates like alendronate in managing osteoporosis to ensure patients receive proper counseling on administration instructions, such as taking the medication with water and remaining upright for 30 minutes to prevent esophageal irritation.

Question 18: ADHD Management

Max, a 10-year-old boy, has been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and his pediatrician is prescribing medication to help improve his focus and behavior in school. Which of the following medications is Max most likely to be prescribed?
A. Methylphenidate B. Ciprofloxacin C. Omeprazole D. Atorvastatin E. Prednisone

Rationale: This drug is a central nervous system stimulant commonly prescribed for the treatment of ADHD. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help improve attention, focus, and behavior. Unlike antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, statins, or corticosteroids, methylphenidate specifically targets the symptoms of ADHD. Pharmacy technicians must be knowledgeable about ADHD medications to accurately dispense prescriptions and provide counseling on potential side effects, such as appetite suppression and sleep disturbances, as well as the importance of adhering to prescribed dosages.

Question 19: Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV

David, a 32-year-old man diagnosed with HIV, is starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) as recommended by his infectious disease specialist. Which of the following medication classes is David most likely to be prescribed as part of his ART regimen?
A. ACE inhibitors B. Calcium channel blockers  C. Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) D. Corticosteroids E. Bisphosphonates

Rationale: Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) are a class of antiretroviral medications used in the treatment of HIV. NNRTIs work by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is crucial for the replication of the virus. Unlike medications used for hypertension, inflammation, or bone health, NNRTIs specifically target the life cycle of HIV to reduce viral load and improve immune function. Pharmacy technicians should be familiar with the components of ART regimens to assist in managing these complex therapies and provide support and education to patients on adherence and the management of potential side effects.

Question 20: Management of Chronic Heart Failure

Sophie, a 76-year-old woman with chronic heart failure, is being prescribed medication to improve her heart function and reduce hospitalizations. Which of the following medications is Sophie most likely to be prescribed?
A. Furosemide B. Gabapentin C. Escitalopram D. Alendronate E. Amoxicillin

Rationale: This drug is a loop diuretic commonly prescribed for the management of symptoms in patients with heart failure. It works by removing excess fluid from the body, which can help reduce the workload on the heart and improve symptoms such as shortness of breath and swelling. Unlike medications for neuropathic pain, depression, osteoporosis, or bacterial infections, furosemide is specifically indicated for conditions involving fluid overload. Pharmacy technicians should be adept at recognizing the indications for diuretics like furosemide to provide proper medication management and patient counseling on potential side effects, such as electrolyte imbalances and the need for regular monitoring.

Question 21: Treatment for Acute Migraine Attacks

Janet, a 43-year-old woman, frequently experiences severe migraine attacks and is looking for a medication that can be used to manage acute symptoms. Which of the following medications is Janet most likely to be prescribed?
A. Lisinopril B. Metformin C. Sumatriptan  D. Simvastatin E. Prednisone

Rationale: This drug is a selective serotonin receptor agonist used in the treatment of acute migraine attacks. It works by constricting blood vessels in the brain, which can help relieve migraine symptoms. Unlike medications used for diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol management, or inflammation, sumatriptan specifically targets the pathophysiological changes associated with migraines. Pharmacy technicians should be familiar with the indications and administration guidelines for acute migraine treatments like sumatriptan to ensure patients receive effective relief and understand how to use these medications safely.

Question 22: Preventing Blood Clots in Patients with Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Carlos, a 55-year-old man with a recent diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is prescribed a medication to prevent the formation of new clots and reduce the risk of a pulmonary embolism. Which of the following medications is Carlos most likely to be prescribed?
A. Rivaroxaban B. Gabapentin C. Omeprazole D. Escitalopram E. Alendronate

Rationale: This drug is an oral anticoagulant that belongs to the class of direct Factor Xa inhibitors. It is commonly prescribed for the treatment and prevention of DVT and pulmonary embolism by inhibiting a key factor in the blood coagulation process, reducing the risk of clot formation. Unlike medications for neuropathic pain, acid reflux, depression, or osteoporosis, rivaroxaban specifically targets coagulation pathways. Pharmacy technicians should understand the significance of direct oral anticoagulants like rivaroxaban in managing conditions such as DVT to assist in patient counseling regarding the importance of adherence and monitoring for signs of bleeding.

Question 23: Managing Chronic Insomnia

Tina, a 38-year-old woman struggling with chronic insomnia, seeks a prescription medication that can help improve her sleep quality. Which of the following medications is Tina most likely to be prescribed?
A. Furosemide B. Metformin C. Zolpidem D. Levothyroxine E. Ibuprofen

Rationale: This drug is a sedative-hypnotic medication specifically indicated for the short-term treatment of insomnia, characterized by difficulties with sleep initiation. Unlike medications used for diabetes, fluid retention, thyroid disorders, or inflammation, zolpidem acts on the brain’s neurotransmitter system to induce sleepiness. Pharmacy technicians must be aware of the proper use and potential risks of sedative-hypnotics like zolpidem, including the importance of limiting use to short durations to avoid dependence and advising patients on safety measures to prevent impaired alertness.

Question 24: Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes with a Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Kevin, a 60-year-old man with type 2 diabetes and a history of cardiovascular disease, needs a medication that can manage his diabetes and potentially reduce his cardiovascular risk. Which of the following medications is Kevin most likely to be prescribed?
A. Empagliflozin B. Amitriptyline C. Prednisone D. Ciprofloxacin E. Sumatriptan

Rationale: This drug is an SGLT2 inhibitor that not only helps control blood sugar levels by promoting the excretion of glucose through the urine but also has been shown to offer cardiovascular benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes and an increased risk of heart disease. Unlike medications for depression, inflammation, bacterial infections, or migraine, empagliflozin addresses both glycemic control and cardiovascular risk reduction. Pharmacy technicians should understand the dual benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors like empagliflozin to assist in comprehensive patient counseling, including the importance of monitoring for signs of dehydration and genital infections.

Question 25: Prophylaxis of Asthma Symptoms

Mia, a 7-year-old girl diagnosed with asthma, requires a long-term control medication to prevent asthma attacks and reduce inflammation in the airways. Which of the following medications is Mia most likely to be prescribed?
A. Fluticasone (inhaled corticosteroid) B. Albuterol C. Ranitidine D. Fluconazole E. Warfarin

Rationale: Fluticasone is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) that serves as a cornerstone in the long-term management of asthma by reducing airway inflammation and preventing asthma symptoms. Unlike short-acting beta-agonists like albuterol (used for quick relief), antacids, antifungals, or anticoagulants, inhaled corticosteroids are used daily to achieve and maintain control of chronic asthma. Pharmacy technicians must recognize the role of ICS in asthma management to ensure proper dispensing practices and to educate patients and caregivers on correct inhaler technique and the importance of adherence to prevent asthma exacerbations.

Question 26: Management of Bipolar Disorder

Nathan, a 29-year-old man with bipolar disorder, is seeking a medication to help stabilize his mood swings between mania and depression. Which of the following medications is Nathan most likely to be prescribed?
A. Furosemide B. Acetaminophen C. Atorvastatin D. Amoxicillin E. Lithium

Rationale: This drug is a mood stabilizer that is commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. It helps to reduce the severity and frequency of mania and can prevent or attenuate depressive episodes. Unlike pain relievers, statins, antibiotics, or diuretics, lithium specifically targets mood regulation in the brain. Pharmacy technicians should understand the critical role of lithium in managing bipolar disorder, including the importance of monitoring blood levels to ensure therapeutic effectiveness and minimize toxicity.

Question 27: Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting in Chemotherapy

Sandra, a 54-year-old woman undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer, experiences severe nausea and vomiting post-treatment. Which of the following medications is Sandra most likely to be prescribed for prevention of these side effects?
A. Prednisone B. Metformin C. Lisinopril D. Simvastatin E. Ondansetron

Rationale: This drug is a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist commonly prescribed to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Unlike medications for diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, or inflammation, ondansetron specifically targets receptors involved in the vomiting reflex. Pharmacy technicians must be aware of the use of antiemetics like ondansetron in oncology to ensure accurate dispensing and patient counseling on timing and dosing to maximize effectiveness and minimize discomfort.

Question 28: Treatment for Overactive Bladder

Laura, a 62-year-old woman with symptoms of an overactive bladder, including urgency and frequency, seeks medication to manage her condition. Which of the following medications is Laura most likely to be prescribed?
A. Tolterodine B. Gabapentin C. Warfarin D. Escitalopram E. Alendronate

Rationale: This drug is an antimuscarinic medication that is used to treat symptoms of an overactive bladder, such as urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence. Unlike medications for neuropathic pain, blood clot prevention, depression, or osteoporosis, tolterodine specifically targets the bladder’s muscarinic receptors to reduce involuntary contractions. Pharmacy technicians should recognize the importance of antimuscarinic medications in managing overactive bladder symptoms to provide effective patient counseling on potential side effects, such as dry mouth and constipation, and the importance of adherence.

Question 29: Prophylaxis Against Malaria

Emily, a 35-year-old woman, is planning a trip to a region with a high risk of malaria. She seeks a prophylactic medication to reduce her risk of contracting the disease. Which of the following medications is Emily most likely to be prescribed? A. Atovaquone-Proguanil B. Levothyroxine C. Metformin D. Ibuprofen E. Ciprofloxacin

Rationale: This drug is an antimalarial medication recommended for the prophylaxis and treatment of Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Unlike medications for thyroid disorders, diabetes, inflammation, or bacterial infections, atovaquone-proguanil specifically targets the life cycle of malaria parasites to prevent infection. Pharmacy technicians must be familiar with the recommendations for malaria prophylaxis to assist travelers like Emily in preparing for safe travel, including counseling on the importance of completing the full course of medication and taking additional preventive measures against mosquito bites.

Question 30: Enhancing Cognition in Alzheimer’s Disease

George, a 78-year-old man with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, is prescribed a medication to help slow cognitive decline and improve function. Which of the following medications is George most likely to be prescribed?
A. Furosemide B. Prednisone C. Atorvastatin D. Amoxicillin  E. Donepezil

Rationale: This drug is a cholinesterase inhibitor used in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. It works by increasing the concentration of acetylcholine in the brain, which can help to improve cognitive function and memory in some patients. Unlike medications for inflammation, cholesterol management, bacterial infections, or fluid retention, donepezil specifically targets the neurodegenerative processes of Alzheimer’s disease. Pharmacy technicians should understand the use of cholinesterase inhibitors like donepezil to provide information on their potential benefits and side effects, including nausea and diarrhea, and the importance of adherence to therapy.

Question 32: Prevention of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

Susan, a 60-year-old woman who recently entered menopause, is concerned about the risk of osteoporosis. Her doctor recommends a medication to help prevent bone loss. Which of the following medications is Susan most likely to be prescribed? A. Raloxifene B. Albuterol C. Lisinopril D. Metformin E. Fluconazole

Rationale: This drug is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that is used to prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It mimics the bone-protective effects of estrogen without some of the risks associated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Unlike medications for asthma, hypertension, diabetes, or fungal infections, raloxifene specifically targets bone turnover processes to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Pharmacy technicians should be knowledgeable about the role of SERMs like raloxifene in managing postmenopausal osteoporosis, including counseling on its benefits and potential side effects such as hot flashes and risk of venous thromboembolism.

Question 33: Treating Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Adults

Emma, a 32-year-old woman diagnosed with ADHD, discusses medication options with her doctor to improve her concentration and reduce hyperactivity. Which of the following medications is Emma most likely to be prescribed?
A. Ciprofloxacin B. Atomoxetine C. Prednisone D. Ranitidine E. Simvastatin

Rationale: This drug is a non-stimulant medication approved for the treatment of ADHD in both children and adults. It works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter involved in attention and impulse control. Unlike antibiotics, corticosteroids, antacids, or cholesterol-lowering medications, atomoxetine specifically addresses the symptoms of ADHD. Pharmacy technicians should be familiar with ADHD treatments, including non-stimulant options like atomoxetine, to assist in the dispensing process and provide patient education on the medication’s profile, including its gradual onset of action and potential side effects like dry mouth or sleep disturbances.

Question 34: Reducing the Risk of Stroke in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation

Harold, a 75-year-old man with atrial fibrillation, is at increased risk for stroke. His cardiologist prescribes a medication to reduce this risk. Which of the following medications is Harold most likely to be prescribed?
A. Apixaban B. Gabapentin C. Omeprazole D. Escitalopram E. Alendronate

Rationale: This drug is an oral anticoagulant that belongs to the class of direct Factor Xa inhibitors. It is specifically indicated for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Unlike medications for neuropathic pain, acid reflux, depression, or osteoporosis, apixaban directly targets the coagulation cascade to reduce the risk of clot formation. Pharmacy technicians must understand the use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like apixaban in patients with atrial fibrillation, including the importance of adherence and monitoring for signs of bleeding.

Question 35: Managing Severe Asthma Exacerbations

Lucy, a 14-year-old with severe asthma, experiences frequent exacerbations requiring emergency care. Her pulmonologist decides to prescribe a medication to better manage these exacerbations. Which of the following medications is Lucy most likely to be prescribed?
A. Lisinopril B. Oral corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone) C. Metformin D. Fluconazole E. Warfarin

Rationale: These drugs are commonly prescribed for the short-term management of severe asthma exacerbations to quickly reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing. Unlike medications for hypertension, diabetes, fungal infections, or anticoagulation, oral corticosteroids specifically address the inflammatory component of asthma. Pharmacy technicians should be aware of the role of corticosteroids in managing acute asthma attacks and the importance of patient education on adherence to the prescribed course, potential side effects, and the need for gradual tapering to avoid adrenal insufficiency.

Question 36: Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C Infection

Marco, a 52-year-old man, has been diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C. His hepatologist plans to start treatment to reduce the viral load and prevent liver damage. Which of the following medications is Marco most likely to be prescribed?
A. Acetaminophen B. Ledipasvir/Sofosbuvir C. Calcium Carbonate D. Lisinopril E. Simvastatin

Rationale: This drug is a combination antiviral medication used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It works by inhibiting the virus’s ability to replicate, thereby reducing viral load and preventing liver damage. Unlike pain relievers, dietary supplements, antihypertensives, or cholesterol-lowering medications, this combination directly targets HCV. Pharmacy technicians should understand the significance of antiviral therapies in managing hepatitis C, including the importance of adherence to the treatment regimen and potential drug interactions.

Question 37: Prophylactic Treatment for Migraine

Anna, a 40-year-old woman, suffers from frequent migraine attacks and is seeking a medication for prophylactic treatment to reduce the frequency of her migraines. Which of the following medications is Anna most likely to be prescribed? A. Propranolol B. Albuterol C. Omeprazole D. Amoxicillin E. Furosemide

Rationale: This drug is a beta-blocker that is commonly used off-label for the prophylactic treatment of migraines. It helps to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Unlike medications for asthma, acid reflux, bacterial infections, or fluid retention, propranolol can affect blood flow and neural activity related to migraine pathophysiology. Pharmacy technicians should be aware of the use of beta-blockers like propranolol in migraine prophylaxis to assist in patient counseling, including discussing potential side effects and the importance of regular follow-up with healthcare providers.

Question 38: Postoperative Pain Management

Following knee surgery, Jackson, a 25-year-old athlete, requires effective pain management during his recovery. Which of the following medications is Jackson most likely to be prescribed for short-term pain management?
A. Oxycodone B. Metformin C. Amlodipine D. Cetirizine E. Levothyroxine

Rationale: This drug is an opioid analgesic commonly prescribed for the management of moderate to severe acute pain, such as that experienced postoperatively. Unlike medications for diabetes, hypertension, allergies, or thyroid disorders, oxycodone directly targets pain perception pathways in the brain. Pharmacy technicians must be vigilant in handling opioid prescriptions due to the risk of addiction and abuse, including counseling patients on safe use, potential side effects, and the importance of following a prescribed regimen for pain management.

Question 39: Prevention of Peptic Ulcers in NSAID Users

Claire, a 68-year-old woman with arthritis, regularly uses NSAIDs for pain relief but is at risk for developing peptic ulcers. Her doctor recommends an additional medication to protect her stomach. Which of the following medications is Claire most likely to be prescribed?
A. Warfarin B. Gabapentin C. Pantoprazole D. Azithromycin E. Metoprolol

Rationale: This drug is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid production, thereby helping to prevent the formation of peptic ulcers in patients who regularly use NSAIDs. Unlike medications for neuropathic pain, anticoagulation, bacterial infections, or hypertension, PPIs like pantoprazole are specifically designed to protect the gastrointestinal tract. Pharmacy technicians should recognize the role of PPIs in managing the gastrointestinal side effects of NSAIDs to provide effective patient counseling on the correct use of these medications, including timing of doses and potential interactions.

Question 40: Management of Postmenopausal Symptoms

Linda, a 55-year-old woman, is experiencing severe hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. Her healthcare provider discusses hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a treatment option. Which of the following medications is Linda most likely to be prescribed? A. Insulin B. Estradiol C. Phenylephrine D. Isoniazid E. Potassium Chloride

Rationale: Estradiol is a form of estrogen used in hormone replacement therapy to alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Unlike medications for diabetes, nasal congestion, tuberculosis, or electrolyte imbalances, estradiol directly addresses estrogen deficiency in postmenopausal women. Pharmacy technicians must be knowledgeable about HRT options like estradiol to assist in dispensing these medications accurately and to provide patient education on the benefits, risks, and importance of adherence to therapy for symptom management.

Question 41: Managing Neuropathic Pain in Diabetic Patients

Kevin, a 58-year-old man with diabetes, experiences painful diabetic neuropathy in his feet. His endocrinologist wants to add a medication specifically to address this pain. Which of the following medications is Kevin most likely to be prescribed?
A. Pregabalin
B. Alendronate
C. Losartan
D. Amoxicillin
E. Salmeterol

Rationale: This drug is an anticonvulsant that is also used to treat neuropathic pain, including that associated with diabetic neuropathy. It works by decreasing the number of pain signals sent out by damaged nerves in the body. Unlike medications for osteoporosis, hypertension, bacterial infections, or asthma, pregabalin is specifically indicated for neuropathic pain. Pharmacy technicians should be aware of its use in diabetic patients to provide counseling on potential side effects such as dizziness and somnolence, and the importance of dose adjustment based on renal function.

Question 42: Reducing Exacerbations in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Maria, a 67-year-old woman with COPD, has had several exacerbations requiring hospitalization in the past year. Her pulmonologist decides to prescribe a medication to help reduce the frequency of these exacerbations. Which of the following medications is Maria most likely to be prescribed?
A. Nitroglycerin
B. Fluoxetine
C. Hydrochlorothiazide
D. Tiotropium
E. Methotrexate

Rationale: This drug is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) used as a maintenance treatment for COPD to help open up the airways and reduce the risk of exacerbations. Unlike antidepressants, diuretics, vasodilators, or immunosuppressants, tiotropium specifically targets the muscarinic receptors in the airways to improve breathing. Pharmacy technicians should recognize the role of LAMAs in COPD management and provide counseling on the correct use of inhalation devices, the importance of daily use for chronic management, and potential side effects like dry mouth.