Multiple Choice Questions on Endocrine System Related

Review Multiple Choice Questions on Endocrine System related questions and content

A morbidly obese person visits the local bariatric (weight loss) clinic seeking a pill that will help shed weight. The physician prescribes dextroamphetamine. In addition to causing its expected centrally mediated anorexigenic (appetite-suppressant) effects, it causes a host of peripheral adrenergic effects that, for some patients, can prove fatal. The main mechanism by which dextroamphetamine or amphetamines in general, cause their peripheral autonomic effects is

  • A. Activates MAO
  • B. Blocks NE reuptake via the amine pump/transporter
  • C. Displaces, releases, intraneuronal NE
  • D. Enhances NE synthesis, leading to massive neurotransmitter overproduction
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer (C): Dextroamphetamine causes peripheral adrenergic effects by displacing, releasing, intraneuronal NE. Amphetamines disrupt the storage and release of NE from intraneuronal vesicles, leading to an increase in synaptic NE levels. This excess NE can stimulate adrenergic receptors in the periphery, causing adverse effects like hypertension, tachycardia, and potentially fatal outcomes.

Summary of Incorrect Choices:
A: Activating MAO would increase NE breakdown, not cause peripheral adrenergic effects.
B: Blocking NE reuptake would increase NE levels in the synapse, not intraneuronally, leading to central effects.
D: Enhancing NE synthesis would not directly lead to peripheral adrenergic effects, as it would require release and action at the synapse.