Endocrine System Exam Questions Related

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Neostigmine is a drug useful in the treatment of myasthenia gravis, but it causes parasympathomimetic effects unless another drug is given first. This drug is:

  • A. Atropine
  • B. Epinephrine
  • C. Isoproterenol
  • D. Edrophonium
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Atropine. Neostigmine is a cholinesterase inhibitor that increases acetylcholine levels leading to parasympathomimetic effects. Atropine, an anticholinergic drug, blocks the effects of acetylcholine, preventing excessive stimulation of cholinergic receptors. Administering atropine before neostigmine helps counteract the parasympathomimetic effects, making it a necessary pre-treatment. Epinephrine and isoproterenol are adrenergic drugs and wouldn't counteract the cholinergic effects of neostigmine. Edrophonium is another cholinesterase inhibitor like neostigmine, so it wouldn't be effective in preventing the parasympathomimetic effects.