Multiple Choice Questions Endocrine System Related

Review Multiple Choice Questions Endocrine System related questions and content

Verapamil is a drug used for treating hypertension. It should be used with caution with other drugs that can depress heart rate or contractility. Which drug, if given with verapamil, might therefore cause the greatest risk of depressing heart rate, contractile force, or impulse conduction?

  • A. Albuterol
  • B. Scopolamine
  • C. Propranolol
  • D. Isoproterenol
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Propranolol. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker that can depress heart rate and contractility. Propranolol is a beta-blocker that also decreases heart rate and contractile force. When combined, both drugs can have an additive effect leading to a significant decrease in heart rate and contractility, potentially causing bradycardia or heart failure.

Albuterol (A) is a beta-2 agonist that actually increases heart rate and contractility. Scopolamine (B) is an anticholinergic drug that may decrease heart rate, but its effect is not as significant as propranolol. Isoproterenol (D) is a beta agonist that increases heart rate and contractility, so its combination with verapamil would not pose the same risk as propranolol.