0.5 mg =____mcg (Fill in the blank with the numerical value only)

A. Avoid caffeine while taking this medication: Theophylline is a methylxanthine, similar in structure and effect to caffeine. Concurrent use can increase CNS stimulation and risk of side effects such as insomnia, tachycardia, and tremors. Avoiding caffeine helps prevent toxicity and unwanted stimulation.
B. Crush your extended-release tablet and mix it with apple sauce for easier consumption: Extended-release formulations should never be crushed, as this can lead to rapid absorption and potentially toxic drug levels. Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic index, and proper dosing is critical.
C. Take this medication as needed when you are not feeling well: Theophylline is a maintenance medication meant to be taken on a regular schedule. Taking it only as needed undermines its therapeutic effectiveness and can lead to inconsistent symptom control.
D. Consume a high-protein diet: While diet can influence drug metabolism, there is no routine recommendation for a high-protein diet with Theophylline. In fact, sudden dietary changes can alter its metabolism, requiring careful monitoring of serum drug levels.

A. "Barbiturates carry a higher risk of dependence and overdose compared to other sedative-hypnotics.": Barbiturates have a narrow therapeutic index, and overdose can lead to fatal respiratory depression. Their high abuse potential and severe withdrawal symptoms make them less favorable than safer alternatives like benzodiazepines.
B. "Barbiturates are more expensive than newer medications like benzodiazepines, which limits their use.": Cost is not the primary reason for their reduced use. In fact, many barbiturates are inexpensive. Their safety profile and high risk of fatal overdose are the major concerns.
C. "Barbiturates have been replaced because they are less effective than over-the-counter sleep aids.": Barbiturates are actually very potent sedative-hypnotics. However, their risks outweigh their benefits. OTC sleep aids are less effective but considered safer for short-term use.
D. "Barbiturates are safer for long-term use compared to other sedatives, but they have limited availability.": Barbiturates are not safer for long-term use. They are associated with tolerance, dependence, cognitive impairment, and severe withdrawal, which is why their use has been largely replaced.