A nursing student asks a nurse to explain the differences between amphotericin B and the azoles group of antifungal agents. Which statement by the nurse is correct?
Amphotericin B can be given orally or intravenously.
Azoles have lower toxicity than amphotericin B.
Amphotericin B increases the levels of many other drugs.
Only the azoles are broad-spectrum antifungal agents.
The correct answer is: b) Azoles have lower toxicity than amphotericin B.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Amphotericin B is typically administered intravenously because it is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and thus not suitable for oral administration. It is used to treat severe systemic fungal infections and is known for its potential nephrotoxicity and other adverse effects.
Choice B reason: Azoles, such as fluconazole and itraconazole, generally have lower toxicity compared to amphotericin B. They are often used as first-line treatments for many fungal infections due to their safer side effect profile. Azoles work by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes, and are available in both oral and intravenous formulations, making them more versatile in their use.
Choice C reason: While amphotericin B does have some drug interactions, it is not typically known for significantly increasing the levels of many other drugs. Instead, the primary concern with amphotericin B is its potential for nephrotoxicity and other direct adverse effects on the patient.
Choice D reason: Both amphotericin B and azoles are considered broad-spectrum antifungal agents. Amphotericin B is effective against a wide range of fungi, including many that are resistant to other antifungal agents. Azoles are also broad-spectrum and are used to treat a variety of fungal infections, but they generally have a better safety profile than amphotericin B.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The levodopa/carbidopa combination is commonly used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Levodopa is a precursor to dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is deficient in the brains of people with Parkinson's disease. Carbidopa helps prevent the breakdown of levodopa before it reaches the brain, increasing its effectiveness. This combination is widely recognized as an effective treatment for improving motor function in Parkinson's patients. Understanding this combination therapy indicates that the patient is aware of the primary approach to managing their condition.
Choice B reason: While some patients may begin to see improvements in their symptoms within a few days to a week of starting levodopa/carbidopa therapy, it is not guaranteed for all patients. The response to the medication can vary, and some individuals may take longer to notice significant improvements. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations and understand that the treatment response can be individualized.
Choice C reason: While drug therapy can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life in Parkinson's disease, it does not significantly slow the progression of the disease. Parkinson's is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, and current medications primarily aim to alleviate symptoms rather than alter the course of the disease. Thus, this statement indicates a misunderstanding of the primary purpose of the medication.
Choice D reason: The dosing of Parkinson's medications, including levodopa/carbidopa, is typically adjusted based on the patient's response and symptom control. It is not standard practice to reduce the dose after a couple of months automatically. In fact, over time, some patients may require higher doses or additional medications to maintain symptom control. Therefore, this statement reflects a misunderstanding of the typical management of Parkinson's disease.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: There is a 50% chance that the offspring will be affected by the recessive disorder. If the mother is affected (homozygous recessive, aa) and the father is a carrier (heterozygous, Aa), each child has a 50% chance of inheriting the affected gene (a) from both parents, resulting in the child being homozygous recessive (aa) and thus affected by the disorder.
Choice B reason: There is not a 100% chance that the offspring will be affected. While there is a high probability (50%) that the offspring will be affected, it is not certain that all children will inherit the condition.
Choice C reason: There is not a 25% chance that the offspring will be a carrier. In this case, the offspring have a 50% chance of being carriers (heterozygous, Aa) and a 50% chance of being affected (homozygous recessive, aa).
Choice D reason: There is not a 25% chance that the offspring will be affected. The correct probability for being affected is 50%, not 25%.
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