Which of the following inhaled short-acting B-2 agonist products contains Albuterol as the active ingredient?
ProAir HFA
Primatene Mist
Asthmanefrin
Xopenex HFA
Xopenex Concentrate
The Correct Answer is A
Albuterol is a sympathomimetic bronchodilator categorized as a short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA). It selectively stimulates beta-2 receptors in the lungs to induce smooth muscle relaxation via adenylate cyclase activation. This increases intracellular cAMP levels, effectively reversing acute bronchoconstriction in asthma or COPD patients. Side effects commonly include tachycardia, tremors, and palpitations due to transient stimulation of beta-1 and skeletal muscle receptors.
Rationale:
A. ProAir HFA is the correct answer as it is a brand-name formulation of albuterol sulfate. It utilizes a metered-dose inhaler with hydrofluoroalkane propellant to deliver the medication directly to the bronchioles. This product is the gold standard for providing rapid relief of respiratory distress. It is frequently prescribed for exercise-induced bronchospasm and acute asthma exacerbations.
B. Primatene Mist contains epinephrine as the active ingredient, which is a non-selective alpha and beta-adrenergic agonist. While it provides bronchodilation, it lacks the beta-2 selectivity found in albuterol and has a higher risk of systemic cardiovascular stimulation. It is an over-the-counter medication and is not a formulation of albuterol.
C. Asthmanefrin contains racepinephrine, which is a racemic mixture of epinephrine. It is delivered via an atomizer but is not considered a SABA like albuterol due to its non-selective adrenergic profile. It is primarily used for temporary relief of bronchial asthma symptoms but does not contain the specific albuterol molecule.
D. Xopenex HFA contains levalbuterol, which is the (R)-enantiomer of albuterol. While structurally related, it is a purified form that removes the (S)-isomer, which is thought to be clinically inactive or potentially pro-inflammatory. Therefore, while it acts similarly, the active ingredient is levalbuterol, not racemic albuterol, making this choice technically incorrect.
E. Xopenex Concentrate is the nebulized solution form of levalbuterol. Like the HFA version, it specifically provides the single-isomer levalbuterol for inhalation therapy. It is used for patients who cannot effectively use a handheld inhaler or require high-dose therapy in a clinical setting. It does not contain standard racemic albuterol.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Ondansetron hydrochloride is a highly selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting. It works by blocking serotonin receptors both peripherally on vagal nerve terminals and centrally in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ). It is widely utilized in patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Common side effects include headache, constipation, and a potential risk for QT interval prolongation.
Rationale:
A. Gastric antisecretory agents, such as proton pump inhibitors or H2-receptor antagonists, decrease the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. While ondansetron is used for gastrointestinal comfort, it does not alter gastric pH or acid secretion levels. Its mechanism is strictly neurological and sensory rather than a direct effect on parietal cell secretion.
B. Antiemetic is the correct therapeutic class because ondansetron's primary clinical indication is the suppression of the emetic reflex. By inhibiting the 5-HT3 receptors that trigger nausea, it effectively manages vomiting associated with various medical treatments. It is categorized as a second-generation antiemetic with a favorable safety profile compared to older dopamine antagonists.
C. Anticonvulsants are medications used to stabilize neuronal membranes and prevent seizure activity in the brain. Ondansetron has no known effect on sodium channels or GABAergic neurotransmission that would provide anti-epileptic benefits. Therefore, it does not belong to this class and cannot be used to manage neurological seizure disorders.
D. Antihypertensives are drugs designed to lower blood pressure by affecting cardiac output, systemic vascular resistance, or fluid volume. Ondansetron does not possess vasodilatory properties or affect the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. It is not indicated for the management of hypertension and would be ineffective for such a clinical purpose.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Sodium lauryl sulfate is an anionic surfactant utilized in pharmaceutical compounding to lower surface tension between immiscible phases. It is a critical component of Hydrophilic Ointment, USP, which is an oil-in-water (o/w) emulsion. By stabilizing the interface between white petrolatum and purified water, it prevents phase separation and ensures a homogeneous preparation suitable for topical drug delivery.
Rationale:
A. A solvent is a substance, typically liquid, used to dissolve a solute to create a solution. While purified water and propylene glycol serve as the aqueous solvent system in this formula, SLS does not function to dissolve the solids. Its role is focused on interfacial stabilization rather than simple dissolution.
B. The oleaginous phase of this ointment consists of white petrolatum and stearyl alcohol, which provide the emollient properties and greasy consistency. Sodium lauryl sulfate is an amphiphilic molecule that interacts with this phase but does not constitute the bulk oily base. Its concentration is too low to be a primary vehicle.
C. Emulsifying agent is the correct function because SLS acts as a surfactant that facilitates the formation of an emulsion. It contains a hydrophilic head and a hydrophobic tail, allowing it to bridge the gap between the water and oil phases. This prevents the coalescence of droplets, ensuring the ointment remains stable over time.
D. Antimicrobial preservatives like methylparaben and propylparaben are included in the formula to inhibit microbial growth in the water-containing base. While SLS has some minor antibacterial properties, it is not included in the USP formula for preservative efficacy. Its primary mechanical utility is purely as a stabilizer for the emulsion.
E. Viscosity-enhancing agents are used to increase the thickness or "body" of a topical preparation. In this specific formula, stearyl alcohol primarily serves this structural purpose by providing stiffness to the ointment. SLS is used in a 10 g quantity, which is insufficient to significantly alter the overall viscosity of the 1,000 g batch.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.