Which statement regarding alpha 1 and alpha 2 receptors is correct?

Choice A Reason:

Boxed warnings, also known as black box warnings, are the strictest warnings put in the labeling of prescription drugs by the FDA when there is reasonable evidence of an association of a serious hazard with the drug. However, they do not necessarily indicate that a drug should only be given in life-threatening circumstances. Instead, they highlight the potential for serious or life-threatening risks and advise on how to use the drug safely.

Choice B Reason:

While some boxed warnings may include information about teratogenic effects (effects that can cause birth defects), this is not their primary purpose. Boxed warnings are broader and can apply to various serious risks, not just teratogenicity. Therefore, this choice is too narrow to be correct.

Choice C Reason:

This is the correct answer. Boxed warnings are designed to alert prescribers to serious or life-threatening risks associated with a drug and provide guidance on how to mitigate these risks. This can include recommendations for monitoring, dosage adjustments, or avoiding certain populations. The goal is to ensure that prescribers are fully aware of the risks and can take appropriate measures to minimize harm to patients.

Choice D Reason:

Boxed warnings do not typically provide information about antidotes for toxicity. While managing toxicity is an important aspect of drug safety, boxed warnings focus on alerting prescribers to serious risks and how to mitigate them, rather than detailing specific antidotes.

Choice A Reason:

Bronchoconstriction is the narrowing of the airways in the lungs due to the tightening of surrounding smooth muscle. This response is typically associated with conditions like asthma and is not a common reaction to acute stress. During stress, the sympathetic nervous system actually causes bronchodilation to increase airflow and oxygen delivery to the muscles.

Choice B Reason:

This is the correct answer. Increased glucose production is a typical response to acute stress. The body releases stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which stimulate the liver to produce more glucose. This process, known as glycogenolysis, ensures that the body has enough energy to handle the stressor. This response is part of the “fight-or-flight” mechanism, preparing the body for immediate physical activity.

Choice C Reason:

Decreased cortisol release is not expected during acute stress. In fact, cortisol levels typically increase as part of the body’s stress response. Cortisol helps to mobilize energy stores, suppress inflammation, and support cardiovascular function. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice D Reason:

Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, is not a typical response to acute stress. Instead, the sympathetic nervous system increases heart rate (tachycardia) to ensure that more blood is pumped to vital organs and muscles. This helps the body to respond more effectively to the stressor.