Question 1

Which of the following asthma medications does not include tachycardia as a side effect?&#10;A) Theophylline&#10;B) Ipratropium&#10;C) Albuterol&#10;D) Salmeterol&#10;E) Cromolyn

Accepted Answer

Cromolyn acts to prevent the release of histamine from mast cells. It does not present a risk for tachycardia, unlike the other drugs listed (theophylline is a methylxanthine, ipratropium is an anti-muscarinic, and albuterol and salmeterol are both beta-2 agonists).

Question 2

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by an increase in which of the following types of leukocytes?&#10;A) Neutrophil&#10;B) Basophil&#10;C) Eosinophil&#10;D) Lymphocyte&#10;E) Monocyte

Accepted Answer

COPD is associated with chronic inflammation, especially in the airways. Neutrophils are the primary leukocytes responsible for the innate immune response to inflammation, and their levels are often elevated in patients with COPD.

Question 3

Long-term use of the following medication class is indicated for mild persistent asthma but in COPD is reserved for cases refractory to other chronic treatments:&#10;A) Leukotriene modulator&#10;B) Muscarinic antagonists&#10;C) Beta-2 agonists&#10;D) Glucocorticoids&#10;E) Chromones

Accepted Answer

Inhaled glucocorticoids are indicated in the long-term management of asthma. However, the side effects outweigh benefits in COPD. This is partly due to the fact that COPD is mediated largely by neutrophils, while asthma is mostly eosinophil-mediated. Glucocorticoids increase neutrophil counts.

Deck 16: Drugs to Treat Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease