Psychopharmacology Practice Questions

Q: A 25-year-old uncooperative patient of schizophrenia was brought in to the casualty. The Casualty Medical Officer gave an injectable drug to the patient. Two hours later patient develops the following posturing. What is the best treatment?

Benzhexol. ***Benzhexol*** - The patient's posturing (likely **acute dystonia**) is a common extrapyramidal side effect of typical antipsychotics, which are often given via injection to uncooperative schizophrenic patients. - **Benzhexol** (trihexyphenidyl) is an anticholinergic medication used to treat drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms like dystonia, parkinsonism, and akathisia. - In acute dystonia, **parenteral anticholinergics** (IV diphenhydramine or IM benztropine) are typically preferred for faster onset, but benzhexol remains a valid anticholinergic treatment option. - The anticholinergic action reverses the dystonic reaction by restoring the dopamine-acetylcholine balance in the basal ganglia. *Propranolol* - **Propranolol** is a beta-blocker primarily used to treat essential tremor and some forms of drug-induced akathisia, but it is not the first-line treatment for acute dystonia. - While it can help with anxiety symptoms associated with akathisia, it has no role in managing acute dystonic reactions. *Dantrolene sodium* - **Dantrolene sodium** is a direct-acting skeletal muscle relaxant primarily used in the management of **neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)** and malignant hyperthermia. - NMS is a more severe and distinct adverse reaction, involving fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction, which is not depicted here. - Acute dystonia presents much earlier (hours) compared to NMS (days to weeks) and lacks the systemic features of NMS. *Ventriculostomy* - **Ventriculostomy** is a neurosurgical procedure to relieve hydrocephalus by draining cerebrospinal fluid from the ventricles of the brain. - This procedure is entirely unrelated to the management of drug-induced extrapyramidal side effects from antipsychotic medication.

Q: Which of the following medications may be used in a child diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder? I. Carbamazepine II. Methylphenidate III. Atomoxetine IV. Clonazepam Select the correct answer using the code given below :

II and III. ***II and III*** - **Methylphenidate** is a first-line **CNS stimulant** that increases dopamine and norepinephrine in the prefrontal cortex, improving attention and reducing hyperactivity/impulsivity - **Atomoxetine** is a **selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)**, FDA-approved as a non-stimulant alternative for ADHD management - Both medications are **evidence-based treatments** for ADHD in children with proven efficacy in controlled trials *I and III* - **Carbamazepine** is an anticonvulsant used for epilepsy and bipolar disorder, **not indicated for ADHD** - While Atomoxetine is correct, pairing it with Carbamazepine makes this option incorrect *I and IV* - **Carbamazepine** has no role in ADHD management - **Clonazepam** is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety and seizures, **contraindicated in ADHD** as it causes sedation and may worsen attention deficits *II and IV* - While Methylphenidate is a core ADHD medication, **Clonazepam is inappropriate** for ADHD treatment - Benzodiazepines can impair cognitive function and exacerbate attention problems in ADHD patients

Q: A 29 year old lady came to psychiatry OPD with symptoms of hypomania. She has a past history of manic episode. Now, she is planning to conceive. Which drug should be avoided for being highly teratogenic to the fetus?

Valproate. ***Valproate*** - **Valproate** is highly **teratogenic** and is associated with multiple birth defects, including **neural tube defects** (e.g., spina bifida), cardiac anomalies, and craniofacial defects. - Due to its significant risks, it is generally **contraindicated** in women of childbearing potential, especially during pregnancy, unless no other suitable alternatives exist. *Oxcarbazepine* - While it has some teratogenic risk (e.g., cleft palate), the risk is generally considered **lower than valproate**. - It is often favored over valproate in pregnant women requiring mood stabilizers, but still requires careful risk-benefit assessment. *Lithium* - **Lithium** is associated with an increased risk of **Ebstein's anomaly**, a specific cardiac defect, if used during the first trimester. - However, the overall risk of major malformations is still **lower than valproate**, and it can be used with careful monitoring if other options are not viable. *Olanzapine* - **Olanzapine** is an **atypical antipsychotic** that can be used as a mood stabilizer and is considered to have a **relatively lower teratogenic risk** compared to anticonvulsants like valproate. - While it's not entirely risk-free (associated with gestational diabetes and fetal growth issues), it's often a safer option in pregnancy for bipolar disorder than valproate.

Q: A patient of schizophrenia is being treated with clozapine. For which rare but serious side effects should he be monitored?

Agranulocytosis. ***Agranulocytosis*** - **Agranulocytosis** is a severe and potentially fatal reduction in white blood cells (specifically neutrophils) that can occur with clozapine use [2, 3]. - This is the **rare but serious side effect** that requires mandatory monitoring, occurring in **0.8-2%** of patients. - Patients on clozapine require routine **complete blood count (CBC)** monitoring: **weekly for the first 6 months**, then biweekly for months 6-12, then monthly thereafter . - This is the primary reason clozapine has restricted use despite being the most effective antipsychotic for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. *Seizures* - While clozapine can lower the **seizure threshold** (especially at higher doses), seizures occur in **1-2%** of patients and are **dose-dependent** . - Seizures are a known side effect that warrants dosage adjustment, but they are **not as rare** as agranulocytosis and do not require the same intensive blood monitoring protocol. - Management involves dose reduction or adding anticonvulsants. *Hepatomegaly* - **Hepatic dysfunction** can occur with clozapine, but **hepatomegaly** (enlarged liver) itself is not one of its rare, life-threatening side effects requiring specific monitoring above other, more severe issues. - Liver enzyme elevation may be monitored, but this is not the primary "rare but serious" concern. *Renal bleed* - **Renal complications** or **renal bleeding** are not recognized as significant or specifically monitored rare side effects of clozapine. - Clozapine's major concerns primarily involve hematologic (agranulocytosis), cardiovascular (myocarditis), and metabolic systems.

Q: Which of the following is not an off-label use of risperidone?

Bipolar disorder. ***Bipolar disorder*** - **Risperidone** is FDA-approved for the treatment of **bipolar I disorder**, both as monotherapy and adjunctive therapy for acute manic or mixed episodes. - This means its use for bipolar disorder is an **on-label indication**, not an off-label use. *PTSD* - The use of risperidone for **post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)** is considered an **off-label use**, as it is not specifically approved by the FDA for this condition. - While atypical antipsychotics may be used in some cases for severe PTSD symptoms, especially those involving psychosis or severe agitation, it is not a primary or approved treatment. *OCD* - The use of risperidone as an adjunct in **obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)**, particularly in treatment-resistant cases, is an **off-label use**. - While some studies support its use for augmenting SSRIs in OCD, it is not an FDA-approved indication. *Dementia* - Using risperidone for behavioral symptoms associated with **dementia** (e.g., aggression, agitation) is generally considered an **off-label use**. - Although it may be prescribed for these symptoms, there are significant concerns regarding increased mortality risk in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, leading to specific warnings and limited official indications.

Q: A 22-year-old woman presents with a complaint of low energy levels for the past 6 months. She feels as if she has no energy to do anything and has lost interest in photography, which she was previously passionate about. Feelings of hopelessness occupy her mind and she can no longer focus at work. She says she forces herself to hang out with her friends at weekends but would rather stay home. She denies any suicidal ideation. Her past medical history is significant for bulimia nervosa, which was diagnosed when she was a teen and was controlled with cognitive behavioral therapy. In addition, she has gastroesophageal reflux, which is being treated with esomeprazole. The patient has a 10-pack-year smoking history but denies any alcohol or recreational drug use. On examination, she is afebrile and vital signs are within normal limits. Her BMI is 24 kg/m2. Further physical examination is unremarkable. Which of the following aspects of this patient’s history is a contraindication to using bupropion as an antidepressant?

History of bulimia nervosa. ***History of bulimia nervosa*** - Bupropion is **contraindicated** in patients with a history of **eating disorders** such as bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa due to an increased risk of **seizures**. - This risk is thought to be related to **electrolyte imbalances** and metabolic abnormalities often seen in eating disorders, which significantly lower the seizure threshold. *BMI of 24 kg/m2* - A BMI of 24 kg/m2 is within the **healthy weight range** (18.5-24.9 kg/m2) and therefore does not pose a contraindication to bupropion use. - Bupropion is sometimes used to aid in **weight loss**, so a healthy BMI would not typically be a concern. *Smoking cessation* - Bupropion is **approved for smoking cessation** (as Zyban) and can be beneficial in patients trying to quit smoking. - This aspect of the patient's history is an **indication** for bupropion, not a contraindication. *Age of 22 years* - Bupropion is generally **safe and effective** for use in adults, including young adults like a 22-year-old. - There are no specific age-related contraindications for bupropion in this age group, though caution is advised in adolescents due to increased risk of suicidality.

Q: Drug of choice for treatment of akathisia is:-

Propranolol. ***Propranolol*** - **Beta-blockers** like propranolol are considered first-line for treating **akathisia**, especially in cases induced by antipsychotics. - They work by reducing the **adrenergic hyperactivity** and the sensation of inner restlessness characteristic of akathisia. *Haloperidol* - Haloperidol is a **first-generation antipsychotic** that is a common cause of drug-induced **akathisia**. - Administering it would likely **worsen** rather than treat the condition. *Fluoxetine* - Fluoxetine is a **selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)** used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. - It is not indicated for the treatment of **akathisia** and can sometimes induce or worsen motor restlessness. *Lithium* - Lithium is a **mood stabilizer** primarily used for bipolar disorder. - It is not a treatment for **akathisia** and can itself cause various neurological side effects, though akathisia is less common.

Q: All are used in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) except:

Phenobarbitone. ***Phenobarbitone*** - **Phenobarbitone** (phenobarbital) is a **barbiturate** primarily used as an **anticonvulsant** and for sedation. - It works as a **CNS depressant** and would worsen, not improve, symptoms of ADHD, which include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. - **Not indicated** for ADHD management and may cause sedation, cognitive impairment, and paradoxical hyperactivity in children. *Dextro-amphetamine* - **Dextro-amphetamine** is a **stimulant medication** commonly used in ADHD. - It works by increasing levels of **dopamine** and **norepinephrine** in the brain, improving focus and reducing hyperactivity. - Approved for ADHD treatment in both children and adults. *Methylphenidate* - **Methylphenidate** is a **stimulant** widely prescribed for ADHD and considered a first-line treatment. - It acts as a **norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor**, thereby increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters. - Available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. *Atomoxetine* - **Atomoxetine** is a **non-stimulant** selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used for ADHD. - It is particularly useful in patients who cannot tolerate stimulants or have comorbid anxiety disorders. - Preferred when there is concern about substance abuse or tic disorders.

Q: Drug of choice for obsessive-compulsive disorder

Fluoxetine. ***Fluoxetine*** - **Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)** like fluoxetine are considered **first-line pharmacological treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)** due to their effectiveness in modulating serotonin pathways implicated in the disorder. - Multiple SSRIs (fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline) and clomipramine are equally effective first-line agents, but **SSRIs are preferred initially** due to better tolerability and safety profile. - Among the given options, fluoxetine is the appropriate choice as an established first-line SSRI for reducing the frequency and intensity of obsessions and compulsions. - **OCD typically requires higher doses and longer duration** (8-12 weeks) compared to depression treatment. *Haloperidol* - **Haloperidol** is a **first-generation antipsychotic** primarily used to treat psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia) and severe behavioral disturbances. - It works by blocking **dopamine D2 receptors** and is not a first-line treatment for OCD, though it might be used as an **augmentation strategy** in severe, treatment-refractory cases, particularly when tic disorders coexist. *Buspirone* - **Buspirone** is an **anxiolytic** primarily used for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It acts as a **serotonin 5-HT1A receptor partial agonist**. - While it helps with generalized anxiety, it is **generally ineffective** for the specific obsessions and compulsions characteristic of OCD and is not recommended as monotherapy. *Olanzapine* - **Olanzapine** is a **second-generation antipsychotic** primarily used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It blocks dopamine and serotonin receptors. - It is not a first-line treatment for OCD but can be used as an **adjunct to SSRIs** in severe, treatment-resistant cases, particularly when there is partial response to adequate SSRI trials or comorbid psychotic symptoms.

Q: Drugs used in ADHD are:

All of the options. ***All of the options*** - **Methylphenidate**, **dextro-amphetamine**, and **atomoxetine** are all commonly used medications for the treatment of **Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)** [1]. - These drugs work through different mechanisms to improve symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. *Methylphenidate* - This is a **stimulant medication** that works by increasing the levels of **dopamine** and **norepinephrine** in the brain [2]. - It is one of the most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD, available in various formulations (short-acting, long-acting) [1]. *Dextro-amphetamine* - This is also a **stimulant medication** that enhances the release of **dopamine** and **norepinephrine**, similar to methylphenidate [1]. - It is another highly effective treatment for ADHD and is available in forms like Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) [1]. *Atomoxetine* - This is a **non-stimulant medication** that acts as a selective **norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)**. - It is an alternative for individuals who do not respond to stimulants, cannot tolerate them, or have coexisting anxiety disorders; it has a slower onset of action compared to stimulants.

Question 1

A 25-year-old uncooperative patient of schizophrenia was brought in to the casualty. The Casualty Medical Officer gave an injectable drug to the patient. Two hours later patient develops the following posturing. What is the best treatment?

Accepted Answer

Benzhexol

Answer

Propranolol

Answer

Dantrolene sodium

Answer

Ventriculostomy

Question 2

Which of the following medications may be used in a child diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
I. Carbamazepine
II. Methylphenidate
III. Atomoxetine
IV. Clonazepam

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

Accepted Answer

II and III

Answer

I and III

Answer

I and IV

Answer

II and IV

Question 3

A 29 year old lady came to psychiatry OPD with symptoms of hypomania. She has a past history of manic episode. Now, she is planning to conceive. Which drug should be avoided for being highly teratogenic to the fetus?

Accepted Answer

Valproate

Answer

Oxcarbazepine

Answer

Lithium

Answer

Olanzapine

Question 4

A patient of schizophrenia is being treated with clozapine. For which rare but serious side effects should he be monitored?

Accepted Answer

Agranulocytosis

Answer

Seizures

Answer

Hepatomegaly

Answer

Renal bleed

Question 5

Which of the following is not an off-label use of risperidone?

Accepted Answer

Bipolar disorder

Answer

PTSD

Answer

OCD

Answer

Dementia

Question 6

A 22-year-old woman presents with a complaint of low energy levels for the past 6 months. She feels as if she has no energy to do anything and has lost interest in photography, which she was previously passionate about. Feelings of hopelessness occupy her mind and she can no longer focus at work. She says she forces herself to hang out with her friends at weekends but would rather stay home. She denies any suicidal ideation. Her past medical history is significant for bulimia nervosa, which was diagnosed when she was a teen and was controlled with cognitive behavioral therapy. In addition, she has gastroesophageal reflux, which is being treated with esomeprazole. The patient has a 10-pack-year smoking history but denies any alcohol or recreational drug use. On examination, she is afebrile and vital signs are within normal limits. Her BMI is 24 kg/m2. Further physical examination is unremarkable. Which of the following aspects of this patient’s history is a contraindication to using bupropion as an antidepressant?

Accepted Answer

History of bulimia nervosa

Answer

BMI of 24 kg/m2

Answer

Smoking cessation

Answer

Age of 22 years

Question 7

Drug of choice for treatment of akathisia is:-

Accepted Answer

Propranolol

Answer

Haloperidol

Answer

Fluoxetine

Answer

Lithium

Question 8

All are used in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) except:

Accepted Answer

Phenobarbitone

Answer

Dextro-amphetamine

Answer

Methylphenidate

Answer

Atomoxetine

Question 9

Drug of choice for obsessive-compulsive disorder

Accepted Answer

Fluoxetine

Answer

Haloperidol

Answer

Buspirone

Answer

Olanzapine

Question 10

Drugs used in ADHD are:

Accepted Answer

All of the options

Answer

Methylphenidate

Answer

Dextro-amphetamine

Answer

Atomoxetine

Psychopharmacology — MCQs

Psychopharmacology — MCQs

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