Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies Q 97
When you are taking a patient’s history, she tells you she has been depressed and is dealing with an anxiety disorder. Which of the following medications would the patient most likely be taking?
A. Amitriptyline (Elavil)
B. Calcitonin
C. Pergolide mesylate (Permax)
D. Verapamil (Calan)
Correct Answer: A. Amitriptyline (Elavil)
Amitriptyline (Elavil) is a tricyclic antidepressant and used to treat symptoms of depression.
Option B: Calcitonin is used to treat osteoporosis in women who have been in menopause. Calcitonin is a hormone that is produced in humans by the parafollicular cells (commonly known as C-cells) of the thyroid gland. Calcitonin is involved in helping to regulate levels of calcium and phosphate in the blood, opposing the action of the parathyroid hormone.
Option C: Permax (pergolide mesylate) is indicated as adjunctive treatment to levodopa/carbidopa in the management of the signs and symptoms of Parkinson†s disease.
Option D: Verapamil is used to treat high blood pressure and to control angina (chest pain). The immediate-release tablets are also used alone or with other medications to prevent and treat irregular heartbeats. Verapamil is in a class of medications called calcium-channel blockers. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. It also increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart and slows electrical activity in the heart to control the heart rate.