MCQ Pharmacology Answer 60

The Correct Answer is C

Nerve gas agents such as sarin resemble organophosphate insecticides and inactivate anticholinesterase, leading to the accumulation of acetylcholine at nerve endings. Respiratory symptoms include rhinorrhea, bronchorrhea, bronchospasm, and respiratory muscle paralysis. Gastrointestinal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Central nervous system symptoms include headache, vertigo, agitation, seizures, and coma. Exposed patients benefit from treatment with atropine, which competitively inhibits acetylcholine. Pralidoxine chloride and diazepam are also beneficial. Although β-agonists and corticosteroids are beneficial in the general treatment of bronchospasm, atropine is preferred in this nerve gas mediated condition. Ciprofloxacin and verapamil have no role in the treatment of nerve gas exposure.


Ref: Prevention and treatment of injury from chemical warfare agents. Med Left Drugs Ther 2002; 44: 1-4.

Category: Pharmacology MCQs