Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Drugs — MCQs

Q: Which opioid drug is effectively administered via the transbuccal route?

Fentanyl. ***Fentanyl*** - **Fentanyl** is a potent, **lipophilic opioid** that is well-absorbed through mucous membranes, making it suitable for **transbuccal administration**. - Its high potency and rapid onset of action when administered transbuccally make it useful for breakthrough pain or rapid analgesia. *Sulfentanil* - While also a potent opioid, **sulfentanil** is primarily used intravenously for anesthesia and is not commonly formulated or administered via the transbuccal route. - Its chemical properties and pharmacokinetic profile do not lend themselves as readily to transbuccal absorption compared to fentanyl for practical clinical use. *Remifentanil* - **Remifentanil** is an **ultra-short-acting opioid** metabolized by plasma esterases, making it ideal for continuous intravenous infusions where rapid offset is desired. - Its rapid metabolism and specific pharmacokinetic properties make it unsuitable for transbuccal extended release or sustained absorption. *Alfentanil* - **Alfentanil** is a short-acting opioid predominantly used intravenously for induction and maintenance of anesthesia. - Although it has a rapid onset, it is not optimized or commonly utilized for transbuccal administration due to its lower lipophilicity and different absorption characteristics compared to fentanyl.

Q: A 75-year-old man with chronic kidney disease presents with worsening dyspnea and lower extremity edema. Which class of drugs should be used cautiously in this patient?

NSAIDs. ***NSAIDs*** - **NSAIDs** can cause **acute kidney injury** by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which leads to **afferent arteriolar vasoconstriction** and reduced renal blood flow. This effect is exaggerated in patients with **pre-existing chronic kidney disease**. - They also can exacerbate **fluid retention** and worsen **edema** and symptoms of **heart failure**, which is particularly problematic in a patient with dyspnea and lower extremity edema. *ACE inhibitors* - While generally beneficial in CKD to slow progression, **ACE inhibitors** can cause **acute kidney injury** in patients with **renal artery stenosis** or severe volume depletion due to efferent arteriolar vasodilation. - They can also lead to **hyperkalemia**, which requires monitoring, but they are not contraindicated in this patient's presentation per se. *Beta-blockers* - **Beta-blockers** are often prescribed for cardiovascular conditions common in CKD patients, such as **hypertension** and **heart failure**, and are generally safe in CKD with appropriate dosing. - While some beta-blockers are renally excreted, their primary mechanism does not directly worsen kidney function or fluid retention in the same way NSAIDs do. *Diuretics* - **Diuretics** are essential in managing fluid overload, dyspnea, and edema in patients with **chronic kidney disease** and heart failure. - Although loop diuretics may be less effective with reduced kidney function and higher doses might be needed, they are not typically used cautiously; rather, they are a cornerstone of treatment for these symptoms.

Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Drugs — MCQs

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NSAIDs: Classification and Mechanism

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COX-2 Selective Inhibitors

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Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)

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Opioid Analgesics and Antagonists

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Drugs Used in Gout and Hyperuricemia

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Drugs Used in Rheumatoid Arthritis

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Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs

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Glucocorticoids as Anti-inflammatory Agents

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Migraine Therapeutics

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Neuropathic Pain Management

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