Alprazolam (Xanax) is prescribed for an adult with panic attacks. The nurse recognizes that this drug exerts its therapeutic effect by interacting with which neurotransmitter?
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
Norepinephrine
Acetylcholine
Serotonin (5-HT)
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: Alprazolam (Xanax) exerts its therapeutic effect by interacting with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, leading to anxiolytic and sedative effects.
Choice B rationale: Norepinephrine is not the primary neurotransmitter affected by alprazolam.
Choice C rationale: Acetylcholine is not the primary neurotransmitter affected by alprazolam.
Choice D rationale: Serotonin (5-HT) is not the primary neurotransmitter affected by alprazolam.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Adjusting the dose based on symptoms is not appropriate for phenytoin. It should be taken consistently as prescribed.
Choice B rationale: While taking phenytoin with meals is a general recommendation, it is not the priority teaching point.
Choice C rationale: Informing the patient about the prevention of gingival hyperplasia is important but not the top priority.
Choice D rationale: Teaching the patient to avoid the abrupt cessation of treatment is crucial. Abruptly stopping phenytoin can lead to seizures, and patients should be advised to taper the medication under medical supervision.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Physical dependence is one aspect of substance use disorder, but it does not encompass the entire definition.
Choice B rationale: Repeated use of certain drugs can lead to molecular changes in the brain, contributing to addiction.
Choice C rationale: Treatment for substance abuse disorder can be effective even if not entirely voluntary, as involuntary treatment may be court-mandated or involve other external factors.
Choice D rationale: Medications, such as methadone and buprenorphine, are commonly used in the treatment of substance use disorder, challenging the idea that medications should not be used.
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