Practice Test Geeks(LPCC) Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors Certification Practice Test
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Pharmacology Fundamentals Flashcards

7 cards from real LPCC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Pharmacology Fundamentals flashcards as text

  1. A client on lithium reports tremors, nausea, and blurred vision. The serum lithium level is 1.8 mEq/L. What is the clinical priority?

    Answer: Hold the next dose and contact the prescribing physician immediately

    A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L exceeds the therapeutic range (0.6–1.2 mEq/L) and indicates early toxicity requiring immediate medical consultation.

  2. Which neurotransmitter is primarily targeted by SSRIs to reduce symptoms of depression?

    Answer: Serotonin

    SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin at the presynaptic neuron, increasing serotonin availability in the synaptic cleft.

  3. A client taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) consumes aged cheese at dinner. What reaction is most likely to occur?

    Answer: Hypertensive crisis

    Tyramine in aged cheese cannot be metabolized when MAO is inhibited, causing a dangerous release of norepinephrine and a hypertensive crisis.

  4. Which class of medications is most commonly associated with the risk of developing tardive dyskinesia with long-term use?

    Answer: First-generation antipsychotics

    First-generation (typical) antipsychotics block D2 dopamine receptors and carry the highest risk of tardive dyskinesia with prolonged use.

  5. A prescriber orders clonazepam for a client with panic disorder. Under what schedule does this substance fall under the DEA?

    Answer: Schedule IV

    Clonazepam, like other benzodiazepines, is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its lower but existing potential for abuse and dependence.

  6. Which metabolic enzyme is responsible for metabolizing the majority of psychiatric medications in the liver?

    Answer: The CYP450 enzyme system

    The cytochrome P450 (CYP450) system is the primary hepatic enzyme family responsible for metabolizing most psychiatric drugs.

  7. A client suddenly stops taking a high-dose SSRI after 2 years of use. Which discontinuation syndrome symptom is most distinctive for SSRIs?

    Answer: FINISH symptoms including flu-like symptoms and electric shock sensations

    SSRI discontinuation syndrome is characterized by FINISH symptoms: Flu-like symptoms, Insomnia, Nausea, Imbalance, Sensory disturbances, and Hyperarousal.