Thu21October0907PM 6

Sodium nitroprusside:

True / False

Is reconstituted in dextrose and forms a blue solution Correct

Needs to be protected from sunlight Correct

Is a prodrug Correct

Tachyphylaxis may occur Correct

Causes arterial and venous dilatation Correct

Explanation

Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) is an inorganic complex and is a prodrug. It causes both venous and arterial vasodilatation, reducing blood pressure and may cause a reflex tachycardia.

It is presented as a reddish-brown powder and requires reconstitution with dextrose to a straw-coloured solution. Exposure to sunlight causes a dark brown or blue discolouration due to the liberation of cyanide ions that are responsible for its toxic effects.

Tachyphylaxis can occur but the mechanism is unclear.

Reference:

Peck TE, Hill SA, Williams M. Pharmacology for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care. 3rd ed. Edinburgh: Cambridge University Press; 2008.

Sasada M, Smith S. Drugs in Anaesthesia & Intensive Care. 3rd ed. New York: Oxford University Press; 2010.

Answer Statistics

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Average score: 84.45%

Times answered: 220