Pharmacy PEBC Practice Exam

CC, a 72 year old female, complains to the pharmacist that her stomach has been bothering her recently. Current medications include: levothyroxine 0.1 mg po daily (x 30 years), acetaminophen 500 mg po qid (x 5 months), atorvastatin 40 mg po hs (x 4 years), ibuprofen 400 mg po tid prn for joint pain (x 2 months) and zopiclone 3.75 mg po hs prn (x 3 months). Which of the following drug therapy problems is most likely contributing to CC’s recent symptoms?

1. Too high a dosage of atorvastatin

2. Too high a dosage of zopiclone

3. Use of ibuprofen without gastroprotection

4. Drug interaction between atorvastatin and zopiclone

The correct answer is: Use of ibuprofen without gastroprotection

The most likely drug therapy problem contributing to CC's recent symptoms is the use of ibuprofen without gastroprotection. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and long-term use can increase the risk of stomach irritation and even ulcers. CC has been taking ibuprofen for joint pain for 2 months and may not be aware of the potential harm it can cause to her stomach. While options A and B may also be possible contributors to her symptoms, there is no information in the question that suggests she is experiencing side effects from these medications. Option D may also be a potential issue, as both atorvastatin and zopiclone can cause drowsiness, but this is less likely to be the main culprit. Regardless, it is important for CC to speak with her doctor or pharmacist about the potential risks of taking ibupro