Pharmacy PEBC Practice Exam

TK is a 54 year old male who is a new patient at the pharmacy. He presents today with a new prescription for 20 diazepam 10 mg, i po qid and taper as directed over 5-7 days. In discussion with the pharmacist, TK admits that he has abused alcohol for the last 3 years, but that he stopped drinking yesterday when he went to an alcohol treatment centre. He discloses that he has not been looking after himself or eating well in recent months. His current symptoms include agitation, insomnia and tremulousness. His medical history is otherwise insignificant. Which of the following drug therapy problems is the most important current issue for the pharmacist to identify for TK?

1. TK is receiving too high a dose of diazepam.

2. Diazepam is not indicated for TK.

3. TK requires treatment with thiamine.

4. TK is not currently experiencing any drug therapy problems.

The correct answer is: TK requires treatment with thiamine.

The most important drug therapy problem for the pharmacist to identify for TK is that he requires treatment with thiamine. This is because TK has a history of alcohol abuse and is currently experiencing symptoms that are commonly associated with alcohol withdrawal, such as agitation, insomnia, and tremulousness. Thiamine is essential for helping the body metabolize alcohol and can prevent or improve symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Option A is incorrect because the dose of diazepam is appropriate for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal. Option B is incorrect because diazepam can be used for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal. Option D is incorrect because TK is experiencing a drug therapy problem related to his alcohol abuse and may require additional treatment beyond the diazepam prescription.