Pharmacy PEBC Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of a high-alert medication?

1. Ibuprofen

2. Metformin

3. Insulin

4. Amoxicillin

The correct answer is: Insulin

High-alert medications are those that have a higher risk of causing significant patient harm when they are used in error. These medications require special safeguards to reduce the risk of errors and ensure patient safety. Insulin is classified as a high-alert medication because of its ability to cause severe hypoglycemia if administered incorrectly. Since it is commonly used to manage diabetes, insulin dosing can be complex and varied based on factors such as a patient's diet, activity level, and current blood glucose levels. Errors in dosing, such as overdosing or underdosing, can result in dangerous consequences for the patient, including hospitalization or even death. In contrast, medications like ibuprofen and amoxicillin, while they can have side effects and require proper use, do not typically have the same immediate potential for severe harm if used improperly. Metformin, while also important in diabetes management, generally has a safer profile with a lower risk of acute harm in the case of dosing errors compared to insulin. Therefore, insulin stands out as a high-alert medication that necessitates careful oversight and management in clinical settings.