Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

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Cluster headache treatment may include which of the following besides oxygen?

Sumatriptan 6mg SQ
Verapamil
If pain persists, then increase dosage
ALL of the above

The correct answer is: Sumatriptan 6mg SQ

Cluster headaches are characterized by severe unilateral pain that occurs in cyclical patterns or clusters. Effective treatment options aim to alleviate the pain during an attack and prevent future episodes. Sumatriptan, a selective serotonin receptor agonist, is frequently used for acute treatment. When administered subcutaneously, it provides rapid relief, making it a suitable option in managing acute cluster headaches. This medication effectively constricts blood vessels and alleviates the pain. In addition to acute treatments, calcium channel blockers like verapamil are commonly employed as preventative measures for cluster headaches. Verapamil helps to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks when taken regularly. For those who continue to experience pain despite initial treatment efforts, increasing the dosage can be a valid strategy. Adjusting the dosage allows for better management of symptoms and can be tailored to the patient’s individual response to treatment. Considering all these aspects, the inclusion of sumatriptan reflects the recognition of effective acute management of cluster headaches, highlighting the option as a valid treatment choice alongside oxygen therapy.