Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

In which type of patient is Diltiazem used for rate control?

1. Patients with heart failure

2. Patients with asthma

3. Patients with hypertension

4. Patients with hyperthyroidism

The correct answer is: Patients with asthma

Diltiazem is primarily used for rate control in patients, particularly those experiencing specific cardiac conditions such as atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. It is a calcium channel blocker that slows down cardiac conduction, specifically reducing heart rate. In the context of patients with asthma, while certain medications can cause bronchoconstriction, Diltiazem is generally considered more favorable due to its relatively lesser risk of causing significant respiratory problems compared to other medications like beta-blockers. Therefore, for patients with asthma who also might need rate control for atrial fibrillation or other conditions, Diltiazem can be an appropriate choice. Rate control is crucial in patients with certain medical conditions, and understanding each medication's profile is key to effective treatment.