Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

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Which medication is used for rate control in patients with asthma?

Atenolol
Ditilezem
Verapamil
Diltiazem

The correct answer is: Diltiazem

Diltiazem is a medication that belongs to the class of calcium channel blockers, specifically the benzothiazepine subgroup. It is effective in controlling heart rate by blocking calcium channels in the cardiovascular system, which leads to a decrease in heart rate and myocardial contractility. This makes it particularly useful for managing conditions like atrial fibrillation or flutter, where rate control is essential. In patients with asthma, it is important to choose medications carefully to avoid exacerbating respiratory issues. Diltiazem, unlike some beta-blockers, does not constrict airways and is generally considered safe for use in asthmatic patients for rate control. In contrast, atenolol, a selective beta-blocker, may potentially worsen bronchoconstriction in these patients. Verapamil, another calcium channel blocker, shares similar properties with diltiazem in terms of rate control, but in practice, diltiazem is often preferred for rate control in asthmatic patients. Ditilezem seems to be a typographical error. Therefore, diltiazem is the preferred medication in this context for its balance of efficacy in controlling heart rate while being safe for patients with asthma.