USMLE Step 1

USMLE Step 1 QUESTION of the DAY!

A 55 year-old man is treated with Propranolol for his hypertension. What side effects should the Doctor advise him of?

A) Headaches
B) Constipation
C) Sexual dysfunction
D) Exacerbation of GERD
E) Rebound hypertension

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Answer: C) Sexual dysfunction. Propranolol is a Beta Blocker. Its side effects include sexual dysfunction, arrhythmias if drug stopped abruptly, bronchoconstriction, and blocking hypoglycemic response in diabetics. Headaches are seen in alpha blockers and Ca channel blockers. Constipation and exacerbation of GERD are also ADR’s of Ca channel blockers. Rebound hypertension is seen when Clonidine is stopped abruptly.




USMLE Step 1 D.O.C. of the DAY

Drug of choice for

Salmonella Typhi causing Typhoid fever

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Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole



FACT of the DAY!

Mesothelioma
-malignant or benign tumor arising in the pleura. Malignant form is strongly associated with prolonged asbestos exposure.
-NO association between smoking and mesothelioma
-pathologic process: pleural exudative effusion accounts for its preferred spread pattern along the pleura. Metastases are common to the pericardium, mediastinum, and the contralateral pleura.