NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

What is the primary function of intranasal ipratropium?

1. Decrease congestion

2. Decrease rhinorrhea

3. Stabilize mast cells

4. Block histamine receptors

The correct answer is: Decrease rhinorrhea

The primary function of intranasal ipratropium is to decrease rhinorrhea. Ipratropium is an anticholinergic medication that works by blocking acetylcholine receptors in the nasal passages, leading to a decrease in the production of nasal secretions. This helps reduce rhinorrhea, which is characterized by excessive nasal drainage. The other options are incorrect: - Decrease congestion: Although ipratropium may also help reduce nasal congestion to some extent, its primary function in the context of intranasal use is to decrease rhinorrhea. - Stabilize mast cells: This is not the main mechanism of action of ipratropium. Stabilizing mast cells is often associated with medications like intranasal cromolyn sodium, which is used to prevent allergic reactions. - Block histamine receptors: Ipratropium does not block histamine receptors. Histamine receptor blockers, such as antihistamines like loratadine or cetirizine, are commonly used to relieve symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose that are caused by histamine release in allergic reactions.