Which of the following drug is a Glycoside?

Appeared in: UPPSC 2023

Explanation

Digoxin is classified as a cardiac glycoside, a class of drugs known for their effects on the heart.
It is derived from the leaves of the Digitalis lanata plant (white foxglove).
Its primary use is in treating congestive heart failure and certain cardiac arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation.
The mechanism of action involves the inhibition of the Na+/K+-ATPase pump in the heart muscle cells, which increases the force of contraction and slows the heart rate.

Option B: Serpasil (reserpine) is an alkaloid, not a glycoside. Alkaloids are a different class of naturally occurring chemical compounds containing nitrogen atoms.
Option C: Lasix (furosemide) is a loop diuretic, which is a sulfonamide derivative. It works on the kidneys to increase urine output.
Option D: Morphine is a potent opioid analgesic. Chemically, it is an alkaloid derived from the opium poppy.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Pharmacological classification of common drugs, specifically identifying a glycoside helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Understanding drug classifications is fundamental for safe nursing practice. It allows nurses to anticipate therapeutic effects, predict adverse reactions, and identify potential drug interactions.
Administering Digoxin requires meticulous nursing assessment, including checking the apical pulse for a full minute and monitoring for signs of toxicity (e.g., nausea, visual changes) and electrolyte imbalances, especially hypokalemia.
What if? If a patient on Digoxin is also prescribed Lasix (a potassium-wasting diuretic), the nurse's priority action is to closely monitor serum potassium levels. If hypokalemia occurs, the nurse must withhold the Digoxin and notify the provider, as low potassium significantly increases the risk of life-threatening digoxin toxicity.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing knowledge of basic pharmacology.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'Glycoside'.
Systematically review the classification of each drug listed in the options.
Recall or deduce that Digoxin is the classic example of a cardiac glycoside taught in nursing pharmacology.
Confirm the classifications of the other drugs: Serpasil (alkaloid), Lasix (diuretic), and Morphine (opioid alkaloid).
Select the option that matches the 'glycoside' classification.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Pharmacological classification of common drugs, specifically identifying a glycoside.
Stem keywords: drug, Glycoside
Lead-in keywords: Which
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Pharmacology Katzung 16e p. 335-337

E6 Pharmacology Nurses Shanbhag 3e p. 119-121

E6 Pharmacology KD Tripathi Essentials 9e Part 2 p. 187-189

Practise the full UPPSC 2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.