Maternity Drugs Practice Exam Questions and Answers

Maternity Drugs Practice Exam Questions and Answers

Which of the following drugs is commonly used to treat preeclampsia by lowering blood pressure?

A) Methyldopa
B) Magnesium sulfate
C) Labetalol
D) Oxytocin
Answer: C) Labetalol
Explanation: Labetalol is a beta-blocker used to lower blood pressure in preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Which drug is used to prevent and treat preterm labor by inhibiting uterine contractions?

A) Terbutaline
B) Methyldopa
C) Magnesium sulfate
D) Misoprostol
Answer: A) Terbutaline
Explanation: Terbutaline is a beta-agonist that relaxes uterine smooth muscle and is used to prevent or delay preterm labor.

Which of the following medications is commonly used to induce labor by stimulating uterine contractions?

A) Oxytocin
B) Metoclopramide
C) Folic acid
D) Nifedipine
Answer: A) Oxytocin
Explanation: Oxytocin is a hormone used to stimulate uterine contractions and induce labor in pregnant women.

Which drug is often prescribed during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus?

A) Folic acid
B) Iron supplements
C) Prenatal vitamins
D) Vitamin D
Answer: A) Folic acid
Explanation: Folic acid is essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, in the developing fetus.

Which medication is used to treat hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of morning sickness?

A) Ondansetron
B) Methylprednisolone
C) Metoclopramide
D) Magnesium sulfate
Answer: A) Ondansetron
Explanation: Ondansetron is an antiemetic used to treat nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, particularly for severe morning sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum).

Which of the following drugs is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its teratogenic effects?

A) Lithium
B) Warfarin
C) Methotrexate
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Lithium, warfarin, and methotrexate are all contraindicated during pregnancy because they have known teratogenic effects that can harm the fetus.

Which medication is used to treat gestational diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity?

A) Insulin
B) Metformin
C) Glyburide
D) Pioglitazone
Answer: B) Metformin
Explanation: Metformin is commonly used to treat gestational diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity, though insulin may also be used if needed.

Which drug is used to prevent postpartum hemorrhage by promoting uterine contractions?

A) Methylergonovine
B) Oxytocin
C) Prostaglandin E2
D) Misoprostol
Answer: B) Oxytocin
Explanation: Oxytocin is used after childbirth to help the uterus contract and prevent postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

Which of the following drugs is used to manage the symptoms of preeclampsia, particularly seizures?

A) Magnesium sulfate
B) Hydralazine
C) Labetalol
D) Nifedipine
Answer: A) Magnesium sulfate
Explanation: Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent and treat seizures in women with preeclampsia or eclampsia.

Which of the following drugs is used to treat bacterial infections during pregnancy?

A) Penicillin
B) Ciprofloxacin
C) Tetracycline
D) Sulfamethoxazole
Answer: A) Penicillin
Explanation: Penicillin is considered safe during pregnancy and is used to treat various bacterial infections, unlike drugs like ciprofloxacin or tetracycline, which are contraindicated.

Which medication is used to reduce the risk of preterm labor by inhibiting prostaglandins?

A) Indomethacin
B) Magnesium sulfate
C) Terbutaline
D) Nifedipine
Answer: A) Indomethacin
Explanation: Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits prostaglandin synthesis and can be used to prevent preterm labor.

Which drug is used to treat iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy?

A) Ferrous sulfate
B) Vitamin B12
C) Folic acid
D) Calcium carbonate
Answer: A) Ferrous sulfate
Explanation: Ferrous sulfate is the most common iron supplement prescribed to treat iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy.

Which medication is used to prevent Rh incompatibility in pregnant women with Rh-negative blood?

A) Rh immunoglobulin
B) Iron supplements
C) Methyldopa
D) Vitamin K
Answer: A) Rh immunoglobulin
Explanation: Rh immunoglobulin (RhoGAM) is given to Rh-negative pregnant women to prevent Rh incompatibility, which can cause hemolytic disease of the newborn.

Which drug is given to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) in pregnant women?

A) Nitrofurantoin
B) Doxycycline
C) Ciprofloxacin
D) Azithromycin
Answer: A) Nitrofurantoin
Explanation: Nitrofurantoin is safe and commonly prescribed for UTIs during pregnancy.

Which medication is used to prevent or treat postpartum hemorrhage caused by uterine atony?

A) Methylergonovine
B) Oxytocin
C) Misoprostol
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Methylergonovine, oxytocin, and misoprostol are all used to prevent or treat postpartum hemorrhage by promoting uterine contractions.

Which drug is used to manage nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, particularly in cases of hyperemesis gravidarum?

A) Ondansetron
B) Metoclopramide
C) Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Pyridoxine, ondansetron, and metoclopramide are used to manage nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, with pyridoxine being first-line therapy for mild cases.

Which medication is used to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during pregnancy?

A) Heparin
B) Warfarin
C) Aspirin
D) Clopidogrel
Answer: A) Heparin
Explanation: Heparin is used during pregnancy to reduce the risk of DVT, as it does not cross the placenta. Warfarin is contraindicated in pregnancy due to teratogenic effects.

Which medication is given to treat an ectopic pregnancy?

A) Methotrexate
B) Misoprostol
C) Oxytocin
D) Mifepristone
Answer: A) Methotrexate
Explanation: Methotrexate is a folate antagonist used to treat ectopic pregnancies by inhibiting cell division and resolving the pregnancy.

Which of the following drugs is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its potential to cause birth defects?

A) Warfarin
B) Insulin
C) Metformin
D) Prednisone
Answer: A) Warfarin
Explanation: Warfarin is a known teratogen that can cause birth defects, particularly affecting bone development and cranial malformations.

Which drug is used in the management of asthma during pregnancy, particularly for acute exacerbations?

A) Albuterol
B) Theophylline
C) Salmeterol
D) Montelukast
Answer: A) Albuterol
Explanation: Albuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist used to relieve acute asthma symptoms during pregnancy, as it is considered safe for use.

Which medication is used to treat gestational hypertension to help lower blood pressure?

A) Labetalol
B) Methyldopa
C) Nifedipine
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Labetalol, methyldopa, and nifedipine are commonly used to manage gestational hypertension by lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of complications.

Which drug is used to treat a miscarriage or missed abortion?

A) Misoprostol
B) Mifepristone
C) Methotrexate
D) Doxorubicin
Answer: A) Misoprostol
Explanation: Misoprostol is used to help complete a miscarriage or missed abortion by inducing uterine contractions to expel pregnancy tissue.

Which of the following medications is used to treat bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy?

A) Metronidazole
B) Clindamycin
C) Amoxicillin
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Metronidazole, clindamycin, and amoxicillin are commonly prescribed to treat bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy, though clindamycin is often preferred.

Which drug is used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism in pregnant women?

A) Methimazole
B) Propylthiouracil (PTU)
C) Levothyroxine
D) Iodine-131
Answer: B) Propylthiouracil (PTU)
Explanation: Propylthiouracil (PTU) is preferred for treating hyperthyroidism during pregnancy, as it is less likely to cause birth defects compared to methimazole.

Which medication is used to treat postpartum depression in breastfeeding mothers?

A) Sertraline
B) Fluoxetine
C) Amitriptyline
D) Paroxetine
Answer: A) Sertraline
Explanation: Sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is commonly prescribed for postpartum depression and is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.

Which of the following drugs is used to treat acne during pregnancy?

A) Benzoyl peroxide
B) Tretinoin
C) Isotretinoin
D) Spironolactone
Answer: A) Benzoyl peroxide
Explanation: Benzoyl peroxide is considered safe during pregnancy to treat acne. However, drugs like tretinoin and isotretinoin are contraindicated due to teratogenic risks.

Which of the following medications is used to manage high blood sugar in pregnancy?

A) Insulin
B) Glyburide
C) Metformin
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Insulin, glyburide, and metformin are used to manage gestational diabetes. Insulin is preferred, but oral medications like glyburide and metformin are also commonly used.

Which medication is given to prevent neonatal respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants?

A) Betamethasone
B) Magnesium sulfate
C) Oxytocin
D) Surfactant therapy
Answer: A) Betamethasone
Explanation: Betamethasone is given to pregnant women at risk of preterm delivery to accelerate fetal lung maturity and reduce the risk of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome.

Which drug is commonly used to manage symptoms of preeclampsia and prevent seizures?

A) Magnesium sulfate
B) Hydralazine
C) Labetalol
D) Methyldopa
Answer: A) Magnesium sulfate
Explanation: Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent and treat seizures in women with preeclampsia, while other drugs like labetalol are used to manage high blood pressure.

Which of the following is an appropriate treatment for varicose veins during pregnancy?

A) Compression stockings
B) Aspirin
C) Heparin
D) Warfarin
Answer: A) Compression stockings
Explanation: Compression stockings are recommended for managing varicose veins during pregnancy as they help improve blood circulation and reduce swelling.

Which of the following drugs is used to treat a fungal infection during pregnancy?

A) Fluconazole
B) Terbinafine
C) Clotrimazole
D) All of the above
Answer: C) Clotrimazole
Explanation: Clotrimazole is a topical antifungal that is considered safe during pregnancy for treating fungal infections like vaginal yeast infections.

Which medication is given to prevent preterm labor by relaxing uterine muscles?

A) Terbutaline
B) Magnesium sulfate
C) Indomethacin
D) Nifedipine
Answer: B) Magnesium sulfate
Explanation: Magnesium sulfate is commonly used to relax uterine muscles and delay preterm labor by inhibiting contractions.

Which medication is prescribed for managing severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (hyperemesis gravidarum)?

A) Ondansetron
B) Promethazine
C) Metoclopramide
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Ondansetron, promethazine, and metoclopramide are commonly prescribed for managing hyperemesis gravidarum, with ondansetron being particularly effective for nausea.

Which of the following drugs is contraindicated during breastfeeding due to its potential harmful effects on the infant?

A) Caffeine
B) Chloramphenicol
C) Acetaminophen
D) Ibuprofen
Answer: B) Chloramphenicol
Explanation: Chloramphenicol is contraindicated during breastfeeding because it can cause serious side effects like bone marrow suppression in infants.

Which medication is used to treat or prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) during pregnancy?

A) Nitrofurantoin
B) Amoxicillin
C) Cephalexin
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Nitrofurantoin, amoxicillin, and cephalexin are commonly prescribed to treat UTIs during pregnancy due to their safety profile.

Which of the following is used to manage the risk of blood clots in pregnant women with a history of thromboembolic events?

A) Heparin
B) Warfarin
C) Aspirin
D) Dabigatran
Answer: A) Heparin
Explanation: Heparin is the preferred anticoagulant during pregnancy because it does not cross the placenta and is safe for both the mother and fetus.

Which drug is used to manage elevated cholesterol levels during pregnancy?

A) Atorvastatin
B) Ezetimibe
C) Gemfibrozil
D) Cholestyramine
Answer: D) Cholestyramine
Explanation: Cholestyramine is the preferred drug to lower cholesterol during pregnancy, as statins like atorvastatin are contraindicated due to teratogenic risks.

Which medication is given to a pregnant woman with group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization to prevent neonatal infection during labor?

A) Penicillin
B) Ampicillin
C) Clindamycin
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Penicillin, ampicillin, and clindamycin are commonly used to treat GBS colonization in pregnant women to prevent neonatal infection.

Which of the following drugs is commonly used to treat severe hypertension during pregnancy?

A) Hydralazine
B) Labetalol
C) Methyldopa
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Hydralazine, labetalol, and methyldopa are commonly used to manage severe hypertension in pregnant women with preeclampsia.

Which medication is used to treat a urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by E. coli during pregnancy?

A) Amoxicillin
B) Nitrofurantoin
C) Ceftriaxone
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Amoxicillin, nitrofurantoin, and ceftriaxone are effective for treating E. coli UTIs during pregnancy, depending on sensitivity and resistance patterns.

Which drug is commonly used to manage preterm labor by inhibiting uterine contractions?

A) Nifedipine
B) Magnesium sulfate
C) Terbutaline
D) Indomethacin
Answer: A) Nifedipine
Explanation: Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker that is used to prevent preterm labor by inhibiting uterine contractions.

Which medication is used to treat postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony?

A) Oxytocin
B) Methylergonovine
C) Misoprostol
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Oxytocin, methylergonovine, and misoprostol are all used to treat postpartum hemorrhage by stimulating uterine contractions to stop excessive bleeding.

Which of the following is the preferred drug for managing hypertension in pregnancy?

A) Labetalol
B) Methyldopa
C) Nifedipine
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Labetalol, methyldopa, and nifedipine are all commonly used to manage hypertension during pregnancy, with labetalol often being the first choice for its dual action (alpha and beta blockade).

Which medication is used to treat or prevent iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy?

A) Iron sulfate
B) Vitamin C
C) Folate
D) Calcium supplements
Answer: A) Iron sulfate
Explanation: Iron sulfate is the most commonly prescribed treatment for iron-deficiency anemia in pregnancy, as iron requirements increase during this time.

Which drug is used to prevent or manage morning sickness during pregnancy?

A) Ondansetron
B) Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
C) Metoclopramide
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Ondansetron, pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), and metoclopramide are all used to manage nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, with Vitamin B6 being commonly used for mild cases.

Which drug is used to treat gestational diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity?

A) Insulin
B) Metformin
C) Glyburide
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Insulin, metformin, and glyburide can be used to manage gestational diabetes, with insulin being the primary treatment in severe cases.

Which drug is used to prevent the development of Rh incompatibility in pregnant women with Rh-negative blood type?

A) Rh immunoglobulin (RhoGAM)
B) Iron supplements
C) Folic acid
D) Calcium carbonate
Answer: A) Rh immunoglobulin (RhoGAM)
Explanation: Rh immunoglobulin (RhoGAM) is given to prevent Rh incompatibility by preventing the formation of antibodies against Rh-positive fetal blood cells in Rh-negative mothers.

Which medication is used to manage preeclampsia by reducing the risk of seizures?

A) Magnesium sulfate
B) Hydralazine
C) Labetalol
D) Methyldopa
Answer: A) Magnesium sulfate
Explanation: Magnesium sulfate is the drug of choice for preventing and treating seizures in women with preeclampsia or eclampsia.

Which of the following medications is commonly used for the induction of labor?

A) Misoprostol
B) Oxytocin
C) Dinoprostone
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Misoprostol, oxytocin, and dinoprostone (a prostaglandin) are commonly used for labor induction by stimulating uterine contractions.

Which drug is used to treat toxoplasmosis during pregnancy?

A) Sulfadiazine
B) Amoxicillin
C) Azithromycin
D) Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
Answer: A) Sulfadiazine
Explanation: Sulfadiazine is used to treat toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, though it is often combined with pyrimethamine to treat this parasitic infection.

Which of the following is the most common treatment for acute postpartum pain?
A) Acetaminophen
B) Ibuprofen
C) Opioids
D) Steroids
Answer: B) Ibuprofen
Explanation: Ibuprofen is typically used for managing acute postpartum pain because it reduces inflammation and provides pain relief, and it is considered safe during breastfeeding.

Which drug is used to treat severe hyperemesis gravidarum when other treatments are ineffective?
A) Ondansetron
B) Doxylamine
C) Prednisone
D) Promethazine
Answer: C) Prednisone
Explanation: Prednisone may be used for severe hyperemesis gravidarum when other treatments, such as ondansetron or doxylamine, are ineffective. It is used in lower doses for safety in pregnancy.

Which of the following drugs is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its teratogenic effects?
A) Isotretinoin
B) Fluconazole
C) Paracetamol
D) Amoxicillin
Answer: A) Isotretinoin
Explanation: Isotretinoin is contraindicated during pregnancy because it is highly teratogenic and can cause severe birth defects. It is used for severe acne but requires strict birth control for women of childbearing age.

Which medication is used to prevent or treat maternal-fetal Rh incompatibility?
A) Rh immunoglobulin (RhoGAM)
B) Magnesium sulfate
C) Methyldopa
D) Oxytocin
Answer: A) Rh immunoglobulin (RhoGAM)
Explanation: Rh immunoglobulin (RhoGAM) is given to Rh-negative mothers to prevent the development of antibodies against Rh-positive fetal blood cells, thus preventing Rh incompatibility.

Which medication is used to induce labor in women with a non-reactive cervix?
A) Oxytocin
B) Misoprostol
C) Dinoprostone
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Oxytocin, misoprostol, and dinoprostone are all commonly used to induce labor, with the choice depending on the clinical situation. Misoprostol is often used for cervical ripening.

Which drug is commonly prescribed for the prevention of postpartum depression?
A) Sertraline
B) Amitriptyline
C) Duloxetine
D) Fluoxetine
Answer: A) Sertraline
Explanation: Sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is commonly used to treat postpartum depression and is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.

What is the preferred treatment for a woman diagnosed with gestational hypertension without proteinuria?
A) Bed rest
B) Antihypertensive medications like labetalol
C) Diuretics
D) Magnesium sulfate
Answer: B) Antihypertensive medications like labetalol
Explanation: In cases of gestational hypertension without proteinuria, antihypertensive medications like labetalol are often prescribed to prevent complications, including stroke or placental abruption.

Which of the following medications is used to treat a woman with a confirmed diagnosis of chlamydia during pregnancy?
A) Azithromycin
B) Doxycycline
C) Erythromycin
D) Metronidazole
Answer: A) Azithromycin
Explanation: Azithromycin is the preferred antibiotic for treating chlamydia during pregnancy due to its safety profile.

Which of the following is the most common first-line treatment for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (morning sickness)?
A) Ondansetron
B) Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
C) Metoclopramide
D) Diphenhydramine
Answer: B) Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Explanation: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is commonly used as the first-line treatment for mild nausea and vomiting in pregnancy due to its safety and effectiveness.

Which of the following medications is used to treat bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy?
A) Metronidazole
B) Clindamycin
C) Erythromycin
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Metronidazole, clindamycin, and erythromycin are commonly used to treat bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy. However, clindamycin and metronidazole are more frequently prescribed.

Which of the following medications is recommended for use during labor to reduce the risk of infection in the mother?
A) Penicillin
B) Ceftriaxone
C) Erythromycin
D) Miconazole
Answer: A) Penicillin
Explanation: Penicillin is commonly used during labor in women who test positive for group B Streptococcus (GBS) to prevent neonatal infection.

Which of the following drugs is used for the medical management of an incomplete abortion?
A) Misoprostol
B) Methotrexate
C) Oxytocin
D) Mifepristone
Answer: A) Misoprostol
Explanation: Misoprostol is used to manage incomplete abortion by inducing uterine contractions to expel the remaining pregnancy tissue.

Which medication is commonly used to treat postpartum constipation?
A) Docusate sodium
B) Laxatives
C) Magnesium citrate
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Docusate sodium, laxatives, and magnesium citrate are all used to treat constipation postpartum, with docusate sodium being a common first-line treatment due to its mild effect.

Which of the following drugs is used to prevent the recurrence of preterm labor?
A) Progesterone
B) Terbutaline
C) Magnesium sulfate
D) Nifedipine
Answer: A) Progesterone
Explanation: Progesterone is often prescribed to prevent preterm labor in women with a history of preterm birth or short cervix.

Which medication is used to treat a urinary tract infection (UTI) during pregnancy?
A) Nitrofurantoin
B) Amoxicillin
C) Cephalexin
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Nitrofurantoin, amoxicillin, and cephalexin are safe and commonly used to treat urinary tract infections during pregnancy, depending on the specific pathogen.

Which of the following medications can be used to treat Candida infections in pregnant women?
A) Clotrimazole
B) Fluconazole
C) Ketoconazole
D) Nystatin
Answer: A) Clotrimazole
Explanation: Clotrimazole is the preferred antifungal for treating vaginal Candida infections during pregnancy due to its safety profile.

Which drug is used to manage hyperthyroidism in pregnancy?
A) Methimazole
B) Propylthiouracil (PTU)
C) Levothyroxine
D) Iodine-131
Answer: B) Propylthiouracil (PTU)
Explanation: Propylthiouracil (PTU) is the first-line drug for managing hyperthyroidism during pregnancy as it is less likely to cause fetal harm compared to methimazole.

Which of the following medications is used to reduce the risk of preterm labor in women with a short cervix?
A) Progesterone
B) Nifedipine
C) Terbutaline
D) Magnesium sulfate
Answer: A) Progesterone
Explanation: Progesterone is used to reduce the risk of preterm labor in women with a short cervix, as it helps maintain uterine quiescence.

Which of the following medications is commonly prescribed for managing high blood pressure in pregnant women with preeclampsia?
A) Hydralazine
B) Methyldopa
C) Labetalol
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Hydralazine, methyldopa, and labetalol are commonly prescribed to manage high blood pressure in pregnant women with preeclampsia.

Which drug is contraindicated for use during pregnancy due to its teratogenic effects on the fetus?
A) Valproic acid
B) Lisinopril
C) Ceftriaxone
D) Acetaminophen
Answer: A) Valproic acid
Explanation: Valproic acid is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its teratogenic effects, including neural tube defects and cognitive impairment.