Question

Which drug can be used to differentiate whether a patient is experiencing a myasthenic crisis as opposed to a cholinergic crisis?

A) Atropine
B) Pyridostigmine
C) Edrophonium
D) Neostigmine

Answer 1

The drug that can be used to differentiate between a myasthenic crisis and a cholinergic crisis is Edrophonium.

Step-by-step explanation:

To differentiate whether a patient is experiencing a myasthenic crisis or a cholinergic crisis, the drug that can be used is Edrophonium. Edrophonium is a short-acting acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that temporarily increases the levels of acetylcholine in the neuromuscular junction.

In a myasthenic crisis, where there is a weakness of the muscles due to an autoimmune disorder called myasthenia gravis, edrophonium can provide momentary relief and improve muscle strength. On the other hand, in a cholinergic crisis, which can result from an overdose of cholinesterase inhibitors like pyridostigmine or neostigmine, edrophonium can exacerbate the symptoms due to excessive acetylcholine.

In summary, edrophonium is the drug that can help differentiate between a myasthenic crisis and a cholinergic crisis by its effect on muscle strength and symptoms.