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Dantrolene is used in malignant hyperthermia. Which of the following statements BEST describes its mechanism of action?

1) It decreases calcium release from sarcoplasmic reticulum
2) It is a succinylcholine antagonist
3) It has an antipyretic effect through prostaglandin inhibition
4) It causes hypothermia through muscle relaxation

User Nick R
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1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

Dantrolene treats malignant hyperthermia by decreasing calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, helping to relax the muscles and reduce hypermetabolism. Option 1 is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

Dantrolene is used in the treatment of malignant hyperthermia, a life-threatening complication that can occur during or after the administration of certain general anesthetics or the muscle relaxant succinylcholine.

The mechanism of action of Dantrolene that best describes how it works in this situation is option 1: It decreases calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum.

Malignant hyperthermia is characterized by a rapid increase in body temperature and severe muscle contractions due to excessive calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum within muscle cells.

By reducing this calcium release, Dantrolene helps to relax the muscles and reduce the hypermetabolic state characteristic of malignant hyperthermia.

The best statement that describes the mechanism of action of Dantrolene in malignant hyperthermia is that it decreases calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum.

User Fjurt
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