Pharmacology and the Nursing Process by Linda Lane Lilley: Practice Exam

What are beta-adrenergic agonists also known as due to their mechanism of action?

1. Parasympathomimetic agents

2. Sympathomimetic bronchodilators

3. Cholinergic blockers

4. Adrenergic blockers

The correct answer is: Sympathomimetic bronchodilators

Beta-adrenergic agonists are known as sympathomimetic bronchodilators due to their mechanism of action, which mimics and enhances the effects of the sympathetic nervous system on the beta-adrenergic receptors. Option A, parasympathomimetic agents, is incorrect because it refers to substances that mimic the effects of the parasympathetic nervous system, which would have opposite effects to beta-adrenergic agonists. Option C, cholinergic blockers, is incorrect because it refers to substances that block the effects of the parasympathetic nervous system, again having opposite effects to beta-adrenergic agonists. Option D, adrenergic blockers, is incorrect because it refers to substances that block the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, and beta-adrenergic agonists have the opposite effect of stimulating the sympathetic nervous system