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

Which drugs may increase serum glucose levels, affecting corticosteroid therapy?

1. Antidiabetic drugs

2. Ibuprofen and paracetamol

3. Aspirin and antacids

4. Vitamin supplements

The correct answer is: Antidiabetic drugs

Corticosteroid therapy is often used for patients with diabetes and is crucial in managing their condition. However, certain drugs, such as antidiabetic drugs, may interact with the corticosteroids and affect their effectiveness. This is because antidiabetic drugs can increase the levels of glucose in the blood, which can counter the effects of the corticosteroids in regulating blood sugar levels. Ibuprofen and paracetamol may also interact with corticosteroids, but they do not have a direct effect on glucose levels. Aspirin and antacids may interact with corticosteroids in other ways, but they do not affect glucose levels. Vitamin supplements, while important for overall health, do not have any direct interactions with corticosteroids. Therefore, out of the given options, the only correct answer is A - antidiabetic drugs.