Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT)

Which medication is typically used as an emergency drug for ischemic heart disease?

1. Flumazenil

2. Naloxone

3. Nitroglycerin

4. Aspirin

The correct answer is: Nitroglycerin

Nitroglycerin is commonly used as an emergency medication for ischemic heart disease primarily due to its rapid action in relieving angina and improving blood flow to the heart. It functions as a vasodilator, which means it relaxes the smooth muscles in blood vessels, allowing them to widen. This widening reduces the workload on the heart and increases coronary blood flow, making it highly effective in treating acute angina attacks associated with ischemic heart disease. Immediate relief of chest pain is crucial in these situations, and nitroglycerin can be administered sublingually (under the tongue), allowing for quick absorption into the bloodstream. This swift delivery is particularly important in emergency settings, as timely intervention can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications such as myocardial infarction. The other medications listed do have important therapeutic roles, but they are not typically used specifically for acute management of ischemic heart disease. Flumazenil is mainly used to reverse benzodiazepine sedation, naloxone is an opioid antagonist used in cases of opioid overdose, and aspirin is often used in a preventative context or for pain relief rather than immediate relief of ischemic episodes.