Examination Practice worksheet

Define the following terms:

(i) drug affinity

(ii) pharmacophore
(iii) drug potency
[3 marks]

What drugs are concidered MAOIs?

[2 mraks]

Is the following statement TRUE OR FALSE?

“When GABA binds to GABA receptors, they change shape slightly to allow ions to
pass through their central channel. This channel mainly allows negatively charged
chloride neurons to enter the neuron, thus increasing its excitability.”
A) TRUE
B) FALSE

Is the following statement TRUE OR FALSE?

“β-Lactam antibiotics act by inhibiting the synthesis of the peptidoglycan layer of the
bacterial cell wall.”
A) TRUE
B) FALSE

Is the following statement TRUE OR FALSE?

“In HPLC analysis, the mobile phase is allowed to pass through or over the stationary
phase which is fixed. The interaction between the solute and the mobile phase only, is
responsible for achieving separation.”
A) TRUE
B) FALSE

Write the mechanism for the cytochrome P450 mediated oxidative deamination of the
following compound:
 H3C
H
H3C N
CH3

CH3

Describe how GABA and the GABAA receptor work to depress the central nervous system
(CNS).
(10marks)

Describe the mechanism of action for CNS depressants, like the barbiturates work to produce
depolarize neurons.
(5 marks)

Some CNS stimulants work by affecting the degradation or reuptake of three important
neurotransmitters.

i. Name these three neurotransmitters.

ii. Briefly describe how neurotransmitters degradation occurs,

which enzyme is involved and how it produces CNS stimulation.

iii. Briefly describe how neurotransmitter reuptake produces

CNS stimulation.
(3+5+2 marks)

Suggest, by means of chemical equations and/or notes, feasible initial steps for the
metabolism of 4-aminoazobenzene.
[4 marks]
With reference to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), shown below, explain the steps involved in
its metabolism and how it is eventually removed from the body. Be sure to discuss:

THC

i. the enzyme involved;

ii. the purpose of the enzyme reactions;
iii. the nature of the metabolites produced;
iv. any compounds which may be conjugated to the metabolites;
v. the purpose of any conjugate formed.

[5 x 3 marks]