Question

A patient with a previous history of myocardial infarction and ventricular arrhythmia is ontreatment for a few months. He developed fatigue, dyspnea, and weight gain. He had also developed pulmonary fibrosis. Which of the following drugs is responsible for the side effects mentioned above?

• A. Amiodarone
• B. Atenolol
• C. Aspirin
• D. Spironolactone

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

A patient with a history of myocardial infarction and ventricular arrhythmia has been undergoing treatment for several months. The development of symptoms such as fatigue, dyspnea (difficulty breathing), weight gain, and pulmonary fibrosis signals a specific drug side effect profile. To determine which medication is responsible, we examine the side effects:

• Amiodarone: Known for causing pulmonary fibrosis, thyroid dysfunction, and skin changes, it also causes fatigue and dyspnea. These are consistent with the symptoms reported by the patient.
• Atenolol: A beta-blocker, can cause fatigue and sometimes respiratory issues but is not typically associated with pulmonary fibrosis.
• Aspirin: Primarily causes gastrointestinal issues, not pulmonary fibrosis or significant breathing problems.
• Spironolactone: Can cause weight gain and respiratory issues to a lesser extent but not pulmonary fibrosis.

Based on the evaluation of the drug side effects, Amiodarone is the most likely cause of the patient’s symptoms, particularly due to its common association with pulmonary fibrosis. Therefore, the correct answer is Amiodarone.