Chapter 23. Drugs Affecting the Integumentary System

____ 1. Li is a 6-month-old infant with severe eczema. She would benefit from topical corticosteroid therapy. Instructions for using topical corticosteroids in children include:

1. Apply liberally to all areas with eczema.

2. Double the frequency of application when the eczema is severe.

3. Apply sparingly to eczema areas.

4. Cover the eczema area with an occlusive dressing after applying a corticosteroid.

____ 2. Jose has had eczema for many years and reports that he thinks his corticosteroid cream is not working as well as it was previously. He may be experiencing tolerance to the corticosteroid. Treatment options include:

1. Increase the potency of the corticosteroid cream.

2. Recommend an interrupted or cyclic schedule of application.

3. Increase the frequency of dosing of the corticosteroid.

4. Discontinue the corticosteroid because it isn’t working any longer .

____ 3. When prescribing tacrolimus (Protopic) to treat atopic dermatitis patients should be informed that:

1. Tacrolimus is the most effective if it is used continuously for 4 to 6 months.

2. Tacrolimus should be spread generously over the affected area.

3. The FDA has issued a Black Box warning about the use of tacrolimus and the development of cancer in animals and humans.

4. The FDA recommends patients be screened for cancer before prescribing tacrolimus.

____ 4. Patients who are treated with greater than 100 grams per week of topical calcipotriene for psoriasis need to be monitored for:

1. High vitamin D levels

2. Hyperkalemia