A child, Ramu has swallowed the contents of 2 bottles of a nasal decongestant whose primary ingredient is a adrenoceptor agonist drug. The signs of a activation that may occur in this patient include :
**Core Concept**
The primary ingredient in the nasal decongestant is an adrenoceptor agonist, specifically an alpha-adrenergic agonist. This class of drugs works by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa, causing vasoconstriction and reducing nasal congestion.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Activation of alpha-adrenergic receptors by the nasal decongestant can lead to an increase in sympathetic tone, causing various systemic effects. The signs of alpha-adrenergic agonist activation in this patient may include hypertension, tachycardia, and pupillary dilation (mydriasis). This is because the alpha-adrenergic agonist stimulates the release of norepinephrine, which acts on alpha-adrenergic receptors in the blood vessels, heart, and other organs, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** is incorrect because it does not accurately describe a common effect of alpha-adrenergic agonist activation.
**Option B:** is incorrect because it is not a typical response to alpha-adrenergic agonist activation.
**Option C:** is incorrect because it is not a direct effect of alpha-adrenergic agonist activation.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Alpha-adrenergic agonists can cause rebound nasal congestion when used for an extended period, known as rhinitis medicamentosa. This occurs due to the body's adaptation to the constant vasoconstriction, leading to a decrease in the number of alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa.
**Correct Answer: C. Pupillary dilation (mydriasis)**