Drug of choice for cheese reaction is
**Core Concept**
Phentolamine is a non-selective alpha-adrenergic antagonist used to treat hypertension, pheochromocytoma, and certain drug-induced reactions, including a "cheese reaction" caused by tyramine-containing foods. This reaction occurs due to the release of excess catecholamines, leading to severe hypertension.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Phentolamine is the preferred treatment for a cheese reaction because it rapidly reverses the effects of excess catecholamines by blocking alpha-adrenergic receptors. This allows for a quick reduction in blood pressure and alleviation of symptoms. Phentolamine is specifically effective in this scenario because it is a potent alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist, which counteracts the vasoconstrictive effects of tyramine-induced catecholamine release.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Prazosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist, but it is not the preferred choice for treating a cheese reaction due to its slower onset of action and potential for causing reflex tachycardia.
**Option C:** Pentazocine is an opioid analgesic and has no role in treating a cheese reaction, which is a hypertensive emergency.
**Option D:** Phenoxybenzamine is a non-selective alpha-adrenergic antagonist, but it is typically used to treat pheochromocytoma and other conditions involving excessive catecholamine production, rather than acute hypertensive emergencies like a cheese reaction.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When treating a cheese reaction, it's essential to rapidly lower blood pressure to prevent complications. Phentolamine's rapid onset and efficacy make it the preferred choice in this situation.
**β Correct Answer: B. Phentolamine**