**Core Concept:** Long-acting dopamine agonists are medications that mimic the effects of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating movement, mood, and cognition. They are used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and other conditions involving dopamine deficiency.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Pramipexole (Option D) is a long-acting dopamine agonist. It acts specifically on D2 dopamine receptors, enhancing dopaminergic activity in the brain. This helps to alleviate symptoms of Parkinson's disease and restless leg syndrome.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Apomorphine (Option C) is a short-acting dopamine agonist. Unlike pramipexole, it does not require continuous subcutaneous infusion due to its rapid clearance from the body.
B. Bromocriptine (Option B) is another short-acting dopamine agonist used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It primarily acts on D2 and D3 dopamine receptors, with some affinity for serotonin receptors.
**Clinical Pearl:**
Dopamine agonists are typically used in combination with levodopa, a precursor to dopamine, to enhance its effectiveness in treating Parkinson's disease. This combination, known as levodopa-dopa agonist therapy, improves motor symptoms and overall patient quality of life.
**Correct Answer:** Dopamine agonists are typically classified as either long-acting or short-acting based on their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Pramipexole (Option D) is a long-acting dopamine agonist used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and restless leg syndrome.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.