**Core Concept:** Ototoxicity refers to the toxic effects of drugs on the inner ear structures, primarily affecting hearing and/or balance function. Common ototoxic drugs include aminoglycoside antibiotics, loop diuretics, and certain chemotherapy agents.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Option D, "Acyclovir," is not an ototoxic drug. Acyclovir is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat viral infections such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It does not directly affect the inner ear structures, unlike ototoxic drugs like aminoglycoside antibiotics and loop diuretics.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. **"Amikacin":** Amikacin is a member of the aminoglycoside antibiotic class, which are known to cause ototoxicity by disrupting the function of inner ear cells (e.g., hair cells) leading to hearing loss and/or balance disorders.
B. **"Furosemide":** Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause ototoxicity, particularly affecting the cochlea and leading to hearing loss.
C. **"Cisplatin":** Cisplatin is a widely used chemotherapy agent that can cause ototoxicity by damaging inner ear structures, often leading to tinnitus, hearing loss, and vestibular dysfunction.
**Clinical Pearl:** It is essential for healthcare professionals, especially physicians and pharmacists, to recognize and prevent ototoxic drug-related complications. Monitoring patients on potentially ototoxic medications and adjusting the treatment regimen accordingly is crucial. Additionally, counseling patients about the risks and symptoms of ototoxicity can help them seek timely medical attention.
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.