Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam Practice Question

Which of the following is an IV medication that has a narrow therapeutic index and requires periodic laboratory monitoring to prevent patient harm?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Vancomycin is an intravenous antibiotic with a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that the difference between therapeutic and toxic doses is small. Regular laboratory monitoring of serum levels is essential to avoid nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity.

Varenicline (A) is an oral medication for smoking cessation and does not require such monitoring. Venlafaxine (B), an antidepressant, is also oral and while it may require monitoring for side effects, it does not have a narrow therapeutic index like vancomycin. Valacyclovir (C) is an antiviral medication that, while effective, does not necessitate routine lab monitoring for safety.

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