NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

Which category of medication includes Salmeterol (Serevent Diskus)?

1. Beta-2 agonists

2. SAMA

3. LAMA

4. PDE-4 inhibitors

The correct answer is: Beta-2 agonists

Salmeterol, commonly known as Serevent Diskus, is a medication that falls under the category of beta-2 agonists. Beta-2 agonists are a type of bronchodilator medication that works by relaxing the airway muscles and allowing for easier breathing. This medication is specifically used for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Option B, SAMA, stands for short-acting muscarinic antagonists. These medications also work to relax the airway muscles, but are typically used for the treatment of acute respiratory symptoms, such as inhaled for the relief of sudden asthma attacks. Option C, LAMA, stands for long-acting muscarinic antagonists. These medications work similarly to SAMA, but have a longer duration of action and are used for the maintenance treatment of COPD. Option D, PDE-4 inhibitors, are a type of anti-inflammatory medication used in the treatment of COPD. These medications work by reducing inflammation in the airways, helping to improve breathing symptoms. Overall, Salmeterol (Serevent Diskus) falls under the category of beta-2 agonists and is used for the treatment of asthma and COPD