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Benzodiazepine reversal risk — FRCA Primary MCQ

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ModeratePharmacologyBenzodiazepine reversal riskFRCA Primary

A benzodiazepine-dependent patient has a mixed overdose and reduced consciousness; reversal is considered but seizure risk is high. Which drug carries this concern?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Flumazenil

Flumazenil can precipitate seizures in benzodiazepine dependence or mixed overdose. Phenylephrine is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Furosemide is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Etomidate is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Atracurium is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. In Primary FRCA pharmacology, link the clinical effect to the receptor, distribution or elimination mechanism rather than memorising isolated facts.

Reference: Peck, Hill & Williams Pharmacology for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care; BNF; Primary FRCA textbooks