Assessment findings of moonface, hypertension, petechiae, and truncal obesity indicate increased ACTH. Which medication does the nurse expect to be prescribed?

Study for the Disorders of the Adrenal Gland Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Assessment findings of moonface, hypertension, petechiae, and truncal obesity indicate increased ACTH. Which medication does the nurse expect to be prescribed?

Elevated ACTH points to ACTH-dependent Cushing syndrome, where excess ACTH drives too much cortisol. To reduce cortisol, one approach is to blunt ACTH secretion from the pituitary. Serotonin stimulates ACTH release, so a serotonin receptor antagonist can lower ACTH output. Cyproheptadine blocks serotonin receptors, which decreases ACTH secretion and thus cortisol production. That helps reverse features like moon face, truncal obesity, hypertension, and petechiae.

Hydrocortisone would add cortisol, worsening the problem. Spironolactone mainly helps with fluid status and mineralocorticoid effects, not ACTH suppression. Metformin addresses glucose/metabolic issues but not the underlying cortisol excess.

Assessment findings of moonface, hypertension, petechiae, and truncal obesity indicate increased ACTH. Which medication does the nurse expect to be prescribed?

Study for the Disorders of the Adrenal Gland Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam!

Assessment findings of moonface, hypertension, petechiae, and truncal obesity indicate increased ACTH. Which medication does the nurse expect to be prescribed?

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