Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which pharmacologic therapy is appropriate for a patient diagnosed with trichomoniasis?

1. Metronidazole (Flagyl)

2. Ceftriaxone sodium (Rocephin)

3. Doxycycline hyclate (Vibramycin)

4. Clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin)

The correct answer is: Metronidazole (Flagyl)

Metronidazole is the appropriate pharmacologic therapy for a patient diagnosed with trichomoniasis because it is an effective antimicrobial agent specifically indicated for the treatment of this sexually transmitted infection. Trichomoniasis is caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, and metronidazole is well-known for its efficacy against this organism. The mechanism of action of metronidazole involves the reduction of the nitro group in anaerobic bacteria and protozoa, leading to the production of free radicals that can damage the DNA of the pathogens, thereby inhibiting their growth. Metronidazole is absorbed well by the gastrointestinal tract and is typically administered as a single oral dose or as a longer regimen depending on the clinical scenario. Other options listed do not have the same efficacy for trichomoniasis. Ceftriaxone sodium is a cephalosporin antibiotic primarily used to treat bacterial infections, including gonorrhea, but it does not target the protozoan causing trichomoniasis. Doxycycline hyclate is a tetracycline antibiotic used for various bacterial infections but is not effective against protozoa. Clotrimazole is an antifungal medication used to treat yeast infections and has no activity against