Question

The client with Cushing's disease is admitted to the unit for treatment of his illness. Which medication is often used to treat Cushing's disease? A. Spironolactone (Aldactone) B. Nitroprusside (Nitropress) C. Dexamethasone (Decadron) D. Demeclocycline (Tetracycline)

Short answer

Answer: Demeclocycline (Tetracycline)

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the function of each medication

To choose the correct medication for treating Cushing's disease, we must first understand the function of each medication listed in the options. A. Spironolactone (Aldactone) - A diuretic that helps the body remove excess fluids and treat high blood pressure. B. Nitroprusside (Nitropress) - A vasodilator used to lower blood pressure in severe hypertensive cases. C. Dexamethasone (Decadron) - A corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation in the body. D. Demeclocycline (Tetracycline) - An antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.

Evaluating the medication options based on their functions

Now that we know the functions of each medication, we can evaluate which one is more appropriate for treating Cushing's disease, a condition characterized by excessive cortisol production in the body. A. Spironolactone (Aldactone) - This medication is not suitable for treating Cushing's disease, as it is primarily used to remove excess fluids and treat high blood pressure. B. Nitroprusside (Nitropress) - This medication is also not suitable for treating Cushing's disease, as it is used to lower blood pressure in severe hypertensive cases. C. Dexamethasone (Decadron) - This medication could potentially increase cortisol production in the body, worsening the condition instead of treating it. D. Demeclocycline (Tetracycline) - While this medication is not used specifically for treating Cushing's disease, it has been shown to reduce the impact of excessive cortisol by blocking its action on the kidneys. Therefore, this medication can be considered a potential treatment for Cushing's disease.

Selecting the most appropriate medication for treating Cushing's disease

Based on the functions of each medication and their potential impact on a person with Cushing's disease, the most appropriate medication to treat this condition is: D. Demeclocycline (Tetracycline)