Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Practice Exam

Which medication is considered a high-alert medication?

1. Methotrexate

2. Esomeprazole

3. Polyethylene glycol

4. Docusate

The correct answer is: Methotrexate

Methotrexate is classified as a high-alert medication due to its potential for causing significant harm if used incorrectly. It is an antineoplastic agent commonly utilized in the treatment of various cancers and autoimmune diseases. The dosing of methotrexate requires careful monitoring and precise calculation, as both underdosing and overdosing can have severe consequences for patient health. For example, an overdose can lead to severe toxicity, potentially resulting in life-threatening conditions such as bone marrow suppression, liver damage, or pulmonary toxicity. High-alert medications are recognized for their increased risk of causing injury when used inappropriately, and the management of these medications necessitates heightened awareness and specific protocols within pharmacies and healthcare settings. This includes procedures for double-checking orders, ensuring proper handling and storage, and counseling patients about potential side effects and the importance of adherence to prescribed regimens. In contrast, esomeprazole, polyethylene glycol, and docusate do not carry the same high risks of serious harm when inadvertently mismanaged, which distinguishes methotrexate as a high-alert medication.