South Dakota Medication Aide Practice Test

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are a class of medications commonly used to treat conditions such as glaucoma and certain metabolic alkalosis. The key reason for avoiding administration in patients with a history of allergy to sulfonamide antibiotics is that many carbonic anhydrase inhibitors share a similar chemical structure with sulfonamides. This structural similarity can lead to cross-reactivity in allergic reactions. Patients with such allergies may experience adverse effects, including severe allergic reactions, which can be life-threatening.

Considering the other options, a history of hypertension, diabetes, or being under 18 years old does not inherently preclude the administration of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Such medical conditions may require adjustment in treatment plans, but they do not specifically contraindicate the use of these medications. Therefore, the allergy to sulfonamide antibiotics stands out as a critical reason to avoid the use of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors in affected patients.