Pharmacology · Autonomic Nervous System (Cholinergic, Anticholinergic, Sympathomimetics, Sympatholytics)

Phenylephrine, when used as a nasal decongestant spray, acts predominantly on which receptor subtype to produce vasoconstriction?

  • A β2 adrenergic receptors
  • B α2 adrenergic receptors
  • C Dopamine D1 receptors
  • D α1 adrenergic receptors
Correct answer: D. α1 adrenergic receptors

Explanation

Phenylephrine is a selective α1 adrenergic receptor agonist. Stimulation of α1 receptors on nasal mucosal blood vessels causes vasoconstriction, reducing congestion and secretions. α2 receptors are primarily presynaptic autoreceptors, β2 receptors mediate bronchodilation, and D1 receptors regulate renal vasodilation.

Reference: KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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