09-16-2006, 04:46 PM
A 65-year-old woman with a known history of coronary artery disease presents to the emergency department complaining of severe palpitations and lightheadedness. Her blood pressure is 75/50 mm Hg, and her pulse is 300/min. Her electrocardiogram indicates that she is in ventricular tachycardia. In order to control this rhythm, her physician administers lidocaine intravenously. Which of the following is the mechanism of action of this agent?
A. Inhibits L-type calcium channels
B. Prolongs action potential
C. Reduces cyclic AMP
D. Shortens action potential
E. Slows atrial and ventricular conduction velocity
A. Inhibits L-type calcium channels
B. Prolongs action potential
C. Reduces cyclic AMP
D. Shortens action potential
E. Slows atrial and ventricular conduction velocity