Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination (BCSE) Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success

Methamphetamines are recognized for their potential role in the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) based on their pharmacological effects and impact on cardiovascular health. The use of methamphetamines leads to increased sympathetic stimulation, vasoconstriction, and can induce vascular remodeling, all of which can contribute to elevated pulmonary artery pressures. Chronic use of these stimulants may adversely affect pulmonary vasculature, leading to increased resistance and subsequent PAH.

In contrast, the other choices do not have a well-established association with causing PAH. While beta-blockers and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are primarily used to manage cardiovascular and mood disorders, respectively, they do not typically lead to significant changes in pulmonary vascular dynamics. Thiazolidinediones have some metabolic and cardiovascular implications but are not directly linked to the onset of PAH in the same way as methamphetamines. Thus, recognizing the specific connection between methamphetamines and PAH is crucial for understanding potential drug-induced complications in patients.