Which medication should be avoided in patients with Myasthenia Gravis?

Study for the Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) Qualifying Exam. Explore comprehensive flashcards and detailed multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations to prepare effectively. Achieve success with confidence!

In the context of Myasthenia Gravis, gentamicin is a medication that should be approached with caution, and in some cases, avoided. Myasthenia Gravis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by weakness in the skeletal muscles, leading to fluctuating muscle fatigue. Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that can potentially exacerbate muscle weakness due to its effects on neuromuscular transmission. Aminoglycosides may interfere with the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction and can worsen the symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis.

Conversely, the other medications among the options have different roles and effects. Pyridostigmine is a cholinesterase inhibitor used to improve strength in Myasthenia Gravis by increasing the amount of acetylcholine available at the neuromuscular junction. Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, is often used to manage the condition by reducing inflammation and autoimmunity. Similarly, rivastigmine, another cholinesterase inhibitor, is mainly used in Alzheimer's disease, but it can also help with muscle strength in Myasthenia Gravis. Therefore, gentamicin’s potential to worsen neuromuscular transmission issues makes

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