Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

Which drug class can help suppress the vestibular apparatus of the medulla that gets triggered by movement?

1. Antihistamines

2. Anticholinergics

3. Neuroleptics

4. Seriously sedative drugs

The correct answer is: Anticholinergics

The correct choice for suppressing the vestibular apparatus of the medulla that gets triggered by movement is antihistamines. Antihistamines, particularly those that are classified as first-generation agents such as diphenhydramine and meclizine, have a well-documented efficacy in managing motion sickness and related vestibular disorders. These medications work by blocking H1 histamine receptors in the central nervous system and can reduce the excitability of the vestibular system, thereby alleviating symptoms such as nausea and dizziness associated with motion. They also exhibit some anticholinergic properties, which can enhance their effectiveness in managing motion-induced symptoms. While anticholinergics can also impact vestibular function, they are typically used more for prophylaxis against motion sickness rather than as primary agents for vestibular suppression. Neuroleptics are primarily used for their antipsychotic effects and may have some antiemetic properties, but they are not typically employed for managing vestibular symptoms specifically induced by motion. Similarly, seriously sedative drugs may impair overall neurological function but aren't specifically aimed at suppressing vestibular activity. Thus, antihistamines are the most effective and commonly used class of drugs for this purpose.