Pharmacology · single question

What should you NOT use with Bell's Palsy treatment?

  1. Pilocarpine
  2. Corticosteroids
  3. Antiviral medications
  4. Eye lubricants
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Correct answer: A. Pilocarpine

BELL'S PALSY treatment includes: Corticosteroids (prednisolone — reduces inflammation), Antivirals (acyclovir — if HSV suspected), Eye protection/lubricants (since eye closure is impaired). PILOCARPINE is a CHOLINERGIC agonist that increases secretions (saliva, tears, sweat) and CONSTRICTS the pupil. In Bell's palsy with impaired eye closure, you do NOT want increased lacrimation or miosis; more importantly, pilocarpine would not help and could cause issues. Pilocarpine is contraindicated. A is correct.

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