Massachusetts Pharmacy Technician License Practice Test

Which medication is exempt from the PPPA locking requirements?

1. Digoxin

2. Estradiol

3. Nitroglycerin

4. Albuterol

The correct answer is: Nitroglycerin

The exemption of certain medications from the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA) locking requirements is based on the necessity for the medication to be accessible to patients in specific circumstances. Nitroglycerin is exempt from these requirements primarily because it is often prescribed for patients with cardiovascular conditions and is used in emergency situations to relieve angina attacks. Accessibility is crucial in emergencies, as patients may need to reach for their nitroglycerin quickly to alleviate chest pain. If these tablets or sprays were in child-resistant packaging, it could pose a risk to patients needing immediate relief, potentially leading to serious health consequences. In contrast, digoxin and estradiol are often prescribed for chronic conditions but do not have the same emergency requirement for immediate access. Albuterol, while a quick-relief medication for asthma, is still generally required to have child-resistant packaging to prevent accidental ingestion by children, thus maintaining the safety provided by PPPA. The decision to exempt nitroglycerin reflects a balance between safety and the critical need for rapid access to lifesaving medications.