D.vii · Variability in Drug Response

Official V4 objective

Outline genetic variability, mechanisms, and significance of pharmacogenetic disorders. (e.g., malignant hyperthermia, porphyria, atypical cholinesterase, and disturbance of cytochrome function).

1 SAQ topic 2 SAQ appearances 1 VIVA station

Current · V5 (2025) → B3.vi

Written examination

SAQ history

2 appearances

Drug Response Variability — IV Anaesthesia

2 exam appearances

2011B Q02

Describe the factors contributing to inter-individual variability in drug response seen with an induction dose of an intravenous anaesthetic drug.

60%

2008B Q23

Describe the factors which contribute to inter-individual variability in drug respon seen with an induction dose of an intravenous anaesthetic drug.

—

Oral examination

VIVA history

1 station

2010A · VIVA 4
This station is concerned with the physiology and pharmacology related to the musculoskeletal system Candidates were asked to draw and label a sacromere, outline the physiological events relating to muscle contraction, length – tension relationship, muscle relaxants, malignant hyperthermia and dantrolene

25% successful

Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.