U2.i · Endocrine Pharmacology

Official V4 objective

Understand the pharmacology of glucocorticoids.

5 SAQ topics 6 SAQ appearances 2 VIVA stations

Current · V5 (2025) → L2.i

Written examination

SAQ history

6 appearances

Corticosteroids — General Pharmacology

1 exam appearance

2011B Q24

Describe the pharmacology of corticosteroid drugs

40%

Corticosteroids — Hydrocortisone

2 exam appearances

2020B Q03

Describe the pharmacology of hydrocortisone

69%

2017A Q10

Describe the pharmacology of hydrocortisone.

54%

Corticosteroids — Prednisone

1 exam appearance

2022B Q20

Describe the pharmacokinetics of prednisone (50% marks). List the cardiovascular, renal, metabolic, haematological and immunological effects of prednisone (50% marks)

40%

Hormones — Peptide vs Steroid

1 exam appearance

2012B Q24

Compare and contrast peptide and steroid hormones. Give four examples of each.

13.7%

Hydrocortisone vs Methylprednisolone vs Dexamethasone

1 exam appearance

2010B Q11

Compare and contrast hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone and dexamethasone.

40%

Oral examination

VIVA history

2 stations

2024A · Day 1 · VIVA 8
This VIVA will examine adrenal physiology and pharmacology. How is ACTH secretion controlled?

Pass rate not reported
2023A · Day 2 · VIVA 4
This VIVA will examine adrenergic and steroid pharmacology. Describe the beta-adrenergic receptors and how signal transduction occurs?

Pass rate not reported

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