Syllabus · Current · V5 (2025) · Concepts in Pharmacology
B3 · Variability of Drug Response
B3.i · Adverse Drug Reactions
Classify and describe adverse drug reactions.
Written examination
SAQ history
Adverse Drug Reactions
2 exam appearances
Haloperidol vs Olanzapine vs Quetiapine
1 exam appearance
Compare and contrast the pharmacodynamics of haloperidol, olanzapine, and quetiapine, relevant to their use in intensive care, using the following headings:
a) primary mechanism of action (25% of marks).
b) extrapyramidal side effects (15% of marks).
c) other receptor mediated effects (30% of marks).
d) cardiac toxicity (15% of marks).
e) idiosyncratic adverse effects (15% of marks).
21.7%
Neuropharmacology — Serotonin Syndrome
1 exam appearance
Describe the physiological basis of the effects seen in the serotonin syndrome (80% marks). List the classes of drugs that may cause the serotonin syndrome (20% marks).
70%
Oral examination
VIVA history
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2026A · VIVA 3
Relevant examiner prompt
What are the adverse consequences of PPI administration?
Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.