Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

How does Ibuprofen cause indigestion?

1. By increasing gastric acid secretion

2. By inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis

3. By promoting gastric motility

4. By reducing acid neutralization

The correct answer is: By inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis

Ibuprofen causes indigestion primarily by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandins play a critical role in the gastrointestinal system, primarily by promoting the production of mucus and bicarbonate, which help protect the gastric lining from acid damage. When ibuprofen inhibits the synthesis of these protective prostaglandins, it reduces the mucosal defense mechanisms in the stomach. This can lead to increased susceptibility to the corrosive effects of gastric acid, resulting in discomfort, irritation, and ultimately indigestion. The other options describe different mechanisms that are not directly related to how ibuprofen induces indigestion. For example, while increased gastric acid secretion and reduced acid neutralization can contribute to gastric discomfort, these processes are not the primary action of ibuprofen. Additionally, promoting gastric motility generally refers to how quickly food moves through the stomach and intestines, which is not a primary effect of ibuprofen. As such, these alternate mechanisms do not accurately capture the way ibuprofen leads to indigestion.