Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

The correct answer highlights that organophosphates and some animal flea dips can lead to potentiation when patients take parasympathomimetics. This is largely due to the mechanism of action of organophosphates, which inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Acetylcholinesterase is responsible for breaking down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the parasympathetic nervous system. When this enzyme is inhibited, there is an accumulation of acetylcholine at synaptic junctions, which can enhance the effects of parasympathomimetics, leading to increased stimulation of the parasympathetic pathway. In contrast, the other options do not share a similar mechanism or effect: - Common kitchen products typically do not interact with the parasympathetic system in this way. - Antibiotics generally do not potentiate the effects of parasympathomimetics; their primary focus is on bacterial inhibition. - Ocular lubricants are primarily used to alleviate dry eyes and do not have the potential to influence neurotransmitter levels or enzyme activity related to acetylcholine. Understanding the impact of organophosphates on the cholinergic system is key to recognizing how certain substances can enhance the effects of paras