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Quizzes > Health & Medicine > Human Anatomy & Medicine

Endocrine System Pharmacology MCQ Quiz

Think you can ace these multiple choice questions on the endocrine system? Start the quiz!

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
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Get ready to tackle endocrine system mcq questions with our engaging, free online challenge. This endocrine system quiz uses targeted endocrine multiple choice questions and detailed multiple choice questions on endocrine system to test your knowledge of glands, hormones and common disorders. Whether you're reviewing for NCLEX or sharpening pharmacology endocrine quiz skills, these endocrine system multiple choice questions deliver a practical, interactive learning boost. Join peers exploring tricky endocrinology mcqs , gauge your strengths, and start mastering endocrine concepts today!

Which gland is primarily responsible for secreting insulin?
Pancreas
Adrenal gland
Pituitary gland
Thyroid gland
Insulin is produced by the beta cells of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans. It plays a central role in glucose homeostasis by facilitating cellular uptake of glucose. Dysfunction or loss of these beta cells leads to diabetes mellitus. Pancreatic Hormones
What is the primary hormone secreted by the thyroid gland?
Thyroxine (T4)
Cortisol
Insulin
Glucagon
The thyroid gland synthesizes and secretes thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), with T4 being the major product. These hormones regulate metabolic rate, growth, and development. Most T4 is converted to the more active T3 in peripheral tissues. Endocrine Society
Which hormone increases blood calcium levels?
Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
Calcitonin
Insulin
Aldosterone
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is secreted by the parathyroid glands in response to low serum calcium. It raises calcium levels by increasing bone resorption, enhancing renal calcium reabsorption, and promoting activation of vitamin D. Calcitonin, in contrast, lowers blood calcium by inhibiting osteoclast activity. Parathyroid Hormone
Steroid hormones typically act through which type of receptor?
Intracellular nuclear receptor
G protein–coupled receptor
Receptor tyrosine kinase
Ligand-gated ion channel
Steroid hormones are lipophilic and diffuse through cell membranes to bind intracellular receptors. The hormone–receptor complex then translocates to the nucleus to modulate gene transcription. This mechanism differs from peptide hormones, which typically use membrane-bound receptors. Steroid Hormone Action
Which hormone is responsible for regulating water retention in the kidneys?
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
Aldosterone
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
Luteinizing hormone (LH)
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, is secreted by the posterior pituitary and increases water reabsorption in the renal collecting ducts. It acts via V2 receptors to insert aquaporin channels. Aldosterone affects sodium retention more indirectly on water balance. Vasopressin
What is the main stimulus for insulin release from pancreatic ?-cells?
High blood glucose concentration
Low blood glucose concentration
High cortisol levels
High epinephrine levels
Glucose enters ?-cells via GLUT2 transporters, is metabolized, and raises ATP/ADP ratio. This closes ATP-sensitive K? channels, depolarizes the cell, and triggers calcium influx and insulin exocytosis. Other factors modulate but glucose is primary. Insulin Secretion
Which zone of the adrenal cortex primarily secretes cortisol?
Zona fasciculata
Zona glomerulosa
Zona reticularis
Adrenal medulla
The adrenal cortex is divided into three zones: glomerulosa (aldosterone), fasciculata (cortisol), and reticularis (androgens). Zona fasciculata cells respond to ACTH to produce glucocorticoids. Medulla produces catecholamines. Adrenal Cortex
Primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease) is characterized by deficiency of which hormone?
Cortisol
Antidiuretic hormone
Insulin
Growth hormone
Addison’s disease results from autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex, leading to decreased cortisol and often aldosterone. Deficiency of cortisol causes weight loss, hypotension, and hyperpigmentation. ADH and insulin are unaffected. Addison’s Disease
Which hormone is responsible for the milk ejection reflex?
Oxytocin
Prolactin
Estrogen
Progesterone
Oxytocin, released from the posterior pituitary, causes contraction of myoepithelial cells around mammary alveoli to eject milk. Prolactin stimulates milk production but not ejection. Estrogen and progesterone prepare the breast but do not mediate ejection. Oxytocin
What hormone is secreted by the pineal gland?
Melatonin
Serotonin
Growth hormone
Thyroid-stimulating hormone
Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness and regulates circadian rhythms. Serotonin is a precursor but not the main pineal secretion. GH and TSH are pituitary hormones. Melatonin
What is the primary mechanism of action of metformin in type 2 diabetes?
Decreases hepatic gluconeogenesis
Stimulates pancreatic insulin release
Increases intestinal glucose absorption
Enhances lipolysis in adipose tissue
Metformin primarily reduces hepatic glucose production by inhibiting mitochondrial glycerophosphate dehydrogenase and activating AMPK. It does not stimulate insulin secretion, which lowers the risk of hypoglycemia. It also increases insulin sensitivity peripherally. Metformin Mechanism
Leuprolide is an analog of which hormone?
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)
Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH)
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)
Growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH)
Leuprolide is a synthetic analog of GnRH that initially stimulates, then downregulates GnRH receptors in the pituitary, reducing LH and FSH release. It is used in prostate cancer, endometriosis, and precocious puberty. TRH, CRH, and GHRH analogs have different clinical uses. Leuprolide
Which drug is a dopamine D2 agonist used in the treatment of prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas?
Bromocriptine
Leuprolide
Ketoconazole
Spironolactone
Bromocriptine is a dopamine D2 receptor agonist that inhibits prolactin release from the pituitary. It is first-line therapy for prolactinomas. Leuprolide acts on GnRH receptors, ketoconazole is an antifungal with steroidogenesis inhibition, and spironolactone is an aldosterone antagonist. Prolactinoma Treatment
Fludrocortisone is a synthetic analog primarily of which endogenous hormone?
Aldosterone
Cortisol
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
Androstenedione
Fludrocortisone has potent mineralocorticoid activity similar to aldosterone, promoting sodium retention and potassium excretion. It has limited glucocorticoid effects compared to cortisol. It is used in primary adrenal insufficiency and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Fludrocortisone
Propylthiouracil (PTU) treats hyperthyroidism by which mechanism?
Inhibits thyroid peroxidase and peripheral T4 to T3 conversion
Stimulates TSH release
Blocks TSH receptor
Inhibits iodide uptake into thyroid
PTU inhibits thyroid peroxidase, blocking iodination and coupling of tyrosine residues in thyroglobulin. It also inhibits peripheral deiodinase, reducing T4 to active T3 conversion. Methimazole lacks the deiodinase effect. Propylthiouracil
Long-term exogenous glucocorticoid therapy can lead to which of the following syndromes?
Cushing’s syndrome
Addison’s syndrome
Hypothyroidism
Gigantism
Chronic administration of high-dose glucocorticoids mimics endogenous cortisol excess, causing Cushingoid features such as central obesity, moon face, and osteoporosis. Abrupt withdrawal can lead to adrenal insufficiency. Addison’s is cortisol deficiency. Iatrogenic Cushing’s Syndrome
Which of the following is a GLP-1 receptor agonist used in type 2 diabetes management?
Exenatide
Insulin lispro
Metformin
Glyburide
Exenatide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, and slows gastric emptying. It is not an insulin analogue like lispro, nor a biguanide or sulfonylurea. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Tamoxifen is classified as which of the following?
Selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)
Ethinylestradiol
Progesterone analog
Testosterone derivative
Tamoxifen acts as an estrogen antagonist in breast tissue but agonist in bone and uterus, classifying it as a SERM. Ethinylestradiol is an estrogen, not selective. Progesterone analogs and testosterone derivatives have different receptor targets. Tamoxifen
What is the mechanism of action of octreotide?
Somatostatin receptor agonist
Growth hormone receptor agonist
Prolactin receptor antagonist
ADH receptor antagonist
Octreotide is a synthetic analog of somatostatin that binds somatostatin receptors to inhibit GH, TSH, insulin, and various GI hormones. It is used in acromegaly and carcinoid syndrome. It does not act on prolactin or ADH receptors. Octreotide
During acute stress, which hormone shows a marked increase?
Cortisol
Insulin
Estrogen
Calcitonin
Acute stress activates the HPA axis, leading to increased CRH, ACTH, and cortisol secretion. Cortisol mobilizes energy stores and modulates immune responses. Insulin, estrogen, and calcitonin are not primary stress response hormones. Stress and HPA Axis
The growth hormone receptor belongs to which receptor family?
Cytokine receptor family (JAK–STAT)
Receptor tyrosine kinase
G protein–coupled receptor
Ligand-gated ion channel
The growth hormone receptor is part of the cytokine receptor superfamily and signals via JAK2–STAT5 pathways. It does not possess intrinsic tyrosine kinase activity but recruits JAK kinases. GPCRs and ion channels use different signaling mechanisms. GH Receptor
Spironolactone exerts its diuretic effect by which mechanism?
Competitive antagonist at mineralocorticoid receptors
Inhibition of renal carbonic anhydrase
Blockade of sodium channels in the loop of Henle
Stimulation of ADH release
Spironolactone binds to aldosterone (mineralocorticoid) receptors in the distal nephron, preventing sodium retention and potassium excretion. It does not inhibit carbonic anhydrase or block loop sodium channels. It antagonizes the effects of aldosterone directly. Spironolactone
Metyrapone is used to test adrenal function by inhibiting which enzyme?
11?-hydroxylase
17?-hydroxylase
21-hydroxylase
Aromatase
Metyrapone blocks 11?-hydroxylase, reducing cortisol synthesis and causing accumulation of 11-deoxycortisol. This triggers an increase in ACTH in a normal HPA axis. It does not inhibit 17?- or 21-hydroxylase directly. Metyrapone Test
Which thyroid hormone acts primarily as a prohormone requiring conversion to its active form?
Thyroxine (T4)
Triiodothyronine (T3)
Calcitonin
Thyroglobulin
T4 is secreted in larger amounts and is converted peripherally to the more active T3 by deiodinases. T3 is the biologically active hormone that binds nuclear receptors. Calcitonin and thyroglobulin have different roles. Thyroid Hormone Activation
Pegvisomant is an antagonist at which receptor?
Growth hormone receptor
Prolactin receptor
Insulin receptor
GnRH receptor
Pegvisomant is a GH receptor antagonist that prevents receptor dimerization and downstream signaling. It is used to treat acromegaly in patients unresponsive to somatostatin analogs. It does not interact with prolactin, insulin, or GnRH receptors. Pegvisomant
Ketoconazole lowers cortisol levels by inhibiting which enzyme in adrenal steroidogenesis?
17?-hydroxylase (and other P450s)
3?-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase
21-hydroxylase
Aromatase
Ketoconazole inhibits multiple cytochrome P450 enzymes, especially 17?-hydroxylase and 17,20-lyase, reducing cortisol and androgen synthesis. It is used off-label for Cushing’s syndrome. It does not primarily inhibit 3?-HSD or aromatase. Ketoconazole and Steroidogenesis
Which drug is recombinant human IGF-1 used to treat severe primary IGF-1 deficiency (Laron syndrome)?
Mecasermin
Somatropin
Octreotide
Bromocriptine
Mecasermin is recombinant human IGF-1 used for growth failure in patients with GH receptor insensitivity (Laron syndrome). Somatropin is recombinant GH, which is ineffective in receptor defects. Octreotide and bromocriptine have different targets. Mecasermin
Bisphosphonates primarily prevent bone resorption by inhibiting which cells?
Osteoclasts
Osteoblasts
Chondrocytes
Osteocytes
Bisphosphonates bind to hydroxyapatite in bone and are ingested by osteoclasts during resorption. They disrupt the mevalonate pathway in osteoclasts, inducing apoptosis and reducing bone turnover. Osteoblasts and chondrocytes are not primary targets. Bisphosphonates
Denosumab exerts its effect by targeting which molecule?
RANKL
Osteoprotegerin
Calcitonin receptor
Parathyroid hormone
Denosumab is a monoclonal antibody that binds RANKL, preventing it from activating RANK on osteoclasts. This inhibits osteoclast formation and bone resorption. Osteoprotegerin is the endogenous decoy receptor. Denosumab
What is the approximate elimination half-life of levothyroxine (T4)?
7 days
1 hour
1 day
30 days
Levothyroxine has a long half-life of about 7 days, allowing once-daily dosing and stable serum levels. Its prolonged duration reflects strong binding to plasma proteins. Rapid-acting hormones would have much shorter half-lives. Levothyroxine Pharmacokinetics
In 21-hydroxylase deficiency, which steroid precursor accumulates and is used as a diagnostic marker?
17-Hydroxyprogesterone
11-Deoxycortisol
Aldosterone
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
21-Hydroxylase deficiency blocks conversion of 17-hydroxyprogesterone to 11-deoxycortisol, causing buildup of 17-OHP. This excess is shunted into androgen synthesis, leading to virilization. Measurement of 17-OHP is standard for newborn screening. 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency
Ramelteon is a sedative-hypnotic that selectively agonizes which receptors?
MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors
GABA-A receptors
5-HT1A receptors
Dopamine D2 receptors
Ramelteon binds selectively to MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, regulating the sleep–wake cycle. It does not act on GABA, serotonin, or dopamine receptors, differentiating it from benzodiazepines and SSRIs. Ramelteon
Pasireotide is a somatostatin analog with highest affinity for which receptor subtype?
SSTR5
SSTR2
SSTR3
SSTR4
Pasireotide binds multiple somatostatin receptor subtypes but has highest affinity for SSTR5, making it effective in Cushing’s disease by reducing ACTH. Octreotide favors SSTR2. Targeting SSTR5 improves control of corticotroph tumors. Pasireotide
Which statement best describes the pharmacokinetics of alendronate?
Low oral bioavailability and long skeletal half-life
High oral bioavailability and short half-life
Primarily metabolized by hepatic CYP enzymes
Extensively bound to adipose tissue
Alendronate has very low oral bioavailability (<1%) and binds strongly to bone mineral, where it remains for years. It is not metabolized by the liver and does not accumulate in adipose tissue. Dosing recommendations reflect its unique kinetics. Alendronate Pharmacokinetics
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Study Outcomes

  1. Identify Key Endocrine Glands -

    Recognize the structure and location of major endocrine glands, enhancing your ability to answer endocrine system mcq questions accurately. This foundational knowledge supports quick recall during assessments.

  2. Explain Hormone Mechanisms of Action -

    Understand how different hormones interact with receptors and signal transduction pathways, preparing you to tackle endocrine multiple choice questions with confidence. Clear comprehension of these mechanisms aids in differentiating pharmacological effects.

  3. Differentiate Classes of Endocrine Drugs -

    Distinguish between hormone analogues, antagonists, and enzyme inhibitors used in endocrine therapy. This will help you select the correct drug class in multiple choice questions on endocrine system disorders.

  4. Apply Pharmacological Principles to Endocrine Multiple Choice Questions -

    Utilize your understanding of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion to choose the best answer. Applying these principles ensures accurate interpretation of clinical scenarios.

  5. Analyze Clinical Presentations of Endocrine Disorders -

    Interpret signs and symptoms to identify underlying hormonal imbalances. This analytical skill is crucial for answering complex endocrine system multiple choice questions.

  6. Evaluate Treatment Strategies for Endocrine Conditions -

    Assess the efficacy and safety profiles of drugs used in diabetes, thyroid disorders, and adrenal insufficiency. This evaluation helps you determine the most appropriate therapy in mcq on endocrine system quizzes.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Hypothalamic - Pituitary Axis Regulation -

    The hypothalamus releases TRH, CRH, GnRH and others to control anterior pituitary hormones (FLAT PiG mnemonic: FSH, LH, ACTH, TSH, Prolactin, GH). Negative feedback from end hormones (e.g., cortisol inhibiting CRH/ACTH) maintains homeostasis. Understanding this axis helps you tackle endocrine system mcq questions on release patterns and feedback loops.

  2. Hormone Classification & Receptor Types -

    Hormones are grouped into peptide (insulin), steroid (cortisol) and amine (thyroxine) classes, each with distinct solubility and receptor localization. Peptides use membrane receptors and second messengers (cAMP), while steroids bind nuclear receptors to modulate gene transcription. Remember "SLiM": Steroid - Lipid soluble; Membrane - peptide/amines.

  3. Key Endocrine Drug Classes & Mechanisms -

    Common endocrine drugs include insulin analogs (activate IR kinase), sulfonylureas (close K+ channels to boost insulin), levothyroxine (T4 receptor agonist) and glucocorticoids (GR activation). For example, metformin reduces hepatic gluconeogenesis via AMPK activation (Goodman & Gilman's). Recognizing these actions is crucial for multiple choice questions on endocrine pharmacology.

  4. Feedback Loops & Clinical Correlations -

    Negative feedback prevails (e.g., high cortisol suppresses ACTH), while oxytocin's positive feedback drives labor. Distinguishing long”loop vs short”loop feedback clarifies endocrine multiple choice questions on dynamic responses. Clinical cases like Cushing's vs Addison's illustrate how loop disruptions manifest in disease.

  5. Integrative Physiology & Mnemonics for MCQs -

    Link hormone interplay - insulin vs glucagon in glycemic control, or PTH/Ca2+ homeostasis - to disease states like diabetes or hyperparathyroidism. Use mnemonics (e.g., "PIGG" for Parathyroid, Insulin, Glucagon, Glucocorticoids) to recall key regulators. This strategy, backed by university endocrinology modules, boosts confidence on endocrine system multiple choice questions.

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