Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ALAT Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and detailed explanations. Boost your readiness and confidence!

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Which type of parasiticide is effective against pinworms, heartworms, or tapeworms?

Anthelmintic
Antibiotic
Antiseptic
Insecticide

The correct answer is: Anthelmintic

Anthelmintics are a specific class of drugs designed to eliminate parasitic worms, also known as helminths. This category is particularly effective against various types of intestinal worms, including pinworms and tapeworms, as well as other systemic parasites such as heartworms. The action of anthelmintics varies; some work by paralyzing the worms, while others interfere with their metabolism or block their ability to absorb nutrients, leading to their eventual death and expulsion from the host. The other classes mentioned, such as antibiotics, are primarily aimed at combatting bacterial infections and would be ineffective against parasitic worms. Antiseptics are used to prevent infection in wounds or surfaces but do not target parasitic organisms. Insecticides are formulated to kill insects and are not appropriate for treating helminth infections. Therefore, the specificity of anthelmintics for treating worm infections makes this choice the correct one for the question.