| Date | May 2011 | Marks available | 2 | Reference code | 11M.3.sl.TZ2.D1 |
| Level | SL | Paper | 3 | Time zone | TZ2 |
| Command term | Explain | Question number | D1 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Aspirin and paracetamol (acetaminophen) are mild analgesics.
Morphine is a strong analgesic which is administered parenterally.
Explain why it is dangerous to take aspirin when ethanol has also been consumed.
State the meaning of the term parenteral.
Explain how a strong analgesic such as morphine prevents pain.
The structures of morphine and diamorphine (heroin) are shown in Table 20 of the Data Booklet. State the name of a functional group present in diamorphine (heroin) but not in morphine.
Markscheme
increased risk of stomach bleeding;
administered by injection;
(temporarily) bond to receptor sites in the brain/CNS;
prevent the transmission of pain impulses;
ester;
Examiners report
Most candidates were very familiar with analgesics and the synergistic effect of ethanol and aspirin.
Many of the weaker candidates thought that parenteral administration of morphine required supervision by parents or authorities. Assessment statement D.1.3 outlines the meaning of this technique.
Many candidates gave good descriptions of how morphine prevents pain.
