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Pharmacology for the ADC Part 1 Exam: High-Yield Topics, Traps & Study Tips

Pharmacology carries roughly 8% of the ADC Part 1 written exam — ≈22 of 280 questions. Below: the high-yield topics to master, the classic traps that cost candidates marks, and how to study this subject efficiently.

High-yield topics

TopicWhat to focus on
Analgesiaparacetamol/ibuprofen first-line, max doses, NSAID contraindications (asthma triad, renal, ulcer)
Antibioticsamoxicillin/metronidazole indications, true penicillin allergy alternatives, stewardship principles
Antibiotic prophylaxiscurrent cardiac indications (much narrower than candidates expect)
Local anaesthetic pharmacologyamides vs esters, vasoconstrictor cautions, max dose calculations
Anticoagulants & antiplateletswarfarin INR thresholds, DOAC timing, why we usually don't stop them
Medical emergencies drugsadrenaline for anaphylaxis (dose/route), GTN, salbutamol, glucose, midazolam
Drug interactionsNSAIDs+warfarin, metronidazole+alcohol/warfarin, adrenaline+beta-blockers

Classic exam traps

  • Giving prophylaxis for every murmur — only specific high-risk cardiac conditions qualify under current guidance
  • IM adrenaline dose for anaphylaxis: 0.5 mg (0.5 mL of 1:1000) for adults — commonly fumbled under pressure
  • Prescribing antibiotics for irreversible pulpitis — it needs operative treatment, not amoxicillin
  • Ibuprofen in aspirin-sensitive asthma or third-trimester pregnancy

How to study Pharmacology

  • Learn Australian-style first-line choices (Therapeutic Guidelines logic) rather than home-country habits
  • Emergency drug/dose/route flashcards — these questions are pure recall and pure marks

The exam tests this subject through clinical vignettes, so practise it the same way — scenario-based MCQs with explanations, not isolated fact recall. Start with the free readiness check below to see exactly where you stand in pharmacology, then see the full exam format guide and the 8-week study plan.

Where do you actually stand?

30 questions across all 10 subjects. Free, instant, no credit card.

PassADC is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Australian Dental Council. Exam details change — always confirm current format and fees at adc.org.au.