LSAT Explanation PT 24, S3, Q6: Asthmagon was long considered the most

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following, if true, most weakens the case for the proposed ban of asthmagon? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Weaken question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is D. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

Let's first analyze the argument in the passage. The argument states that Asthmagon, a drug considered effective in alleviating asthma attacks, caused serious side effects in one out of five asthma patients in a study conducted in Rhiago between 1981 and 1987. Based on this, some doctors argue that Asthmagon should be banned as an anti-asthma drug. The conclusion of the argument is that Asthmagon should be banned, and the premise is the statistic about the side effects.

To better understand the argument, let's use a simple example. Imagine a food item that is considered very effective in providing energy, but in a study, it was found that one out of five people who consumed it experienced stomach aches. Based on this, some people argue that the food item should be banned. The conclusion here is that the food item should be banned, and the premise is the statistic about the stomach aches.

An "Evaluate" question for this argument could be: "Are there any specific conditions or factors that could predict the occurrence of side effects in patients taking Asthmagon?"

Now, let's discuss the question type and the answer choices. The question type is "Weaken," which means we need to find the answer choice that weakens the case for the proposed ban of Asthmagon.

a) This answer choice suggests that the number of asthma deaths increased during the study period in Rhiago, where Asthmagon was widely prescribed. This information strengthens the case for banning Asthmagon, as it implies a possible correlation between the drug and increased asthma deaths.

b) This answer choice tells us that many patients in the study had not previously taken a beta-2 agonist. This information is irrelevant to the argument, as it doesn't provide any information about the side effects or benefits of Asthmagon.

c) The fact that many physicians in Rhiago still prescribe Asthmagon despite growing concerns doesn't address the side effects issue or provide any reason why the drug shouldn't be banned.

d) Correct answer. This answer choice weakens the case for the proposed ban by stating that only patients with very high cholesterol counts suffered side effects after taking Asthmagon. This information suggests that the side effects could be predicted and avoided, making the drug potentially safe for patients without high cholesterol.

e) This answer choice provides another reason to ban Asthmagon, as it states that the drug can increase the severity of asthma attacks in some people by causing damage to heart tissues. This information strengthens the case for banning the drug, not weakening it.

In conclusion, the correct answer is D, as it weakens the case for the proposed ban of Asthmagon by suggesting that the side effects could be predicted and avoided in patients without high cholesterol.