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136 Cards in this Set

  • Front
  • Back
cholinergic agents mimic what system?
PSNS
what is the neurotransmitter related to cholinergic drugs?
acetylcholine
bronchi/lungs response to muscarinic stimulation
increased secretion
constriction
cardiovascular response to muscarinic stimulation
blood vessels dilate
decreased HR
decreased BP
eye response to muscarinic stimulation
pupil constriction
decreased accomodation
GI response to muscarinic agents
increased tone, increased motility
relaxed sphincters
GU response to muscarinic agents
increased tone, increased motility
relaxed sphincters
glandular secretions response to muscarinic agents
increased intestinal, lacrimal, sweat, & salivary gland secretion
cholinergic drugs mechanism of action
"rest & digest"
stimulate the PSNS
pupils constrict
bronchi constrict
GI muscles contract
decreased HR
increased glandular secretion
vasodilation, decreased BP
decreased IOP
uses of direct-acting cholinergic agents
urinary retention & atony
neurogenic bladder
atrial dysrhythmias--helps regulate polarization & depolarization in conduction system
GI reflux disease-effect on motility
decreased IOP
contraindications for direct-acting cholinergic agents
GI/GU obstruction
bradycardia, heart block, CAD
hyperthyroidism
epilepsy
COPD, asthma
Parkinson's disease
adverse effects of direct acting cholinergic agents
cardiovascular: bradycardia, hypotension, conduction abnormalities (AV block, cardiac arrest)

CNS: headache, dizziness, confusion

respiratory: increased bronchial secretions, bronchospasms

GI: abdominal cramps, increased secretions, N/V

other: lacrimation, sweating, salivation, loss of ocular accomodation, miosis (constriction)
what is the antidote for direct acting cholinergic agents?
atropine sulfate is used to counteract the adverse effects of the drugs
what is bethanechol chloride (Urecholine) used for?
urinary retention & atony
paralytic ileus
nursing care/education for patients on bethanechol chloride (Urecholine)
assess urinary frequency/retention
monitor HR & rhythm
monitor RR & breath sounds
monitor I&O
assess bowel sounds
take before or after meals
mechanism of action for indirect-acting cholinergic agents
stimulate release of ACh at the receptor site resulting in more ACh availability at the receptor site. inhibits the action of acetylcholinesterase. Improves memory & learning
uses for indirect-acting cholinergic agents
MG
alzheimer's
post-op bladder distention
post-op paralytic ileus
glaucoma
contraindications for indirect-acting cholinergic agents
same as those for direct acting:
GI/GU obstruction
bradycardia, heart block, CAD
hyperthyroidism
epilepsy
COPD, asthma
Parkinson's disease
indirect-acting cholinergic agents used for alzheimer's disease include:
tacrine (Cognex): increases thinking ability. monitor liver enzymes (may increase), given QID.

donepezil (Atricept): mild-moderate alzheimers, dementia. R/T parkinson's, abnormal labs. given Q day.
nursing care/education for indirect-acting cholinergic agents used for alzheimer's disease
no cure
safety--meds may cause vertigo
indirect acting cholinergic agents used for MG
edrophonium chloride (Tensilon): IV-30-60 seconds, lasts 4-5 minutes. increased strength & muscle tone, used to diagnose MG.

pyrostigmine bromide (Mestinon): maintenance drug.

neostigmine (Prostigmine): symptom treatment. monitor VS (may decrease HR & BP)
nursing care/education for indirect-acting cholinergic agents used for MG
drugs taken for life
take on time
carry ID
report side effects
assess S&S of MG
assess breath sounds & quality of respirations
check HR & BP
I&O
check urinary frequency
assess abdominal cramping
drug interactions w/ cholinergic agents
anticholinergic drugs: atropine, antihistamines: decrease desired effects
myasthenia crisis
not enough cholinergic med is being administered
cholinergic crisis
too much med is being administered
anticholinergic agents mechanism of action
block or inhibit the actions of acetylcholine at the muscarinic receptors in the PSNS

acetylcholine is unable to bind to the receptor site & fails to produce a cholinergic effect
uses for anticholinergic agents
respiratory disorders (causes bronchodilation)
cardiac disease (low dose-bradycardia, higher dose-increased HR)
Parkinson's disease-decreases muscle rigidity, tremors, & spasticity
preoperatively-decreases secretions
bladder problems-decreases voiding, urge, & increases bladder capacity
contraindications for anticholinergic agents
narrow-angle glaucoma (increases IOP)
tachycardia (increases HR)
MG
BPH
MI
atropine sulfate
anticholinergic agent
blocks the muscarinic (cholinergic) receptors
used for preoperative control of secretions
treatment of bradycardia (high doses)

this is the antidote for cholinergic agents**
glycopyrrolate (Robinul)
anticholinergic agent
blocks receptor sites controlling salivation. used in PUD
tolterodine (Detrol)
anticholinergic agent
treats overactive bladder
decreases urgency & urge incontinence
nursing care/education for anticholinergic agents
ice chips
increase water intake
increase dietary fiber
sensitivity to light
precautions for elderly: R/F heat stroke, hyperthermia
meds used to treat hypersensitivity disorders & descriptions
albuterol: frequent use may cause dose-related adverse reaction--nausea, anxiety, palpitations, tremors, increased HR

salmeterol: long-acting maintenance treatment only

epinephrine: acts on alpha & beta adrenergic receptors; causes bronchodilation, increase contractility, BP, vasoconstriction... used for ACLS. acute asthma attack & anaphylaxis.

pseudoephedrine: stimulates alpha & beta adrenergic receptors causing vasoconstriction, decreased nasal congestion, decreased hyperemia, & decreased swelling

dobutamine: beta 1 receptors. increases CO by increasing contractility

dopamine: low doses-dilate blood vessels in brain, heart, kidney, mesentery. higher doses increase heart contractility

norepinephrine: vasoconstriction, increased BP
stimulation of alpha receptors cause:
vasoconstriction
relax intestinal muscle
contraction smooth muscle
stimulation of beta receptors cause:
relax smooth muscle (bronchi)
stimulate cardiac muscle
adrenergic drugs mechanism of action
stimulate the SNS
used to combat life-threatening disorders
acute asthma attacks
shock
cardiac arrest
allergic reactions
indications for adrenergic drugs
resp: treat asthma & bronchospasm
nasal: decongestants, vasoconstrictor to treat allergic rhinitis
ophthalmic: decrease IOP
cardiac: vasoconstriction to treat hypotension
common reactions for adrenergic drugs
palpitations
tachycardia
N/V
pallor, sweating, dizziness, weakness, tremor
HA, apprehension, nervousness, anxiety
therapeutic actions of adrenergic drugs
increase HR & BP
increase heart contractility
bronchdilation
increased respirations
vasoconstriction
indications for epinephrine (Adrenalin)
anaphylaxis & acute asthma ***1st line of defense in anaphylaxis
restore cardiac rhythm in cardiac arrest
open angle glaucoma
control surgical bleeding post op
prolong activity of local anesthetics
contraindications for epinephrine (Adrenalin)
known drug allergy
shock d/t trauma
narrow angle glaucoma
coronary insufficiency
labor
do not use w/ local anesthetics to the toes or fingers
nursing implications for epinephrine (Adrenalin)
cardiac & resp assessments
know effects of drug
patient education:
-take med as prescribed
-change position slowly
-check pulse for full 60 seconds
-report weight gain >2 lbs/24 hours
-avoid caffeine & ETOH
Histamine functions
nerve impulse transmission in CNS
dilation of capillaries
contraction of smooth muscle
stimulate gastric secretions
increased HR
H1 receptor (Histamine 1) & response to allergic reaction
mediates smooth muscle contraction & dilates capillaries

in response to allergic reaction: constrict smooth muscle, increases bodily secretions, vasodilates & increases cap permeability...fluid moves from vessels to soft tissues causing decreased BP, edema of soft tissues
antihistamines mechanism of action
decreases the physiologic effects of histamine

compete directly w/ histamine for specific histamine sites

antihistamines bind to receptor sites that cause irritation & inflammation
they move the histamine molecules from the surface of the cell & form a protective shield around the cell so that histamine cannot interact w/ the cell causing an allergic reaction
indications for H1 blockers
H1 causes smooth muscle contraction & cap dilation

nasal allergies, rhinitis, common cold, vertigo, motion sickness, parkinson's

sleep-causes drowsiness
common H1 blockers
diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
cholpheniramine (Chlor-trimeton)
fexofenadine (Allegra)
cetirizine (Zyrtec)
desloratadine (Clarinex)
loratadine (Claritin)

non sedating antihistamines: Zyrtec, Clarinex, Allegra, & Claritin
H1 blockers contraindications
known drug allergy
as the sole therapy for asthma attack
narrow angle glaucoma
cardiac disease
HTN
kidney disease
COPD
PUD
seizure disorder
BPH
pregnancy/lactation
impaired liver function
renal insufficiency
H1 blockers adverse effects
DROWSINESS
dry mucous membranes
vision changes
urination difficulties
constipation
diphenhydramine (Benadryl): action, routes, side effects, instructions
action: antagonizes effects of histamine at H1 receptor sites & relieves allergic symptoms caused by histamine release

routes: PO, IV, IM, topical

administer w/ food
may cause drowsiness

if used as sleep aid, take 20 mins prior to bed time **not used for elderly: may cause R/F falls, hangover effect
contraindications for diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
known drug allergy
pregnancy/lactation
acute asthma attacks
cardiac disease & cardiac dysrhythmias
driving
ETOH/CNS depressants
kidney disease, HTN, COPD
seizure disorder
immunosuppressant medication uses
primary: organ rejection
-prophylaxis to prevent rejection
-treat an ongoing rejection

often used in conjuction w/ corticosteroids

other uses: RA, MS
immunosuppressant mechanism of action
suppress T lymphocytes
immunosuppressant contraindications
known drug allergy
renal/hepatic failure
HTN
concurrent radiation therapy (decreases T cell counts)
pregnancy (urgent situations only)
common immunosuppresants & info
corticosteroids (coritsone, hydrocortizone, prednisone, methylprednisone, dexamethasone): adrenal cortex. many functions. route: inhalation, PO, IV. controls inflammatory response

Imuran (azathioprine): anti-rejection agent. blocks T cell proliferation. prophylaxis or organ rejection in conjuction w/ other meds. used for severe RA. routes-PO, IV. give w/ or after meals to decrease side effect of nausea. if you miss a dose, omit that dose.

Tacrolimus: prevent kidney/liver rejection

Sirolimus: kidney transplant rejection
Nursing implications & education regarding corticosteroid use
adverse effects are more common w/ increased dose & long-term therapy
may mask signs of infection
monitor I&O & daily weights
assess for adrenal insufficiency
can cause hyperglycemia in diabetic Pt
may increase cholesterol & lipids
cushing symptoms w/ prolonged therapy (facial hair & weakness)
do not skip or double dose
stopping suddenly may induce adrenal insufficiency
consult MD prior to vaccinations
notify MD of abd pain or tarry stools
monitor behavior changes
discuss effects on body image
avoid alcohol
dietary needs: increased protein, calcium, potassium & decreased Na & carbs

*****do not stop therapy abruptly
cyclosporine action, uses, route
inhibits activation of T cells
very potent
prevents renal, cardiac, hepatic transplant rejection
treats auto immune diseases that have not responded to other meds, including arthritis, psoriasis, IBS
***has a narrow therapeutic range: serum blood draws/monitoring

action: interferes w/ initiation of T-cell activity

routes: PO, IV
clycosporine nursing implications
monitor for S&S of reaction continuously during 1st 30 minutes of therapy & w/ each treatment for allergic reactions
(S&S of allergic reaction: facial flushing, uticaria, wheezing, dyspnea, & rash)

have O2 & epinephrine IV ready
oral forms kept at room temp
baseline BP
monitor BP q12 wks during 1st 3 months of therapy

***monitor labs: kidney, liver, increased K, increased lipids, increased uric acid levels

oral care to prevent gum diseases
administer liquid form in glass container--adheres to styrofoam
cyclosporine interactions
potentiates effects of diltiazem, verapamil, fluconazole, allopurinol, metaclopramide, amphoterin, & cimetidine

decreases effects of phenobarbital, riampin, & phenytoin

grapefruit juice: increases bioavailability of drug by 20-200% (potential for toxicity)
Muromonab-CD-3
AKA: orthoclone OKT3
only med indicated for reversal of graft rejection
disables t cells
similar to antibodies produced by the body
contraindicated in patients w/ fluid overload & hypersensitivity
IV only-bolus injection QD x 14 days
Muromonab-CD-3
AKA: orthoclone OKT3 nursing implications
assess renal function (BUN & Cr)
assess liver function
obtain baseline CV function & note history of dysrhythmias, CP, or HTN
CNS baseline
resp assessment for dyspnea or wheezing
monitor for risk for infection, injury, pain
increased risk for noncompliance d/t side effects
Immunomodulation agents definition & 3 major types
various subclasses of biologic modifying response drugs (BMRs) that specifically or non specifically enhance or reduce an immune response

3 major types: 1.) adjuvants
2.) immunostimulants
3.) immunosuppressants
Biologic response modifying drugs (BMR's)
alters the body's response to diseases such as cancer, autoimmune, anti-inflammatory, & infectious diseases
enhances/restores host's immune system defense against tumors
use of agents toxic to tumor cells, causing them to lyse or rupture, cytotoxic against cancer cells
modify the tumor's biology: prevent the cell from dividing & metastasizing
2 broad classes of BMR's
hematopoietic drugs
immunomodulating drugs
4 types of immunomodulating drugs
1.) interferons
2.) monoclonal antibodies
3.) interleukins
4.) miscellaneous IMDs
interferons: effects, indications, contraindications
antiviral & immunoregulatory properties
3 effects on immune system:
1.) restores function if it is impaired
2.) augment the immune system's ability to function as the body's self defense
3.) inhibits the immune system from working

indications: treatment of viral infections, various cancers, & some autoimmune disorders
adverse effects: flu like symptoms

contraindications:known allergies, hepatitis, liver failure, concurrent immunosuppressants, Karposi's sarcoma
nursing implications for interferons
monitor for S&S of depression
monitor Hgb, WB, Plts, LFT's
administer at the same time
rotate injection sites
store in fridge
SQ
flu-like symptoms may occur
risk of photosensitive reactions
may cause spontaenous abortion-women use BC
interleukins
called lymphokines
soluble proteins released from activated lymphocytes
anakinra-a pharmaceutical interleukin
symptom control of RA w/o response to other meds
contraindicated in allergy to med
injection only
nursing process for clients receiving immunomodulating agents
assess: research meds, complete hx & head to toe assessment. baseline VS & CBC
diagnosis: infection, lifestyle changes, fatigue, decrease ability to do ADL's

plan: goal to decrease inflammation

implement: give directly as prescribed, VS throughout therapy, may need pre-medication. may need to stay w/ Pt for 1st 30 mins

evaluation: decrease in growth of mass of tumor or lesion, reduction of symptoms R/T tumor or disease process
antiviral meds definition

antiretroviral meds definition
general term used for any drug that destroys viruses-either directly or indirectly-by suppressing their replication

antiretroviral agents is a more specific term for an antiviral drug that works against retroviruses such as HIV
when are antiretroviral (HIV) drugs effective?
only during viral replication... not during "dormant" stage
antiretroviral mechanism of action
alter viral reproduction... reverse transcriptase enzyme. promotes RNA converting to DNA in HIV
what are the 5 classes of antiretroviral agents?
1. non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI's)
2. nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI's)
3. protease inhibitors (PI's)
4. fusion inhibitors (FI's)
5. integrase inhibitors (II's)
antiretroviral agents mechanism of action
suppresses viral replication
interrupt viral replication; decreases viral load, decreases opportunistic infections, increases T cell count
what is HAART?
highly active antiretroviral therapy
multiple antiretroviral drugs combined
usually a combination of at least 3 meds
antiretroviral drugs indications
active HIV infection (increased viral load, decreased CD4 counts)
prophylactic therapy for known potential exposure to HIV
healthcare workers
high-risk infants
antiretroviral contraindications
known severe drug allergy or other intolerable toxicity
antiretroviral drugs adverse effects
need to modify drug dosage r/t adverse effects...
N/V, diarrhea, anorexia
headache, seizures
peripheral neuropathies
bone marrow suppression
rash
pancreatitis, increased LFT's, renal stones
fatigue
antiretroviral drugs interactions
there are many drug to drug interactions... oral contraceptives, etc
main goals of HAART drugs
1. viral suppression
2. immunologic restoration
3. improvement in quality of life
non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI's)
action: directly act on reverse transcriptase to stop HIV replication
therapeutic uses: primary HIV-1 infection; often used in combo w/ other antiretroviral meds to prevent med resistance
route: PO
side effects: rash (Steven Johnson); flu like symptoms; fatigue

**assess skin,treat rash w/ benadryl
nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI's)
action: reduces HIV symptoms by inhibiting DNA synthesis
therapeutic uses: treats HIV infection
route: PO, IV
side effects: bone marrow suppression, N/V, diarrhea, liver function

rectal bleeding, dehydration, take w/ food to decrease GI distress
protease inhibitors (PI's)
action: alter & inactive the HIV virus enzymes needed for HIV replication
therapeutic uses: treat HIV infection in combination w/ other antiretroviral meds to reduce med resistance
route: PO
side effects: hyperglycemia, hypersensitivity, N/V, increased lipids, thrombocytopenia, & leukopenia

*monitor glucose, increased thirst, increased U/O (R/F diabetes)
monitor for infection
fusion inhibitors (FI's)
action: blocks HIV virus from attaching to & entering the CDC4 T cell
therapeutic uses: treat HIV infection that is unresponsive to other antiretroviral meds
route: subq
side effects: localized injection site reaction, bacterial pneumonia, fever, chills, rash, hypotension

*rotate injection sites, monitor skin
*resp assessment prior to & during treatment
integrase inhibitors (II's)
action: inhibits the activity of the integrase enzyme, this preventing the integration of the virus into human DNA
therapeutic uses: used in treatment-experienced pts showing resistance to current therapy
route; PO
side effects: myopathy & rhabdomyolysis (breakdown of muscle--can lead to renal failure)
nursing process for Pts receiving treatment for HIV/AIDs
assess: full physical including medical hx, inquire about energy levels, weight loss, baseline VS
diagnosis: activity intolerance, R/F injury, knowledge deficit, anxiety, acute pain
implement: guidelines for med administration. med adherence, don't double dose
evaluate: delayed progression of HIV/AIDS & reduction in flu-like symptoms
what are the fungal opportunistic infections?
candidiasis & pneumocystic jirovecii
pneumocystic jirovecii
common med: Nebupent, Pentam
action: antiprotozoal
therapeutic uses: pneumonia caused by pneumocystis jirovecii organism
action: kills the organism that causes the infection
route: IV or IM
nursing considerations: assist w/ frequent movement to allow for uniform distribution of med
*****do not give med w/ e-mycin IV: fatal arrhythmias
monitor BP frequently
EKG
assess for S&S of hypoglycemia
monitor BUN, Cr
Candidiasis
common med: amphotericin B or ketoconazole
action: antifungal, acts on cell membrane to cause cell death
therapeutic uses: treatment of choice for systemic fungal infections
route: IV, central line recommended
monitor closely during test dose w/ frequent VS
CBC, Plts, BUN, Cr, & K
***life threatening hypokalemia may occur after each dose
d/t many adverse effects, Pts pretreated w/ acetaminophen, anti histamines, & antiemetics

*may cause renal damage, hydration
herpes simplex & cytomegalovirus
viral
common meds: acyclovir & ganciclovir
action: interrupts cell replication by preventing reproduction of viral DNA
therapeutic uses: acyclovir treats herpes simplex & varicella-zoster viruses
ganciclovir treats & prevents cytomegalovirus
route: acyclovir-PO, topical, IV
gancyclovir: PO, IV
monitor IV sites
infuse acyclovir slowly over 1 hr
ensure adequate hydration during & after infusion--nephrotoxocity
mycobacterium tuberculosis
bacterial opportunistic infection
common meds: rifampin
therapeutic uses: broad spectrum antibiotic, mycobacterium TB
action: inhibits protein synthesis
nursing implications: organ color to urine, saliva, sweat, tears
monitor LFTs
assess for anorexia, fatigue, malaise
no alcohol
accelerates metabolism of coumadin
evaluation: improved resp function, clear BS, no night sweats, increased appetite, maintenance of normal temp
Kaposi's sarcoma
opportunistic neoplasia
common meds: doxil, adrimycin
therapeutic uses: AIDS r/t Kaposi's sarcoma
route: IV only
very expensive
nursing implications: monitor VS & watch for acute cardiac toxicity
observe for acute infusion related reactions--anaphylaxis w/ 1st dose
administer anti-emetic 45 mins prior to dose
monitor CBC, BUN, Cr
wear gloves, mask, gown when handling med
monitor oral mucosa
urine may be red for 1-2 days
wear gloves when handling excretions for up to 5 days post admin
antiprotozoal meds
used for toxoplasmosis encephalitis, & cryptosporidosis
destroys or prevents development of protozoans in human hosts

common: metronidazole (Flagyl)
antimicrobial, bactericidal
side effects- GI, darkening urine, numbness/tingling, seizure activity-stop meds

contraindications: known allergy, liver/renal disease

take flagyl w/ food
cosyntropin
used in diagnosis of adrenal cortical insufficiency at adrenal cortex
treatment is based on what hormone is deficient once adrenal cortical insufficiency has been established
what are 2 growth hormones?
somatrem (Protropin)
somatropin (Humatrope)
used for hypopituitary dwarfism
growth hormones mechanism of action
skeletal & muscle growth
increases liver glyconeolysis
increases protein synthesis
indications for growth hormones
inadequate secretion of endogenous GH
drug-drug interactions for growth hormones
glucocorticoids-decrease effect of GH
thyroid hormones-GH decreases effects of thyroid meds
nursing assessment/teaching for growth hormones
cant have hypothyroidism
abuse potential-athletes, may cause acromegaly
monitor liver & kidneys
monitor drug therapy-growth rate of 2cm/yr
rotate admin sites
store in fridge-stable for 14 days
follow up MD visits q3-6 mos to document growth
must taper, not D/C abruptly
therapy limited to period before epiphyseal closeure
monitor for increased glucose levels
adverse effects of growth hormones
HA
hyperglycemia
hypothyroidism
name a growth hormone inhibitor & its mechanism of action
octreotide (Sandostatin): a synthetic GH inhibiting drug
action-inhibits GH release through negative feedback system
growth hormone inhibitor indication
acromegaly & metastatic cancer tumors
growth hormone inhibitor drug-drug interactions
cyclosporine increases risk of transplant rejection
ciproflaxin-prolongation of QT interval
nursing assessment/teaching for growth hormone inhibitor
monitor liver/kidney function
IV, IM, SC daily or weekly
baseline thyroid function tests
may need decreased dosing if underlying liver or kidney function
adverse effects for growth hormone inhibitors
fatigue, malaise, HA
glucose regulation difficulties
conduction abnormalities
dyspnea
vasopressin/desmopressin
vasopressin-physiologic functions of ADH
desmopressin-synthetic form of vasopressin
metabolic effects of vasopressin/desmopressin & indications
metabolic effects: causes vasoconstriction, causes H20 reabsorption

vasopressin indications: decreases thirst in DI, esophageal varices

desmopressin indications: control & prevent polyuria/polydipsia & dehydration in DI

*monitor I&O
drug-drug interactions for vasopressin/desmopressin
carbamazepine-increases desmopressin effects (oliguria)

lithium & alcohol-decreases desmopressin effects-increases U/O
nursing assessment/teaching for vasopressin/desmopressin
vasopressin given IV, IM, SC daily or weekly

desmopressin given intranasally
use cautiously in Pts w/ CAD, HTN, & inadequate circulation

small doses can precipitate an MI
vasopressin/desmopressin adverse effects & adverse reactions
adverse effects: nasal irritation from spray, & hypertension

reactions-angina, MI, HA
name 3 thyroids meds
levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Synthroid): preferred drug, synthroid is synthetic T4
liothyronine (Cytomel): synthetic T3
liotrix (Thyrolar):T3 T4 combo
thyroid meds indications
hypothyroidism & replace missing hormones
thyroid meds drug-drug interactions
increases effect of coumadin--increased R/F bleeding
decreases absorption of digitalis
nursing assessment/teaching for thyroid meds
take on empty stomach 1x day in AM--may cause insomnia
do not switch brand of drug
educate for S/S of hyperthyroidism
contraindications for thyroid meds
MI, hyperthyroidism, adrenal insufficiency
adverse effects for thyroid meds
cardiac dysrhythmias, HTN, tachycardia
name 2 antithyroid meds
methimazole (Tapazole): do not use in pregnancy, only alternative drug to PTU, rarely used

prophylthiouracil (PTU): may take 2+ weeks to see effects
only available as 50 mg PO tablet
implications for antithyroid meds
treat hyperthyroidism
nursing management/assessment for antithyroid meds
baseline vitals/I&O
frequent blood counts--watch for leukopenia & thrombocytopenia
liver function studies-bleeding
assess for adrenal insufficiency-thyroid preparations are contraindicated
nursing education for antithyroid meds
life-long replacement
do not used iodized salt, shellfish, or tofu
educate S&S of hypothyroidism
adverse effects for antithyroid meds
liver toxicity, hepatitis
drowsiness
N/V, diarrhea
nocturnal muscle cramps
analgesia
circadian rhythms
affect release of cortisol. cortisol levels are elevated in AM & low in PM
actions of glucocorticoids
anti-inflammatory
inhibit/control inflammation
BP maintenance: Na/ H20 retention
carb & protein metabolism
stress protection
name some glucocorticoids & indications
prednisone, methylprednisone

autoimmune disorders, neurologic disorders, ophthalmic inflammation, COPD, organ transplant to decrease immune response
glucocorticoids drug-drug interacions
increase potency of glucocorticoids: nsaids or ASA increase GI symptoms
K wasting diuretics resulting in severe hypocalcemia & hypokalemia

decrease potency:
-warfarin, anticholinesterase, cortisone, barbituates, phenytoin
nursing assessment/teaching for glucocorticoids
PO forms take w/ milk/food to decrease Gi upset
IV, IM, rectally, NOT SC
topic-follow instructions
nasal-clear passage before giving & rinse mouth after
avoid contact w/ infectious people. report fever, increased weakness, lethargy, sore throat to HCP
take same time q day
***do not d/c abruptly--Adrenal crisis

etoh, nsaids, asa increase GI symptoms
glucocorticoids side effects
hyperglycemia, mood swings, abnormal fat distribution, muscle wasting, delayed wound healing/bruising, weight gain, GI upset
glucocorticoids contraindications
cataracts, glaucoma, PUD, diabetes
name a mineralocorticoid
fludrocortisone (Florinef)
mineralocorticoids indications for use
addisons, distal tubule to reabsorb Na & affect the excretion of K, increase H20 reabsorption, increase BP for orthostatic hypotension
mineralocorticoids drug-drug interactions
thiazides or loop diuretics--hypo K
phenobarbital-increases florinef clearance
nursing assessment/teaching for mineralocorticoids
take w. milk or food
daily weights... >2 lb weight gain in 24 hrs call MD
mineralocorticoids adverse effects
heart failure, HTN, increased ICP--seizures
name an anti-adrenal med & mechanism of action
aminoglutethimide (Cytadren)-PO form only

action-obstructs the normal action/function of the adrenal cortex by inhibiting the conversion of cholesterol to adrenal corticosteroids
nursing assessment/teaching for anti-adrenal meds
monitor for HTN, HA, confusion, dizziness

***avoid high doses-fatal ventricular arrhythmias or CNS convulsions
anti-adrenal meds indications for use
cushing's syndrome
metastatic breast cancer
adrenal cancer