Adverse Effects
Who should you talk to when you experience an unwanted side effect of a medication?
Your doctor or pharmacist.
There are so many medications out there, your doctor will find the right medication for you that does not cause unwanted side effects!
When should you tell your doctor is you notice changes in mood, anxiety, or aggression after starting a medication?
Immediately!
True/False: Your doctor will be the only person involved in deciding what medication you are prescribed.
False. Your doctor should work with you to determine which medication is the best option for you.
How often should you take your medications?
As prescribed, everyday or prn (as needed)!
What is the most popular Halloween candy in the US?
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.
Name 2 medications that can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
Methylphenidate, Amphetamines, Strattera, and Viloxazine.
Clonidine and Guanfacine decrease blood pressure and heart rate.
Manage symptoms: limit caffeine, breath, lower dose.
Name 2 out of the 6 medications used for managing ADHD.
Methylphenidate, Amphetamines, Atomoxetine (strattera), Viloxazine, Clonidine, Guanfacine.
True/False: Clonidine and Guanfacine can be used for high blood pressure.
True.
Name one reason for non-adherence to medication.
Medication side effects, not working, cost, forget to take.
Eating a lot of what can make your skin turn orange?
Carrots. Carrots contain beta-carotene, which produces an orange color.
What can you do to manage constipation side effects?
1. Stay hydrated
2. Increase dietary fiber
3. Laxative: Senna, Docusate, Miralax
What are the three symptom categories for ADHD?
Inattention, Hyperactivity, Impulsivity.
False. Strattera and Viloxazine have the black box warning. Clonidine and Guanfacine do not have a black box warning.
When should you call the pharmacy when you are almost out of your medication?
Call the pharmacy when you have 4 days left of medications. If it is a medication that is commonly out-of-stock, like stimulants, call 7 days in advance.
How many times has it snowed in the Sahara desert?
Twice: 02/18/1979 & 12/19/2016.
How can you manage insomnia side effects?
1. Take the medication early in the morning.
2. Avoid afternoon doses of stimulants and Strattera/Viloxazine
Stimulants have how many different formulations "___- Acting"
3; long-acting, intermediate-acting, short-acting
True/False. You can stop taking clonidine and guanfacine easily without tapering off.
False.
Stopping clonidine and guanfacine without tapering down can cause rebound hypertension (increase blood pressure and heart rate).
What should you do if you forget to take your medication?
Take it as soon as you remember. If you take the medication multiple times a day, skip the missed dose if the next dose is in less than 4 hours.
What percentage of the ocean has been explored?
Only 5% of the ocean has been explored.
What are two ways you can manage decreased appetite because of stimulant medications and Strattera and Quelbree?
1. Eat a high calorie meal before taking the medication.
2. Eat small frequent meals throughout the day.
3. Set reminders to eat.
What is the most important warning (black box warning) for stimulant medications.
Abuse/Dependence.
Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about the abuse/dependence potential of the medication and do not take more than prescribed by your doctor.
True/False: Stimulant medications work faster than Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors and Alpha-2-adrenergic Agonists.
Stimulants: 3-7 days
Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors: Strattera: 6-12 wks, Viloxazine: 1 wk
Alpha-2-adrenergic Agonists: 2-4 wks
What are three changes you can make to remember to take your medication?
1. Implement it into your daily routine.
2. Set an alarm.
3. Use a pill organizer
4. Write yourself a note and place it somewhere you look everyday.
5. Set up pharmacy delivery or automatic refills.
What is the only mammal that is capable of flying?
A bat.