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 if you notice worsening in mood, anxiety, or aggression after starting a medication?
Immediately!
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, every day or PRN (as needed)!
What is the most popular Halloween candy in the US?
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
Name 2 medications used for ADHD 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, lower dose.
Name 2 out of the 6 medications used for managing ADHD.
Methylphenidate, Amphetamines, Atomoxetine (Strattera), Viloxazine, Clonidine, Guanfacine.
Clonidine and guanfacine can be used for high blood pressure.
True.
Name one reason for non-adherence to 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
Clonidine and guanfacine have a black box warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts/behaviors.
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.
T/F: More than 40 buildings in New York City have their own zip code.
True! "Manhattan—the most crowded of New York City’s five boroughs—is so cramped that it has more than 300 zip codes. Some skyscrapers are even large enough to have one of their very own. The Empire State, Chrysler, and MetLife buildings are just a few that can claim exclusive rights to their own unique zip code."
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
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 is the largest animal in the world? (Hint: It lives in the ocean!)
Antarctic blue whale
What are 2 ways you can manage decreased appetite because of stimulant medications and Strattera and Qelbree?
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.
Stimulant medications work faster than Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) and alpha-2-adrenergic agonists.
True.
Stimulants: 3-7 days
SNRIs: 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