Antihistamines
Decongestants
Antitussives
Expectorants
100

block action of histamine @H1 receptor and muscarinic receptor sites causing relaxation of smooth muscle, ⬇GI/respiratory lacrimal/salivary secretions, & capillary permeability 

What are antihistamines? 

100
This drug only relieves congestion by activating alpha-adrenergic receptors on nasal blood vessels causing vasoconstriction (shrinks swelling) and has the potential for abuse/misuse, discontinue after 3 days (intranasal)

What are Adrenergic Decongestants?

100

These drugs are for non-productive cough relief

What are opioid and nonopioid antitussives

100

This drug reduces the viscosity of secretion by increasing respiratory tract fluid

What is Guaifenesin? 

200
This antihistamine can cross BBB and act on central and peripheral nervous systems. 

Known for sedative and anticholinergic effects‼️ 

What is Diphenhydramine which is a Traditional Antihistamine ? 

200

Avoid pts with HTN, severe CAD, breastfeeding, children <4 yrs old, and/or concurrent MAOI therapy.

Pt may experience Meth-head behaviors (nervousness/anxiety/excitability, insomnia, restlessness, palpitations, HTN, tachycardia, anorexia) 

Don't mix with‼️: adrenergic drugs and beta blockers

Administer 2hr before bedtime and swallow whole!!

No improvement within 7 days = notify provider

What are contraindications, adverse effects, education, and drug-interactions of Pseudoephedrine? 

200

This drug suppresses the cough reflex through direct action on the medulla and can relieve pain. 

‼️Cannot be taken with alcohol or if pt is pregnant, ICP, COPD, Liver disease, impaired renal function, hypercapnia, anorexia, BPH, has opioid dependency, respiratory depression, and/or GI obstruction‼️

Fall Safety!! Check ABGs 

Overdose = Naloxone⭐️

Purple Drank/Lean


What are the contraindications and nursing implications for Codeine/Hydrocodone (opioids)

200

This is an ER tablet that should be swallowed whole and followed by a full glass of water. 

Maintain fluid intake of 1500-2000mL/day 

⚠️Kidney Failure and hypernatremia 

‼️Fever, sore throat, headache, skin-rash, > 1 week cough = medical attention

What are the nursing indications and client education for Guaifenesin

300

Pt's with glaucoma, cardiac disease/HTN, kidney disease, BPH, peptic ulcer disease, seizure disorders, and Cat. B pregnancy CANNOT receive this type of antihistamine. 

Must AVOID alcohol, MAOIs, and CNS depressants 

What are the contraindications and Drug Interactions of Traditional Antihistamines ?

300

This is an adrenergic decongestant that is very potent and has a prompt onset. 

Pts with glaucoma and <2 years old cannot have this medication

Pt may experience burning, stinging, dryness of nasal muscosa, sneezing, and rebound congestion 

!! don't use > 3 days because leads to dependency !!

What is Oxymetazoline? 

300

Nonopioid antitussive liquid oral suspension drug that requires shaking before use and delayed fluid consumption to prevent dilution.‼️No alcohol or CNS depressants‼️

⚠️Fever, angina, headache, skin-rash, > 1 week cough = medical attention



What is Dextromethorphan? 

300

This drug reduces cold symptoms and recovery time when taken early due to immunostimulant effects. Commonly used for antisepsis. 

😵‍💫 dermatitis, Gi upset, dizziness, headache, and unpleasant taste 

⚠️clients with HIV/AIDs, TB, connective tissue diseases, and multiple sclerosis

What are the adverse effects and contraindications of Echinacea? 

400

😵‍💫: blurred vision, palpitations, dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, drowsiness/sedation (FALL RISK), and seizures.

The nurse should monitor BP/VS, take with meals, avoid other OTC cold/cough meds, and take sugar-free gum for dry mouth

What are the adverse effects and nursing implications for traditional antihistamines? 

400

This is the most effective drug for prevention and treatment of seasonal/perennial rhinitis 

Can take up to 2-4 weeks to see full effects

not associated w/ rebound congestion

Antiinflammatory effect (decrease inflammation) 

associated with slowing of linear growth in children !!

What are Inhaled Intranasal Corticosteroids? 

400

Nonopioid antitussive that must be swallowed whole. ⚠️Fever, angina, headache, > 1 week cough = medical attention

What is Benzonatate? 

500

This is antihistamine is non-sedating as it only acts on the peripheral nervous system meaning there are less adverse effects. These are more expensive, longer duration, DONT cross BBB. 

What are 2nd-Gen Antihistamine? 

500

Shake well before use, prime unit with 6-7x  sprays (first time use), gently blow nose before use. 

No improvement within 1 month or worsen = contact provider

What is client education for Inhaled intranasal Corticosteroids? 

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