Antihistamines
What are the antihistamines that we discussed in class that can be used for allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, and insomnia?
diphenhydramine (Benadyl)
What symptom can occur with taking oxymetolazone, a nasal spray decongestant for more than 5 days?
Rebound congestion
What is the difference between a productive and non-productive cough?
Productive produces phlegm; and non-productive is a dry, annoying cough does not produce phlegm
What are expectorants and mucolytic agents used to treat?
chest congestion and productive cough
What is a bronchospasm?
a narrowing of the bronchi, accompanied by wheezing and coughing
What is a common side effect of older (first gen) antihistamines?
drowsiness/sedation, newer antihistamines are non-sedating and longer lasting
What is the rationale for pharmacies requiring patients to provide their identification and track purchases, to purchase pseudoephedrine OTC?
It is a common ingredient in the illicit manufacturing of the drug methamphetamine
What is the maximum length of time decongestants should be used?
Avoid prolonged use for greater than 7 days, no more than 5 days for nasal decongestants.
How do expectorants and mucolytic agents work?
They reduce/thin the viscosity of tenacious secretions
Which of our bronchodilators would you use first in an asthma attack?
albuterol
What is the MOA of antihistamines?
They block histamine at H1 receptors; inhibit smooth muscle constriction in blood vessels and the respiratory and GI tracts; and decrease capillary permeability, salivation, and tear formation
What are 3 common side effects of decongestants?
hypertension, insomnia, restlessness, tachycardia
What are 3 common side effects of antitussives?
dizziness, restlessness, and GI distress
What is the most commonly used expectorant medication's generic name?
guaifenesin
Name one of bronchodilators that is also a stimulant and has a narrow therapeutic index?
theophylline
Clients should be advised that antihistamines may cause drowsiness, and concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants should be avoided, not exceed dosing recommendations, frequent oral hygiene may assist in alleviating discomfort of dry mouth
People with what medical conditions need to speak with their doctor before taking decongestants?
hypertension, glaucoma,
What is one narcotic medication that is used to treat cough?
codeine
What is the rationale for patient education regarding increasing fluid intake with expectorants?
to thin secretions
Why is tachycardia a side effect of beta2-agonists?
Albuterol stimulate Beta 2-adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscle of bronchi and bronchioles producing bronchodilation. Beta-1 receptors can also be inadvertently stimulated, causing tachycardia.
What type of effect can occur in children and adults taking antihistamines?
Paradoxical effect
What is the MOA of decongestants?
They act directly on the adrenergic receptors and act indirectly by releasing norepinephrine from its storage sites. The drug produces vasoconstriction, which shrinks nasal mucosa membranes.
DAILY DOUBLE!!!!
What is the MOA for dextromethorphan?
Dextromethorphan suppresses a cough by depressing the cough center in the medulla oblongata or the cough receptors in the throat, trachea, or lungs, effectively elevating the threshold for coughing.
What is the MOA of expectorants?
They irritate the gastric vagal receptors that stimulate respiratory tract fluid
What are the two possible common side effects of anticholinergic medications?
urinary retention, dry mouth, constipation