Anticholinergic Medications Overview

Study Notes

Anticholinergic Medications Overview

Anticholinergics block acetylcholine activity in the brain.
Used for various illnesses, including gastrointestinal and respiratory conditions.
Key medications include Dicyclomine HCL, Hyoscyamine Sulfate, Ipatropium Bromide, and Oxybutynin Chloride.

Dicyclomine

Indicated for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS); categorized as pregnancy category B.
Administered orally, 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime.
Side effects: Anticholinergic effects, rash, dyspnea, headache, tachycardia.
Nursing considerations: Caution against hazardous activities due to drowsiness; monitor for diarrhea, which may indicate intestinal obstruction; educate on timing for administration.

Hyoscyamine

Used to treat peptic ulcers, GI disorders, urinary incontinence, and spastic disorders; categorized as pregnancy category C.
Taken orally 30-60 minutes before meals; onset 20-30 minutes, lasting 4-6 hours. Available IM/IV/SubCut.
Side effects include anticholinergic effects, confusion (notably in the elderly), palpitations, tachycardia, rash, headache, and drowsiness.
Educate patients to wear sunglasses to manage photophobia; avoid alertness-requiring activities and substances within one hour before taking the medication.

Ipatropium Bromide

Indicated for bronchospasms related to COPD, rhinorrhea, and rhinitis; classified as pregnancy category B.
Administered through metered-dose inhalers or nebulizers. Important not to mix with Cromolyn sodium in nebulizers.
Side effects consist of anticholinergic effects, nervousness, tremors, palpitations, epistaxis, and potential respiratory complications.
Advise that it is not suitable for acute bronchospasms; assess for hypersensitivity to ingredients like soy or atropine; encourage adequate hydration and avoid other OTC medications that may interact.

Oxybutynin

Prescribed for neurogenic bladder; categorized as pregnancy category C.
Taken orally on an empty stomach.
Side effects: Anticholinergic effects, anxiety/restlessness, dizziness, convulsions, tachycardia, nausea, vomiting, and unusual pupil reactions (mydriasis).
Patient education includes avoiding alcohol/CNS depressants, being cautious during hot weather due to decreased perspiration, and wearing sunglasses for photophobia.

Common Anticholinergic Side Effects

Symptoms often include blurry vision, urinary difficulties (hesitancy/retention), dry mouth, and constipation.

Management of Side Effects

Encourage increased fluid intake, use candy for dry mouth relief, promote exercise to alleviate constipation, and consider laxatives if necessary.
Advise against driving and operating machinery; caution against combining medications with CNS depressants or alcohol.

Description

Explore the key uses and examples of anticholinergic medications through this flashcard quiz. Learn about specific drugs like Dicyclomine and their indications, routes, and effects on the body. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals looking to enhance their understanding of these important medications.