Questions and Answers
What is the brand name of dantrolene?
Dantrium
What is the therapeutic classification of dantrolene?
Direct-acting skeletal muscle relaxant, antispasticity agent
Which of the following is a contraindication for dantrolene?
What are some of the side effects of dantrolene?
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Dantrolene interferes with the release of calcium ions stored in __________.
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What serious side effect should be avoided when taking dantrolene?
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Dantrolene is used for muscle spasms following a heart attack.
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List one interaction with dantrolene.
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What should be monitored during IV administration of dantrolene?
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Study Notes
Dantrolene Overview
- Brand Name: Dantrium
- Classified as a direct-acting skeletal muscle relaxant and antispasticity agent.
Mechanism of Action
- Directly relaxes spastic muscles by interfering with calcium ion release from skeletal muscle cells.
Therapeutic Uses
- Effective for muscle spasms following spinal cord injuries, stroke (CVA), cerebral palsy (CP), and multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Used in the management of malignant hyperthermia and general spasticity.
Potential Interactions
- Increased risk of ventricular fibrillation and cardiovascular collapse with calcium channel blockers.
- Hepatotoxicity risk when combined with estrogen.
- Additive sedation with CNS depressants, including alcohol.
Common Side Effects
- Muscle weakness, drowsiness, and xerostomia (dry mouth).
- Dizziness and nausea, accompanied by photosensitivity.
- Possible gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and changes in heart rate (tachycardia).
- Risk of erratic blood pressure and urinary retention.
- Serious side effect includes hepatotoxicity; concurrent alcohol use is contraindicated.
Contraindications
- Not to be used in patients with preexisting hepatic disease.
- Caution against use when spasticity is necessary for standing or walking.
Nursing Considerations
- Obtain comprehensive health history and physical examination.
- Establish baseline neurologic and pain status prior to administration.
- Monitor vital signs frequently, especially during IV infusion.
- Observe for cardiopulmonary changes and assess breath and heart sounds.
- Regularly check liver function tests; watch for signs of jaundice.
- Advise patients to avoid alcohol and refrain from driving while on medication.
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Description
Test your knowledge about the drug Dantrolene with these flashcards. Learn important details such as brand name, classifications, and interactions. Perfect for students in pharmacology or medicine courses.
