Hematologic Drugs Flashcards

Study Notes

Hematologic Drugs Overview

Includes various drugs such as ferrous sulfate, Vitamin B12, folic acid, erythropoietin, and anticoagulants like heparin and warfarin.
Key drugs have specific mechanisms for treating hematologic disorders such as anemia and clotting issues.

Anemia

Commonly presents as a symptom linked to an underlying condition.
Iron-deficiency anemia is the most prevalent type.
Understanding the root cause of decreased RBCs is crucial for appropriate treatment.

Ferrous Sulfate (Feosol)

Classification: Iron replacement therapy, with varying amounts of elemental iron based on the preparation.
Action: Replenishes body iron, crucial for oxygen transport in RBCs.
Pharmacokinetics:
- Absorption: About 15% absorbed if stores are low; only 2-3% when stores are high. Mainly absorbed in the duodenum and upper small bowel, with Vitamin C enhancing absorption.
- Metabolism: Utilized by the body and recycled or stored; minimal daily loss.
- Excretion: Excreted unchanged via feces and normal body processes.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs): Common side effects include headache, nausea, and constipation, affecting patient adherence.
Dosage:
- Adults: Generally 325mg daily or more often; individualized based on severity.
- Children: 3-6mg Fe/kg/day in three divided doses.
Special Information:
- Administered orally or parenterally if GI absorption is poor; critical for patients with blood loss.
- Stools may turn black or green. Use diluted solutions with a straw to prevent dental staining.
- Antidote for overdose is deferoxamine.
- New parenteral iron products like ferumoxytol offer faster absorption with fewer anaphylaxis risks.

Ferritin Stores

Iron-storing protein where absorption and excretion rates adjust based on body iron levels.
Lower stores lead to higher absorption rates (up to 15%); replenishing stores can take 6-10 months.

Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)

Deficiency leads to macrocytic anemia; essential for RBC formation and myelin sheath maintenance.
Predominantly sourced from animal products, making vegans susceptible to deficiency.
Classification: Vitamin crucial for health.
Action: Restores necessary Vitamin B12 for RBC formation.
Pharmacokinetics:
- Absorption: Oral absorption is poor (1-2%); effective via IM or deep SQ injection, also available as a nasal spray.
Dosage:
- Adults: 100-200mcg IM or SQ monthly; can be weekly or biweekly if needed.
Special Note: Pernicious anemia results from lack of intrinsic factor in gastric mucosa affecting B12 absorption.

Description

Test your knowledge on various hematologic drugs and their uses. This quiz includes definitions of key terms associated with anemia and important medications like iron supplements and anticoagulants. Perfect for students and professionals in the medical field.