Nifedipine Flashcards

Study Notes

Medication Overview

Trade Name: Adalat Procardia
Generic Name: Nifedipine
Classifications: Antianginal, Antihypertensive, and Calcium Channel Blocker

Drug Actions

Nifedipine treats high blood pressure and angina, particularly chest pain from stress or exercise.
Also used for circulatory disorders like Raynaud's syndrome.
Works by relaxing blood vessels, thus controlling blood pressure and reducing angina attacks.
Immediate-acting Nifedipine treats coronary spasm, a sudden artery constriction in the heart.

Side Effects

Common reported side effects include mood changes, dyspnea, congestive heart failure (CHF), myocardial infarction (MI), abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, palpitations, hyperglycemia, and weight loss.

Drug Interactions

Beta blockers may enhance nifedipine's effects.
Theophylline effects might be intensified.
Other antihypertensives could amplify hypotensive effects.

Contraindications

Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice due to increased medication levels in the bloodstream.
Do not crush or chew the medication to prevent rapid drug release and increased side effects.

Warnings

Maximum recommended daily dose is 90-120 mg.
Overdose symptoms: fainting, severe dizziness, irregular heartbeat.
If a dose is missed close to the next scheduled dose, skip it and continue the usual regimen without doubling.

Toxic Effects and Adverse Reactions

Serious allergic reaction signs: abdominal cramps, breathing difficulties, nausea, swelling.
Heart attack symptoms: chest pain, radiating pain, nausea, sweating, anxiety.
Intestinal blockage: painful abdomen, vomiting, constipation.
Severe skin reactions: blistering, widespread rash, or rash with fever.

Nursing Considerations

Assess for allergies, pregnancy, and lactation history.
Educate patients on side effects, advising immediate reporting of increased dyspnea or orthopnea.
Effectiveness monitoring in patients with primary pulmonary hypertension includes observing decreased exertional dyspnea.

Special Considerations

Pregnancy Category: C.
Does not affect AV nodal activity.
Use caution in geriatric patients; be aware of potential hypotension and angina pectoris.

Discharge Teaching

Instruct patients to take daily pulse rates and weigh themselves at the same time each day.
Inform about the possibility of palpitations early in treatment and caution when changing positions.

Nursing Teaching

Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential.
Report palpitations, weight gain, and any edema in ankles or feet.
Emphasize avoiding grapefruit.

LPNs Role in Medication Administration

Must adhere to the 'rights': Right Medication, Client, Dose, Time, Route, Reason, and Documentation.
Must understand medication effects, side effects, and interactions to take appropriate action.
Responsible for administering medications within regulatory standards and individual competence.

Description

This quiz provides essential flashcards for understanding Nifedipine, commonly known as Adalat. Each card covers important terminology including trade name, generic name, and drug classifications, along with the drug's action. Perfect for medical students and healthcare professionals.