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Questions and Answers
What is the primary mechanism of action for centrally acting alpha-2 agonists?
What is the primary mechanism of action for centrally acting alpha-2 agonists?
Which side effect is most commonly associated with the use of centrally acting alpha-2 agonists?
Which side effect is most commonly associated with the use of centrally acting alpha-2 agonists?
Which of the following drugs is considered a first-line treatment for gestational hypertension?
Which of the following drugs is considered a first-line treatment for gestational hypertension?
What clinical condition is clonidine used to manage in children?
What clinical condition is clonidine used to manage in children?
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What is a potential consequence of abruptly stopping clonidine treatment?
What is a potential consequence of abruptly stopping clonidine treatment?
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Which of the following is recommended to alleviate dry mouth caused by alpha-2 agonists?
Which of the following is recommended to alleviate dry mouth caused by alpha-2 agonists?
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What physiological effect do centrally acting alpha-2 agonists produce in the cardiovascular system?
What physiological effect do centrally acting alpha-2 agonists produce in the cardiovascular system?
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Clonidine can help mitigate opioid withdrawal symptoms by inhibiting the release of which neurotransmitter?
Clonidine can help mitigate opioid withdrawal symptoms by inhibiting the release of which neurotransmitter?
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Which of the following instructions should be given to a patient to address dizziness from alpha-2 agonists?
Which of the following instructions should be given to a patient to address dizziness from alpha-2 agonists?
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The application site for a transdermal patch of clonidine should be on which of the following body parts?
The application site for a transdermal patch of clonidine should be on which of the following body parts?
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Study Notes
Centrally Acting Alpha-2 Agonists
- Drugs: Clonidine (Catapres), Methyldopa (Aldomet), Guanfacine (Tenex)
Mechanism of Action
- Activates alpha-2 receptors
- Stimulation of alpha-2 receptors inhibits the release of catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine)
- Results in vasodilation and reduced peripheral vascular resistance
Clinical Uses
- Hypertension: Methyldopa is a first-line treatment for gestational hypertension and mild preeclampsia.
- ADHD: Clonidine helps regulate attention and impulse control to treat ADHD.
- Opioid withdrawal: Clonidine inhibits neurotransmitter release, mitigating withdrawal symptoms.
Side Effects
- Drowsiness: Reduced norepinephrine leads to decreased alertness.
- Depression: Reduced norepinephrine can contribute to mood changes.
- Dry mouth: Activation of alpha-2 receptors in salivary glands decreases saliva production. Relieved by chewing gum or frequent water intake.
- Dizziness (Orthostatic Hypotension): Patients should change positions slowly to prevent dizziness and falls.
- Bradycardia: Slowed heart rate.
- Rebound Hypertension (Clonidine): Can occur with abrupt discontinuation.
Administration
- Clonidine Transdermal Patch:
- Applied to a dry, non-hairy area on the upper arm or torso.
- Replaced every 7 days.
- Rotation of patch application sites is recommended.
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation; taper the dose over 2-4 days to prevent rebound hypertension.
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Description
This quiz focuses on centrally acting alpha-2 agonists, including Clonidine, Methyldopa, and Guanfacine. It covers their mechanism of action, clinical uses in treating conditions like hypertension and ADHD, and common side effects. Test your knowledge on these important pharmacological agents.
