Pharmacology of Bisphosphonates and Xanthine Inhibitors

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary indication for alendronate?

Osteomyelitis

Osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Postmenopausal osteoporosis and Paget's disease (correct)

What is the mechanism of action (MOA) of alendronate?

Stimulates osteoblast activity

Increases calcium absorption in the intestines

Enhances vitamin D metabolism

Inhibits osteoclast activity to prevent bone resorption (correct)

Which side effect is commonly associated with alendronate?

Constipation

Hypertension

Weight gain

Esophagitis (correct)

What nursing consideration (NC) is essential for patients taking alendronate?

Monitor bone density Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary indication for allopurinol?

Chronic gout Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action (MOA) of allopurinol?

Inhibits uric acid production Signup and view all the answers

Which side effect is most concerning with allopurinol?

Rash (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome) Signup and view all the answers

What nursing consideration (NC) is important for patients on allopurinol?

Monitor renal and liver function Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism by which allopurinol helps manage gout?

Decreases uric acid production Signup and view all the answers

Which daily activity can help manage chronic gout in addition to medication?

Maintain a healthy weight and diet Signup and view all the answers

What should be the position of a patient after taking alendronate?

Sitting upright for at least 30 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical nursing intervention for patients taking bisphosphonates?

Ensure the patient sits upright after administration Signup and view all the answers

Which dietary change is recommended for patients with gout?

Avoid high-purine foods Signup and view all the answers

Which laboratory values should be monitored for patients taking allopurinol?

Uric acid levels Signup and view all the answers

What potential effect can occur if allopurinol is stopped suddenly?

An increase in uric acid levels Signup and view all the answers

Which symptoms should a patient report while on allopurinol?

Rash or skin changes Signup and view all the answers

What can be a critical goal of therapy when prescribing bisphosphonates?

Increase bone density Signup and view all the answers

What medication should be taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption?

Alendronate Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common symptom of gout?

Joint swelling and pain Signup and view all the answers

What should a patient taking allopurinol increase to prevent kidney stones?

Fluid intake Signup and view all the answers

What serious condition may result from long-term untreated osteoporosis?

Pathologic fractures Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended action if a patient experiences adverse effects from osteoporosis medication?

Report the effects to a healthcare provider Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Bisphosphonates (e.g., Alendronate)

Primary Indication: Postmenopausal osteoporosis and Paget's disease
Mechanism of Action (MOA): Inhibits osteoclast activity, preventing bone resorption.
Common Side Effect: Esophagitis (avoidance strategies important)
Nursing Considerations: Monitor bone density, ensure patient sits upright for 30 minutes after administration, take on an empty stomach with plenty of water.
Dietary Considerations: Essential intake of calcium and vitamin D.
Exercise Recommendations: Weight-bearing exercises are beneficial.
Drug Interactions: Antacids may decrease effectiveness.

Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors (e.g., Allopurinol)

Primary Indication: Chronic gout
Mechanism of Action (MOA): Inhibits uric acid production.
Serious Side Effect: Rash (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), closely monitor.
Nursing Considerations: Monitor renal and liver function, increase fluid intake, monitor for signs of kidney stones.
Patient Education: Importance of increasing fluid intake.
Monitoring Parameters: Uric acid levels, renal function, liver function should be monitored.
Lifestyle Modification: Maintain a healthy weight and diet, avoid high-purine foods.
Time to Symptom Improvement: 2 or more weeks.
Drug Interactions: Monitor potential interactions with other medications.

General Information

Osteoporosis Complications: Can lead to pathologic fractures.
Gout Symptoms: Joint swelling and pain are common.
Gout Dietary Considerations: Avoid high-purine foods.

Additional Notes

Bisphosphonate Administration: Essential to take on an empty stomach and remain upright for 30 minutes, to prevent esophageal problems/ulcers.
Allopurinol Interactions: Report any rash promptly.
Drug Monitoring: Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is critical, especially with long-term use.

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Description

This quiz covers key pharmacological aspects of bisphosphonates and xanthine oxidase inhibitors, focusing on their indications, mechanisms of action, side effects, and nursing considerations. It is essential for healthcare professionals to understand these medications' uses in treating postmenopausal osteoporosis, Paget's disease, and chronic gout. Test your knowledge on important monitoring practices and dietary recommendations related to these drugs.