Drugs for Neuromuscular Disorders PDF

Drugs for Neuromuscular Disorders NUR210/BSL 101  Myasthenia Gravis (MG) Understanding Myasthenia Gravis Autoimmune disorder Antibodies attach to acetylcholine receptor sites, obstruct binding of acetylcholine, and destroy receptor sites Lack of ac...

Drugs for Neuromuscular Disorders NUR210/BSL 101  Myasthenia Gravis (MG) Understanding Myasthenia Gravis Autoimmune disorder Antibodies attach to acetylcholine receptor sites, obstruct binding of acetylcholine, and destroy receptor sites Lack of acetylcholine impairs transmission of messages at neuromuscular junctions Leads to ineffective muscle contraction and muscle weakness Leads to weakness of respiratory, facial, and extremity muscles  Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors Pyridostigmine Action Improves transmission of messages down the nerves by inhibiting the destruction of Ach. Allows Ach to move down the nerves peripherally Think P-pyridostigmine and P-peripheral Use – Control the symptoms of (MG) Increase muscle strength  Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors - Pyridostigmine Side effects/adverse reactions GI disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps Increased salivation, sweating, tearing Miosis, blurred vision Bradycardia Hypertension  Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors - Pyridostigmine Contraindications GI/GU obstruction Caution Bradycardia, arrhythmias, hypotension Peptic ulcer Asthma Interactions Atropine (other anti-cholinergic drugs), other drugs that decrease HR or BP Best given before meals empty stomach  Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors - Pyridostigmine Assessment Vital signs Medical/medication history Obtain baseline symptoms  Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors - Pyridostigmine Nursing interventions Monitor VS, including respiratory system Monitor for side effects/adverse reactions Monitor for decreased muscle strength Administer doses on time before meals Monitor drug effectiveness  Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors - Pyridostigmine Client teaching Encourage client to wear medical identification Take drug as ordered on empty stomach before meals. Do not skip doses To side effects/adverse reactions to report To notify health care provider of addition of medications  Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors - Pyridostigmine Evaluation Improved muscle strength Absence of respiratory distress Compliance with medication