Pharm Final Exam Review PDF

**Antacids** **Classification:** Direct-acting antiulcer agents **Indications:** - Relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach associated with hyperacidity - Prevention and treatment of peptic ulcers **Therapeutic Effects:** - Neutralize stomach acid - Reduce heartburn...

**Antacids** **Classification:** Direct-acting antiulcer agents **Indications:** - Relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach associated with hyperacidity - Prevention and treatment of peptic ulcers **Therapeutic Effects:** - Neutralize stomach acid - Reduce heartburn and acid indigestion symptoms **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - **Aluminum-containing antacids:** Constipation - **Magnesium-containing antacids:** Diarrhea - **Calcium-containing antacids:** Constipation, gas, and bloating - **Sodium bicarbonate:** Metabolic alkalosis, sodium retention, and rebound hyperacidity **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer antacids one hour before or two hours after meals and at bedtime. - Monitor for electrolyte imbalances, especially in patients with renal impairment. - Educate patients about potential interactions with other medications. - Assess for underlying causes of heartburn or acid indigestion. **Patient Education:** - Take antacids as directed. - Avoid taking antacids with other medications, as they may interfere with absorption. - Inform your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or persist. - Recognize signs of electrolyte imbalance (e.g., muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat). - Understand the potential side effects of antacids and how to manage them. **H2 Receptor Antagonists (e.g., Famotidine)** **Classification:** Histamine H2-receptor antagonists **Indications:** - Short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcer - Maintenance therapy for duodenal ulcer - Treatment of benign gastric ulcer - Treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome) - Heartburn and acid indigestion **Therapeutic Effects:** - Reduce gastric acid secretion by competitively blocking H2 receptors on parietal cells **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Headache - Diarrhea - Constipation - Dizziness - Muscle pain **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer famotidine orally or by injection. - Monitor for therapeutic response and adverse effects. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that affect liver enzymes. **Patient Education:** - Take famotidine as prescribed. - Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can irritate the stomach lining. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of famotidine and how to manage them. **Proton Pump Inhibitors (e.g., Pantoprazole)** **Classification:** Proton pump inhibitors **Indications:** - Short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcer - Maintenance therapy for duodenal ulcer - Treatment of erosive esophagitis - Treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) - Treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome - Prevention of stress ulcers **Therapeutic Effects:** - Irreversibly inhibit the H+/K+-ATPase enzyme system in the gastric parietal cells, thereby reducing gastric acid secretion **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Headache - Diarrhea - Abdominal pain - Nausea - Vomiting - Increased risk of infections (e.g., Clostridium difficile) - Hypomagnesemia **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer pantoprazole orally. - Monitor for therapeutic response and adverse effects. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that affect liver enzymes. - Assess for hypomagnesemia, especially in long-term users. **Patient Education:** - Take pantoprazole as prescribed. - Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can irritate the stomach lining. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of pantoprazole and how to manage them. **Prostaglandin Analogs (e.g., Misoprostol)** **Classification:** Prostaglandin E1 analog **Indications:** - Prevention of NSAID-induced gastric ulcers - Treatment of NSAID-associated ulcers **Therapeutic Effects:** - Stimulates mucus and bicarbonate secretion in the stomach - Increases mucosal blood flow - Protects the gastric mucosa from damage caused by NSAIDs **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Diarrhea - Abdominal cramps - Headache - Nausea - Vomiting **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer misoprostol orally. - Monitor for gastrointestinal side effects and adjust dosage as needed. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that affect the gastrointestinal tract. - Advise pregnant women to avoid misoprostol due to its abortifacient effects. **Patient Education:** - Take misoprostol as prescribed. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of misoprostol and how to manage them. - Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can irritate the stomach lining. - Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception while taking misoprostol. **Antiflatulents (e.g., Simethicone)** **Classification:** Antiflatulent **Indications:** - Relief of gas pain and bloating **Therapeutic Effects:** - Breaks up gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for easier passage of gas **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Generally well-tolerated with few side effects **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer simethicone orally. - Monitor for relief of symptoms. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that affect the gastrointestinal tract. **Patient Education:** - Take simethicone as prescribed. - Avoid foods that commonly cause gas, such as beans, cabbage, and carbonated beverages. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. **Mucosal Protectants (e.g., Sucralfate)** **Classification:** Mucosal protectant **Indications:** - Treatment of active duodenal ulcer - Short-term treatment of active benign gastric ulcer **Therapeutic Effects:** - Forms a protective barrier over ulcers, preventing further damage and promoting healing **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Constipation - Dry mouth - Nausea - Dizziness **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer sucralfate orally, one hour before meals and at bedtime. - Monitor for therapeutic response and adverse effects. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect the absorption of sucralfate. **Patient Education:** - Take sucralfate as prescribed. - Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can irritate the stomach lining. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of sucralfate and how to manage them. **Bulk-Forming Laxatives (e.g., Psyllium)** **Classification:** Bulk-forming laxative **Indications:** - Treatment of constipation - Prevention of constipation **Therapeutic Effects:** - Absorbs water in the intestines, increasing stool bulk and softening it **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Abdominal cramps - Bloating - Flatulence **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer psyllium with plenty of water. - Monitor for adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect the absorption of psyllium. **Patient Education:** - Take psyllium as prescribed and with plenty of water. - Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration. - Avoid taking psyllium with other medications, as it may interfere with their absorption. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. **Antidiarrheals (e.g., Loperamide)** **Classification:** Antidiarrheal **Indications:** - Treatment of acute diarrhea **Therapeutic Effects:** - Slows intestinal motility, reducing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Constipation - Drowsiness - Dizziness - Abdominal pain **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer loperamide orally. - Monitor for therapeutic response and adverse effects. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that affect the gastrointestinal tract. - Advise patients to seek medical attention if diarrhea persists or worsens, or if signs of dehydration develop. **Patient Education:** - Take loperamide as prescribed. - Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. - Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen diarrhea. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of loperamide and how to manage them. **Bismuth Subsalicylate** **Classification:** Antidiarrheal, antacid **Indications:** - Treatment of acute diarrhea - Relief of upset stomach, heartburn, and indigestion **Therapeutic Effects:** - Coats the gastrointestinal tract, soothing irritation and reducing inflammation - Kills bacteria that may cause diarrhea - Neutralizes stomach acid **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Dark stools - Temporary tongue discoloration - Reye\'s syndrome (rare, but serious, especially in children and adolescents with viral infections) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer bismuth subsalicylate orally. - Monitor for therapeutic response and adverse effects. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect the gastrointestinal tract. - Advise patients to seek medical attention if diarrhea persists or worsens, or if signs of dehydration develop. **Patient Education:** - Take bismuth subsalicylate as prescribed. - Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. - Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen diarrhea. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of bismuth subsalicylate and how to manage them. - Avoid giving bismuth subsalicylate to children and adolescents with viral infections, as it may increase the risk of Reye\'s syndrome. **Osmotic Laxatives (e.g., Polyethylene Glycol)** **Classification:** Osmotic laxative **Indications:** - Bowel cleansing before diagnostic procedures - Treatment of constipation **Therapeutic Effects:** - Draws water into the colon, softening the stool and stimulating bowel movements **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Abdominal cramps - Bloating - Nausea - Vomiting - Electrolyte imbalance (especially with prolonged use) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer polyethylene glycol orally. - Monitor for adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration. - Assess for electrolyte imbalances, especially in patients with renal impairment. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect the gastrointestinal tract. **Patient Education:** - Take polyethylene glycol as prescribed and with plenty of fluids. - Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of polyethylene glycol and how to manage them. **Lactulose** **Classification:** Osmotic laxative **Indications:** - Treatment of constipation - Management of hepatic encephalopathy **Therapeutic Effects:** - Acidifies the colon, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria - Draws water into the colon, softening the stool **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Abdominal cramps - Bloating - Flatulence - Diarrhea **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer lactulose orally. - Monitor for bowel function and adjust dosage as needed. - Assess for electrolyte imbalances, especially in patients with renal impairment. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect the gastrointestinal tract. **Patient Education:** - Take lactulose as prescribed. - Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of lactulose and how to manage them **Levothyroxine** **Classification:** Thyroid hormone replacement therapy **Indications:** - Hypothyroidism - Thyroid cancer following thyroidectomy **Therapeutic Effects:** - Replaces missing thyroid hormone, restoring normal thyroid function **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Hyperthyroidism (e.g., palpitations, anxiety, insomnia, weight loss) - Headache - Muscle cramps - Tremor **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer levothyroxine orally, usually in the morning on an empty stomach. - Monitor thyroid function tests regularly. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and avoiding over-the-counter medications that may interact with levothyroxine. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect the absorption of levothyroxine. **Patient Education:** - Take levothyroxine as prescribed. - Avoid taking other medications, including over-the-counter medications, without consulting your healthcare provider. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the importance of regular thyroid function tests. - Understand the potential side effects of levothyroxine and how to manage them. **Methimazole** **Classification:** Antithyroid medication **Indications:** - Hyperthyroidism - Preparation for thyroid surgery **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Agranulocytosis (a serious blood disorder) - Liver damage - Rash - Joint pain - Hair loss **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer methimazole orally. - Monitor complete blood count (CBC) regularly to assess for agranulocytosis. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and reporting any signs of infection or other adverse effects. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect liver function. **Patient Education:** - Take methimazole as prescribed. - Report any signs of infection (e.g., fever, sore throat) to your healthcare provider immediately. - Understand the importance of regular blood tests to monitor for side effects. - Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they may worsen liver damage. - Understand the potential side effects of methimazole and how to manage them. **Hypothyroidism** **Condition:** Underactive thyroid gland **Symptoms:** - Fatigue - Weight gain - Cold intolerance - Dry skin - Hair loss - Muscle aches - Constipation - Depression - Slow heart rate **Diagnosis:** - Blood tests (TSH, T4, T3) - Thyroid ultrasound - Thyroid scan **Treatment:** - Levothyroxine replacement therapy **Nursing Considerations:** - Monitor thyroid function tests regularly. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and avoiding over-the-counter medications that may interact with levothyroxine. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect the absorption of levothyroxine. **Patient Education:** - Take levothyroxine as prescribed. - Avoid taking other medications, including over-the-counter medications, without consulting your healthcare provider. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the importance of regular thyroid function tests. - Understand the potential side effects of levothyroxine and how to manage them. **Hyperthyroidism** **Condition:** Overactive thyroid gland **Symptoms:** - Rapid heartbeat - Anxiety - Tremor - Weight loss - Increased appetite - Difficulty sleeping - Heat intolerance - Frequent bowel movements - Muscle weakness - Eye problems (e.g., bulging eyes, sensitivity to light) **Diagnosis:** - Blood tests (TSH, T4, T3) - Thyroid ultrasound - Thyroid scan **Treatment:** - Antithyroid medications (e.g., methimazole, propylthiouracil) - Radioactive iodine therapy - Surgery (thyroidectomy) **Nursing Considerations:** - Monitor thyroid function tests regularly. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and reporting any signs of infection or other adverse effects. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect liver function. **Patient Education:** - Take medications as prescribed. - Report any signs of infection (e.g., fever, sore throat) to your healthcare provider immediately. - Understand the importance of regular blood tests to monitor for side effects. - Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they may worsen liver damage. - Understand the potential side effects of medications and how to manage them. **Thyroid Gland Function** **Function:** - **Regulates metabolism:** Controls how your body uses energy. - **Influences growth and development:** Essential for proper growth and development, especially in children. - **Aids in body temperature regulation:** Helps maintain body temperature. - **Affects heart rate and blood pressure:** Influences heart function and blood pressure. **Hormones Produced:** - **Thyroxine (T4):** The primary thyroid hormone. - **Triiodothyronine (T3):** The active form of thyroid hormone. **Iodine:** - Essential for thyroid hormone production. - Obtained through diet, primarily from seafood and iodized salt. **Disorders of the Thyroid Gland:** - **Hypothyroidism:** Underactive thyroid gland. - **Hyperthyroidism:** Overactive thyroid gland. **Diagnosis:** - Blood tests (TSH, T4, T3) - Thyroid ultrasound - Thyroid scan **Amphotericin B** **Classification:** Polyene antifungal **Indications:** - Severe systemic fungal infections (e.g., candidiasis, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis) **Therapeutic Effects:** - Binds to ergosterol, a component of fungal cell membranes, causing cell death **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Nephrotoxicity - Hypokalemia - Fever - Chills - Headache - Nausea - Vomiting - Infusion-related reactions (e.g., hypotension, fever, chills) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer amphotericin B intravenously. - Monitor renal function closely. - Hydrate the patient adequately to minimize nephrotoxicity. - Premedicate with antipyretics and antihistamines to reduce infusion-related reactions. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and reporting any adverse effects. **Patient Education:** - Understand the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Report any signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills) to your healthcare provider immediately. - Understand the potential side effects of amphotericin B and how to manage them. - Stay hydrated to minimize kidney damage. **Fluconazole** **Classification:** Triazole antifungal **Indications:** - Candidal infections (e.g., oral thrush, esophageal candidiasis, vulvovaginal candidiasis) - Cryptococcal meningitis - Coccidioidomycosis **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits fungal cell membrane synthesis by blocking the enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Headache - Nausea - Abdominal pain - Diarrhea - Rash - Liver damage (rare) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer fluconazole orally or intravenously. - Monitor liver function tests, especially in patients with underlying liver disease. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and reporting any adverse effects. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect liver enzymes. **Patient Education:** - Take fluconazole as prescribed. - Report any signs of liver damage (e.g., jaundice, dark urine, light-colored stools) to your healthcare provider immediately. - Understand the potential side effects of fluconazole and how to manage them. - Complete the full course of therapy, even if symptoms improve. **Nystatin** **Classification:** Polyene antifungal **Indications:** - Oral candidiasis (thrush) - Esophageal candidiasis **Therapeutic Effects:** - Binds to ergosterol, a component of fungal cell membranes, causing cell death **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Nausea - Vomiting - Diarrhea **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer nystatin orally as a suspension or troche. - Educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices to prevent recurrent infections. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect the gastrointestinal tract. **Patient Education:** - Take nystatin as prescribed. - Swish the suspension in your mouth for several minutes before swallowing. - Practice good oral hygiene, including brushing your teeth and tongue twice a day. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of nystatin and how to manage them. **Influenza Vaccine** **Classification:** Vaccine **Indications:** - Prevention of influenza (flu) **Therapeutic Effects:** - Stimulates the body\'s immune system to produce antibodies against the influenza virus **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Soreness at injection site - Low-grade fever - Muscle aches - Headache **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer the influenza vaccine intramuscularly. - Educate patients about the importance of annual vaccination. - Consider potential contraindications and precautions, such as severe allergic reactions to previous doses of the vaccine or egg allergy. - Monitor for adverse reactions after vaccination. **Patient Education:** - Get vaccinated annually. - Understand the importance of vaccination, especially for high-risk groups (e.g., elderly, pregnant women, individuals with chronic health conditions). - Report any severe adverse reactions to your healthcare provider. - Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, to prevent the spread of influenza. **Pneumococcal Vaccine** **Classification:** Vaccine **Indications:** - Prevention of pneumococcal infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia **Therapeutic Effects:** - Stimulates the body\'s immune system to produce antibodies against Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Soreness at injection site - Low-grade fever - Muscle aches - Headache **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer the pneumococcal vaccine intramuscularly. - Consider the appropriate vaccine for the patient\'s age and risk factors. - Educate patients about the importance of vaccination, especially for high-risk groups (e.g., elderly, individuals with chronic health conditions). - Monitor for adverse reactions after vaccination. **Patient Education:** - Get vaccinated according to recommended schedules. - Understand the importance of vaccination, especially for high-risk groups. - Report any severe adverse reactions to your healthcare provider. - Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, to prevent the spread of pneumococcal infections. **Varicella Vaccine** **Classification:** Vaccine **Indications:** - Prevention of chickenpox (varicella) **Therapeutic Effects:** - Stimulates the body\'s immune system to produce antibodies against the varicella-zoster virus **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Mild fever - Rash - Mild pain at injection site **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer the varicella vaccine subcutaneously. - Consider contraindications and precautions, such as pregnancy, immunosuppression, or recent blood transfusion. - Educate patients about the importance of vaccination, especially for children. - Monitor for adverse reactions after vaccination. **Patient Education:** - Get vaccinated according to the recommended schedule. - Understand the importance of vaccination, especially for children. - Report any severe adverse reactions to your healthcare provider. - Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of chickenpox. **Immunoglobulin** **Classification:** Immunotherapy **Indications:** - Prevention of certain infections in immunocompromised individuals - Treatment of certain immune deficiencies - Post-exposure prophylaxis for certain infectious diseases (e.g., hepatitis B, rabies) **Therapeutic Effects:** - Provides passive immunity by supplying preformed antibodies **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Mild fever - Headache - Muscle aches - Allergic reactions (rare) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer immunoglobulin intravenously or intramuscularly. - Monitor for allergic reactions during administration. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect the immune system. **Patient Education:** - Understand the reason for receiving immunoglobulin therapy. - Report any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider immediately. - Follow your healthcare provider\'s instructions for medication administration and follow-up care. **Natural Active Immunity** **Type of Immunity:** Acquired through natural exposure to an antigen **How it Works:** - The body\'s immune system encounters a pathogen (e.g., virus, bacteria). - The immune system produces antibodies specific to the pathogen. - Memory cells are formed, providing long-lasting protection against future infections with the same pathogen. **Examples:** - Recovering from chickenpox - Contracting and recovering from the flu **Duration of Immunity:** - Typically long-lasting, often lifelong **Advantages:** - Strong and long-lasting immunity - No need for medical intervention **Disadvantages:** - Requires exposure to the pathogen, which can lead to illness. **Natural Passive Immunity** **Type of Immunity:** Acquired through natural transfer of antibodies **How it Works:** - Antibodies are transferred from one person to another, typically from mother to child. - This provides immediate protection against specific pathogens. **Examples:** - Maternal antibodies transferred to a fetus through the placenta - Maternal antibodies transferred to an infant through breast milk **Duration of Immunity:** - Short-term, usually lasting a few months to a year **Advantages:** - Provides immediate protection against infection - Especially important for newborns with immature immune systems **Disadvantages:** - Immunity is temporary and does not lead to long-lasting protection - The body does not develop its own immune memory **Artificial Active Immunity** **Type of Immunity:** Acquired through vaccination **How it Works:** - A weakened or inactive form of a pathogen (or a component of it) is introduced into the body through a vaccine. - The immune system responds by producing antibodies and memory cells. **Examples:** - Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine - Influenza vaccine - Tetanus vaccine **Duration of Immunity:** - Varies depending on the vaccine, but can be long-lasting, often many years or even a lifetime **Advantages:** - Safe and effective way to prevent infectious diseases - Long-lasting immunity **Disadvantages:** - May require multiple doses or booster shots - Some individuals may experience mild side effects **Artificial Passive Immunity** **Type of Immunity:** Acquired through administration of preformed antibodies **How it Works:** - Antibodies produced by another individual or animal are injected into a person. - These antibodies provide immediate protection against a specific pathogen. **Examples:** - Immunoglobulin therapy for hepatitis B exposure - Antivenom for snake bites **Duration of Immunity:** - Short-term, usually lasting a few weeks to a few months **Advantages:** - Provides immediate protection against infection - Can be life-saving in certain situations **Disadvantages:** - Immunity is temporary and does not lead to long-lasting protection - The body does not develop its own immune memory - Potential for allergic reactions to the administered antibodies **Amoxicillin** **Classification:** Penicillin-antibiotic **Indications:** - Treatment of bacterial infections, including: - Respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis) - Skin and skin structure infections - Ear infections (otitis media) - Urinary tract infections - Certain sexually transmitted infections **Therapeutic Effects:** - Interferes with bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell death **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Diarrhea - Nausea - Vomiting - Rash - Allergic reactions (e.g., hives, swelling, difficulty breathing) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer amoxicillin orally or intravenously. - Monitor for allergic reactions, especially in patients with a penicillin allergy. - Assess for signs of superinfection (e.g., oral thrush, vaginal yeast infection). - Educate patients about the importance of completing the full course of therapy. **Patient Education:** - Take amoxicillin as prescribed. - Finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you feel better. - Report any signs of allergic reaction to your healthcare provider immediately. - Understand the potential side effects of amoxicillin and how to manage them. **Doxycycline** **Classification:** Tetracycline antibiotic **Indications:** - Treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections, including: - Respiratory tract infections - Skin and soft tissue infections - Sexually transmitted infections (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea)   - Tick-borne diseases (e.g., Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever) **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) - Photosensitivity - Tooth discoloration (in children) - Superinfection (e.g., oral thrush, vaginal yeast infection) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer doxycycline orally. - Avoid taking doxycycline with dairy products, antacids, or iron supplements, as these can reduce absorption. - Monitor for photosensitivity and advise patients to avoid excessive sun exposure. - Educate patients about the importance of completing the full course of therapy. **Patient Education:** - Take doxycycline as prescribed. - Avoid taking doxycycline with dairy products, antacids, or iron supplements. - Protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing. - Report any signs of allergic reaction or superinfection to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of doxycycline and how to manage them. **Cephalexin** **Classification:** Cephalosporin antibiotic **Indications:** - Treatment of various bacterial infections, including: - Skin and skin structure infections - Respiratory tract infections - Urinary tract infections - Bone and joint infections **Therapeutic Effects:** - Interferes with bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell death **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Diarrhea - Nausea - Vomiting - Rash - Allergic reactions (e.g., hives, swelling, difficulty breathing) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer cephalexin orally. - Monitor for allergic reactions, especially in patients with a penicillin allergy. - Assess for signs of superinfection (e.g., oral thrush, vaginal yeast infection). - Educate patients about the importance of completing the full course of therapy. **Patient Education:** - Take cephalexin as prescribed. - Finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you feel better. - Report any signs of allergic reaction to your healthcare provider immediately. - Understand the potential side effects of cephalexin and how to manage them. **Vancomycin** **Classification:** Glycopeptide antibiotic **Indications:** - Treatment of serious bacterial infections, especially those resistant to other antibiotics: - Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections - Severe Clostridium difficile infections - Serious skin and soft tissue infections **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Nephrotoxicity - Ototoxicity (hearing loss) - Red man syndrome (rash and flushing) - Thrombophlebitis (inflammation of a vein) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer vancomycin intravenously. - Monitor renal function closely. - Assess for signs of ototoxicity, such as tinnitus or hearing loss. - Infuse vancomycin slowly to reduce the risk of red man syndrome. - Educate patients about the importance of completing the full course of therapy. **Patient Education:** - Understand the importance of taking vancomycin as prescribed. - Report any signs of hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or difficulty hearing to your healthcare provider immediately. - Stay hydrated to minimize kidney damage. - Understand the potential side effects of vancomycin and how to manage them. **Ciprofloxacin** **Classification:** Fluoroquinolone antibiotic **Indications:** - Treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections, including: - Urinary tract infections - Respiratory tract infections - Skin and soft tissue infections - Bone and joint infections   - Gastrointestinal infections **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits bacterial DNA synthesis **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) - Tendinitis and tendon rupture - Peripheral neuropathy - Photosensitivity **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer ciprofloxacin orally or intravenously. - Monitor for signs of tendinitis or peripheral neuropathy. - Avoid taking ciprofloxacin with antacids, dairy products, or iron supplements, as these can reduce absorption. - Educate patients about the importance of completing the full course of therapy. **Patient Education:** - Take ciprofloxacin as prescribed. - Avoid taking ciprofloxacin with antacids, dairy products, or iron supplements. - Report any signs of tendon pain or numbness to your healthcare provider immediately. - Protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing. - Understand the potential side effects of ciprofloxacin and how to manage them. **Metronidazole** **Classification:** Nitroimidazole antibiotic **Indications:** - Treatment of various bacterial and parasitic infections, including: - Anaerobic bacterial infections (e.g., abscesses, pneumonia) - Bacterial vaginosis - Trichomoniasis - Helicobacter pylori infection (in combination with other medications) **Therapeutic Effects:** - Interferes with DNA synthesis in susceptible microorganisms **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) - Metallic taste - Headache - Dizziness - Neurological side effects (e.g., seizures, peripheral neuropathy) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer metronidazole orally or intravenously. - Avoid alcohol consumption while taking metronidazole, as it can cause severe nausea and vomiting. - Monitor for neurological side effects, especially in patients with underlying neurological conditions. - Educate patients about the importance of completing the full course of therapy. **Patient Education:** - Take metronidazole as prescribed. - Avoid alcohol consumption while taking metronidazole. - Report any signs of neurological symptoms (e.g., numbness, tingling, seizures) to your healthcare provider immediately. - Understand the potential side effects of metronidazole and how to manage them **Baclofen** **Classification:** Skeletal muscle relaxant **Indications:** - Treatment of spasticity associated with spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological disorders **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits the release of excitatory neurotransmitters in the spinal cord, reducing muscle spasticity **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Drowsiness - Fatigue - Dizziness - Nausea - Constipation - Muscle weakness **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer baclofen orally or intrathecally. - Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression, especially with high doses. - Gradually taper the dosage when discontinuing treatment to avoid withdrawal symptoms. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. **Patient Education:** - Take baclofen as prescribed. - Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking baclofen. - Be cautious when performing activities that require alertness, such as driving. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of baclofen and how to manage them. **Diazepam** **Classification:** Benzodiazepine **Indications:** - Anxiety disorders - Muscle spasms - Seizures - Sedation before medical procedures **Therapeutic Effects:** - Enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA, reducing anxiety and muscle tension **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Drowsiness - Sedation - Dizziness - Impaired coordination - Respiratory depression (at high doses) - Dependence and withdrawal symptoms with prolonged use **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer diazepam orally, intramuscularly, or intravenously. - Monitor for respiratory depression, especially in elderly or debilitated patients. - Avoid abrupt discontinuation of diazepam to prevent withdrawal symptoms. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and avoiding alcohol and other CNS depressants. **Patient Education:** - Take diazepam as prescribed. - Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking diazepam. - Be cautious when performing activities that require alertness, such as driving. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of diazepam and how to manage them. - Do not stop taking diazepam abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider. **Phenobarbital** **Classification:** Barbiturate **Indications:** - Seizure disorders (e.g., epilepsy) - Sedation - Insomnia **Therapeutic Effects:** - Enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA, reducing neuronal excitability **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Drowsiness - Sedation - Dizziness - Impaired coordination - Respiratory depression - Dependence and withdrawal symptoms with prolonged use - Cognitive impairment **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer phenobarbital orally or intravenously. - Monitor for respiratory depression, especially in elderly or debilitated patients. - Avoid abrupt discontinuation of phenobarbital to prevent withdrawal symptoms. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and avoiding alcohol and other CNS depressants. **Patient Education:** - Take phenobarbital as prescribed. - Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking phenobarbital. - Be cautious when performing activities that require alertness, such as driving. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of phenobarbital and how to manage them. - Do not stop taking phenobarbital abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider. **Alendronate** **Classification:** Bisphosphonate **Indications:** - Osteoporosis - Paget\'s disease of bone **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits osteoclast activity, reducing bone resorption **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Esophageal irritation - Gastritis - Nausea - Abdominal pain - Jaw pain (osteonecrosis of the jaw) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer alendronate orally. - Take on an empty stomach with plain water, at least 30 minutes before food or other medications. - Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication. - Monitor for signs of esophageal irritation or jaw pain. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and following administration guidelines. **Patient Education:** - Take alendronate exactly as prescribed. - Take the medication on an empty stomach with plain water, at least 30 minutes before food or other medications. - Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication. - Report any signs of esophageal irritation, jaw pain, or other adverse effects to your healthcare provider. - Understand the importance of regular dental check-ups while taking alendronate. **Calcitonin** **Classification:** Hormone replacement therapy **Indications:** - Paget\'s disease of bone - Postmenopausal osteoporosis - Osteoporosis in men **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits osteoclast activity, reducing bone resorption **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Flushing - Nausea - Vomiting - Diarrhea - Rash **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer calcitonin by nasal spray or injection. - Monitor for allergic reactions, especially with the nasal spray. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that may affect bone metabolism. **Patient Education:** - Take calcitonin as prescribed. - Report any signs of allergic reaction to your healthcare provider immediately. - Understand the potential side effects of calcitonin and how to manage them. - Discuss the importance of regular bone mineral density tests with your healthcare provider. **Estrogen** **Classification:** Hormone replacement therapy **Indications:** - Treatment of menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness) - Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis **Therapeutic Effects:** - Replaces declining estrogen levels, alleviating menopausal symptoms and protecting bone health **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Breast tenderness - Fluid retention - Bloating - Headache - Mood changes - Increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and certain cancers (e.g., breast, endometrial) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer estrogen orally, transdermally, or vaginally. - Monitor for signs of blood clots, such as leg pain, swelling, or shortness of breath. - Educate patients about the importance of regular check-ups and breast exams. - Consider the risks and benefits of hormone therapy, especially for long-term use. **Patient Education:** - Take estrogen as prescribed. - Report any unusual bleeding, severe headaches, or chest pain to your healthcare provider immediately. - Understand the potential risks and benefits of hormone therapy. - Discuss the importance of regular check-ups and breast exams with your healthcare provider. **Finasteride** **Classification:** 5-alpha reductase inhibitor **Indications:** - Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) - Male pattern hair loss **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate enlargement and hair loss   **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Decreased libido - Erectile dysfunction - Impotence - Breast tenderness and enlargement **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer finasteride orally. - Educate patients about the potential risk of sexual dysfunction and the need to inform their healthcare provider if these symptoms occur. - Advise patients to avoid handling crushed or broken tablets, as the medication may be absorbed through the skin. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that affect liver enzymes. **Patient Education:** - Take finasteride as prescribed. - Understand the potential risk of sexual dysfunction and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. - Avoid handling crushed or broken tablets. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of finasteride and how to manage them. **Sildenafil** **Classification:** Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor **Indications:** - Erectile dysfunction **Therapeutic Effects:** - Relaxes smooth muscle in the penis, allowing increased blood flow and facilitating erection **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Headache - Flushing - Dyspepsia - Nasal congestion - Visual disturbances (e.g., blue-tint vision) - Back pain - Muscle aches **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer sildenafil orally, usually about one hour before sexual activity. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with nitrates. - Monitor for cardiovascular risk factors and discuss with the healthcare provider. **Patient Education:** - Take sildenafil as prescribed. - Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can impair sexual function. - Do not take sildenafil with nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) due to the risk of severe hypotension. - Report any serious side effects, such as chest pain or prolonged erection, to your healthcare provider immediately. - Understand the potential side effects of sildenafil and how to manage them. **Tamsulosin** **Classification:** Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker **Indications:** - Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) **Therapeutic Effects:** - Relaxes smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urinary flow **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Dizziness - Orthostatic hypotension - Nasal congestion - Fatigue - Headache - Ejaculation disorders **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer tamsulosin orally. - Monitor for orthostatic hypotension, especially in elderly patients. - Educate patients about the potential for dizziness and the importance of rising slowly from a sitting or lying position. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that affect blood pressure. **Patient Education:** - Take tamsulosin as prescribed. - Rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to minimize dizziness. - Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking tamsulosin. - Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of tamsulosin and how to manage them. **Furosemide** **Classification:** Loop diuretic **Indications:** - Edema associated with congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and kidney disease - Hypertension **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the loop of Henle, leading to increased urine output **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Electrolyte imbalances (hypokalemia, hyponatremia) - Dehydration - Dizziness - Headache - Ototoxicity (hearing loss) **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer furosemide orally or intravenously. - Monitor for electrolyte imbalances, especially potassium. - Assess for signs of dehydration, such as decreased urine output, dry mouth, or dizziness. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and reporting any adverse effects. **Patient Education:** - Take furosemide as prescribed. - Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. - Report any signs of dehydration, such as decreased urine output, dry mouth, or dizziness, to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of furosemide and how to manage them. - Discuss the importance of regular blood tests to monitor electrolyte levels with your healthcare provider. **Hydrochlorothiazide** **Classification:** Thiazide diuretic **Indications:** - Hypertension - Edema associated with congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and kidney disease **Therapeutic Effects:** - Inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule, leading to increased urine output **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Electrolyte imbalances (hypokalemia, hyponatremia) - Dehydration - Dizziness - Headache - Photosensitivity **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer hydrochlorothiazide orally. - Monitor for electrolyte imbalances, especially potassium. - Assess for signs of dehydration, such as decreased urine output, dry mouth, or dizziness. - Educate patients about the importance of taking medication as prescribed and reporting any adverse effects. **Patient Education:** - Take hydrochlorothiazide as prescribed. - Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. - Report any signs of dehydration, such as decreased urine output, dry mouth, or dizziness, to your healthcare provider. - Understand the potential side effects of hydrochlorothiazide and how to manage them. - Discuss the importance of regular blood tests to monitor electrolyte levels with your healthcare provider. **Spironolactone** **Classification:** Potassium-sparing diuretic **Indications:** - Hypertension - Heart failure - Primary aldosteronism - Edema associated with cirrhosis **Therapeutic Effects:** - Blocks the action of aldosterone, reducing sodium and water reabsorption and increasing potassium retention **Adverse Effects/Side Effects:** - Hyperkalemia - Gynecomastia - Impotence - Irregular menstrual periods **Nursing Considerations:** - Administer spironolactone orally. - Monitor serum potassium levels closely. - Educate patients about the importance of avoiding potassium supplements and potassium-rich foods while taking spironolactone. - Consider potential drug interactions, especially with other medications that affect potassium levels. **Patient Education:** - Take spironolactone as prescribed. - Avoid potassium supplements and potassium-rich foods while taking spironolactone. - Report any signs of muscle weakness, fatigue, or irregular heartbeats to your healthcare provider immediately.