Pharmacology & Therapeutic Interventions Flashcards

Which medication is a beta-blocker?

Answer: Metoprolol

Metoprolol is a commonly prescribed medication that belongs to the beta-blocker class of drugs. Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, leading to a slower heart rate and reduced blood pressure. This makes metoprolol effective in treating conditions such as hypertension, angina, and heart failure.

Why should labs be checked before giving vancomycin?

Answer: Monitor toxicity

Vancomycin is an antibiotic with a narrow therapeutic index, meaning the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small. It can cause nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) and ototoxicity (hearing damage), especially at higher concentrations. Therefore, monitoring serum vancomycin levels through lab tests is crucial to ensure the drug remains within a safe and effective range, preventing adverse effects.

What is a common side effect of opioids?

Answer: Respiratory depression

Opioids are potent pain relievers that act on the central nervous system, but they also depress the respiratory drive. This can lead to a decreased respiratory rate and depth, potentially causing hypoventilation and dangerously low oxygen levels. Respiratory depression is a serious and potentially life-threatening side effect that requires careful monitoring, especially with higher doses or in opioid-naive patients.

What is the antidote for heparin?

Answer: Protamine sulfate

Heparin is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent blood clots. In cases of heparin overdose or excessive bleeding, its anticoagulant effects need to be reversed. Protamine sulfate is the specific antidote for heparin, as it binds to heparin and forms a stable complex, neutralizing its anticoagulant activity and restoring normal blood clotting.

Which medication route provides the fastest effect?

Answer: IV

Intravenous (IV) administration delivers medication directly into the bloodstream, bypassing absorption barriers like the gastrointestinal tract or muscle tissue. This direct route ensures the drug reaches its target site rapidly and achieves therapeutic concentrations almost immediately. Consequently, IV administration provides the fastest onset of action compared to oral, intramuscular, or subcutaneous routes.

Furosemide belongs to which drug class?

Answer: Loop diuretic

Furosemide is a potent diuretic commonly known as a loop diuretic. It works by acting on the loop of Henle in the kidneys, inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride. This action leads to increased excretion of water, sodium, potassium, and chloride, effectively reducing fluid overload in conditions like heart failure, edema, and hypertension.

Why should injection sites be rotated?

Answer: Prevent tissue damage

Rotating injection sites is crucial to prevent localized tissue damage, such as lipohypertrophy (fatty lumps) or lipoatrophy (indentations), which can occur from repeated injections in the same area. Consistent rotation allows tissue to heal and recover, ensuring better absorption of medication and reducing discomfort or complications for the patient. This practice is especially important for medications given frequently, like insulin.

What should be monitored before administering digoxin?

Answer: Apical pulse

Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that strengthens heart contractions and slows the heart rate. Before administering digoxin, it is critical to assess the patient's apical pulse for a full minute to ensure it is within a safe range, typically above 60 beats per minute. Administering digoxin to a patient with a bradycardic pulse could further dangerously lower their heart rate.

Which medication helps reduce blood pressure?

Answer: Lisinopril

Lisinopril is an ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) inhibitor, a class of medications widely used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart failure. It works by blocking the enzyme that produces angiotensin II, a powerful vasoconstrictor, leading to relaxation of blood vessels and reduced blood volume. This action effectively lowers blood pressure and decreases the workload on the heart.