Drug Study

Domperidone

Motilium (1 tab, 100 mg)

Classification: Anti-emetic and anti-vertigo

Desired Dosage and Directions for use: Acute conditions

(mainly nausea, vomiting, hiccup)

Adults: Two tablets (20 mg) 3 to 4 times per day, 15 to 30 minutes before meals and, if

necessary, before retiring.

Chronic conditions (mainly dyspepsia) Adults: One tablet (10 mg) taken 3 times per day,

15 to 30 minutes before meals and, if necessary, before retiring. The dosage may be

doubled.

Mode of Action: Domperidone is a dopamine-receptor blocking agent. Its action on the

dopamine-receptors in the chemo-emetic trigger zone produces an anti-emetic effect.

Interactions:

Concomitant administration of anti-cholinergic drugs may inhibit the anti-

dyspeptic effects of MOTILIUM.

Anti-muscarinic agents and opioid analgesics may antagonize the effect of

MOTILIUM

MOTILIUM suppresses the peripheral effects (digestive disorders, nausea and

vomiting) of dopaminergic agonists.

Since MOTILIUM has gastro-kinetic effects, it could influence the absorption of

concomitant orally administered medicines, particularly those with sustained

release or enteric coated formulations.

As MOTILIUM interferes with serum prolactin levels, it may interfere with other

hypoprolactinaemic agents and with some diagnostic tests.

Antacids and anti-secretory agents lower the oral bioavailability of domperidone.

They should be taken after meals and not before meals, i.e. they should not be

taken simultaneously with MOTILIUM.

Reduced gastric acidity impairs the absorption of domperidone.

Oral bioavailability is decreased by prior administration of cimetidine or sodium

bicarbonate

Side Effects:

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Allergic reactions, such as rash or urticaria, have been reported.

Abdominal cramps have been reported.

Dystonic reactions (extrapyramidal phenomena) may occur.

Reversible raised serum prolactin levels have been observed which may lead to

galactorrhoea and gynaecomastia.

Hypertensive crises in patients with phaeochromocytoma may occur with

administration of domperidone.

Where the blood brain barrier is not fully developed (mainly in young babies) or is

impaired, the possible occurrence of neurological side-effects cannot be totally

excluded

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Assess for extra-pyramidal effects such as jerking and tongue protrusion.

2. Check for hypotension.

Imdur

Durule (60 mg ½ tab OD @ HS)

Classification: Anti-anginal

Desired Dosage: 60 mg once daily in the morning, may be

increased to 120 mg daily in the morning.

If headache occurs, the dose may initially be reduced to

30 mg daily for the 1st 2-4 days.

Mode of Action: The principal pharmacological action of isosorbide-5-mononitrate, an

active metabolite of isosorbide dinitrate, is relaxation of the vascular smooth muscle,

producing vasodilatation of both arteries and veins, with the latter effect predominating.

The effect of the treatment is dependent of the dose. Low plasma concentrations lead to

venous dilatation, resulting in peripheral pooling of blood, decreased venous return and

reduction in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (preload). High plasma concentrations

also dilate the arteries reducing systemic vascular resistance and arterial pressure

leading to a reduction in cardiac afterload.

Isosorbide-5-mononitrate may also have a direct dilating effect on the coronary arteries.

By reducing the end-diastolic pressure and volume, the preparation lowers the

intramural pressure, thereby leading to an improvement in the sub-endocardial blood

flow. The net effect when administering isosorbide-5-mononitrate is therefore a reduced

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workload of the heart and an improved oxygen supply/demand balance in the

myocardium.

Interactions: Concomitant administration of Imdur and phosphodiesterase type 5

inhibitors can potentiate the vasodilatory effect of Imdur with the potential results of

serious side effects as syncope or myocardial infarction.

Side Effects:

Most of the adverse reactions are pharmacodynamically mediated and dose

dependent. Headache may occur when treatment is initiated, but usually

disappears during continued treatment.

Hypotension with symptoms eg, dizziness and nausea with syncope in isolated

cases, has occasionally been reported. These symptoms generally disappear

during continued treatment.

Cardiovascular System: Common: Hypotension, tachycardia

Central Nervous System: Common: Headache, dizziness. Rare: Fainting.

Gastrointestinal: Common: Nausea. Uncommon: Vomiting, diarrhea.

Musculoskeletal: Very Rare: Myalgia.

Skin: Rare: Rash, pruritus.

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Check for hypotension.

2. Put patient on bed rest because of fainting. Provide supervision when ambulating.

3. Perform nonpharmacologic measures for nausea and vomiting such as letting client to

drink weak tea, Gatorade, carbonated beverages, pedialyte and eat gelatin, crackers

and dry toast.

Calcium Carbonate

(1 tab tid)

Classification: Electrolyte replacement or

supplements. Antacid

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Desired Dosage: 500 mg (200 mg Ca), 600 mg (240 mg Ca), 650 mg (260 mg Ca), 667

mg (266.8 mg Ca), 1 g (400 mg Ca), 1.25 mg (500 mg Ca), 1.5 mg (600 mg Ca)

Mode of Action: Essential for nervous, muscular, and skeletal systems. Maintain cell

membrane and capillary permeability. Act as an activator in the transmission of nerve

impulses and contraction of cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscles. It is essential for

bone formation and blood coagulation. It is also used a replacement of calcium in

deficiency states. It controls of hyperphosphatemia in end-stage renal disease without

promoting aluminum absorption.

Interactions: Hypercalcemia increases the risk of digoxin toxicity. Chronic use with

antacids in renal insufficiency may lead to milk-alkali syndrome. Ingestion by mouth may

decrease the absorption of orally administered tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones,

phenytoin, and iron salts. Excessive amounts may decrease the effects of calcium

channel blockers, atenolol. Concurrent use with diuretics may result in hypercalcemia.

Side Effects:

CNS: syncope, tingling

CV: cardiac arrest, arrythmias, bradycardia

GI: constipation, nausea, vomting

GU: calculi, hypercalciuruia

Local: phlebitis (IV only)

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Monitor VS especially BP and PR.

2. Obtain ECG result.

3. Asses for heartburn, indigestion, abdominal pain.

4. Monitor serum calcium before treatment.

5. Assess for nausea and vomiting, anorexia, thirst, severe constipation.

Metoprolol

Beloc, Betaloc Durules, Lopresor, Metoprol (100

mg 1 tab q 12 hrs)

Classification: Anti-anginal and Anti-hypertensive:

Beta-blockers

Desired Dosage: (PO) 25-100 mg/day as a single

dose initially divided or 2 divided doses; maybe

increased q 7 days as needed up to 450 mg/day.

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Mode of Action: Blocks stimulation of beta1 (myocardial)-adrenergic receptors. It does

not usually affect beta2 (pulmonary, vascular, uterine)-adrenergic receptor sites. It also

decreases blood pressure and heart rate. It decreases frequency of attacks of angina

pectoris, and decreases rate of cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization in patients

with heart failure.

Interaction:

Additive effect with catecholamine-depleting drugs e.g. reserpine and MAOIs.

May antagonise β1-adrenergic stimulating effects of sympathomimetics.

Additive negative effects on SA or AV nodal conduction with cardiac glycosides,

nondihydropyridine calcium-channel blockers.

Increased oral bioavailability with aluminium/magnesium-containing antacids.

Paradoxical response to epinephrine may occur. Increased plasma

concentrations with CYP2D6 inhibitors

(e.g. bupropion, cimetidine,diphenhydramine, fluoxetine,

hydroxycholoquine, paroxetine, propafenone, quinidine,ritonavir, terbinafine,

thioridazine).

Increased risk of hypotension and heart failure with myocardial depressant

general anaesthetics (e.g. diethyl ether).

Risk of pulmonary hypertension with vasodilators e.g. hydralazine in uraemic

patients.

Reduced plasma levels with rifampicin.

May increase negative inotropic and negative dromotropic effect of anti-

arrhythmic drugs e.g. quinidine and amiodarone.

Propafenone may increase serum levels of metoprolol.

Concurrent use with indomethacin may reduce the antihypertensive efficacy of β-

blocker.

May reduce clearance of lidocaine.

May increase effects of hypoglycemics.

Efficacy may be reduced by isoprenaline.

Concurrent use with digoxin may lead to additive bradycardia.

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Monitor blood pressure, and pulse frequently.

2. Monitor intake and output ratios and daily weight.

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3. Assess routinely for signs and symptoms of CHF (dyspnea, rales, crackles, weight

gain, peripheral edema, jugular venous distention)

4. Take apical pulse before administering. If <50bpm or if arrhythmia occurs, withhold

medication and notify health care professional.

5. Administer metoprolol with meals or directly after eating.

6. Caution patient minimize activities that require alertness because metoprolol can

cause dizziness.

7. Caution patient that this medication can increase sensitivity to cold.

8. Instruct to avoid caffeinated drinks like teas and colas.

9. Monitor blood glucose levels especially if weakness, malaise, irritability, or fatigue

occurs.

10. Reinforce the need to continue additional therapies for hypertension such as sodium

restriction, stress reduction, regular exercise)

11. Emphasize compliance to the medication.

Prednisone

Sterapred (5000 u 2x/week SC)

Classification: Systemic corticosteroids, anti-

asthmatics

Desired Dosage: (PO) 5-60 mg/day as single dose or

in divided doses.

Mode of Action: It suppresses inflammation and the normal immune response.

Prednisone is biologically inert and converted to the predominantly prednisolone in the

liver. It decreases inflammation by suppression of migration of polymorphonuclear

leukocytes and reversal of increased capillary permeability; suppresses the immune

system by reducing activity and vol of the lymphatic system; suppresses adrenal function

at high doses.

Interaction:

Increase risk of hypokalemia with thiazide and loop diuretics, or amphotericin B.

May increase requirement for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents.

Pheytoin, Phenobarbital, and rifampin increase metabolism; may decrease

effectiveness.

At chronic cases, may decrease antibody response to and increase risk of

adverse reactions from live-virus vaccines.

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Antacids decrease absorption of it.

Increase risk of GI ulceration with NSAIDs.

Side Effects:

Insomnia, nervousness, increased appetite, indigestion,

dizziness/lightheadedness, headache, hirsutism, hypopigmentation, diabetes

mellitus, glucose intolerance, hyperglycaemia, arthralgia, cataracts, glaucoma,

epistaxis, diaphoresis, Cushing's syndrome, edema, fractures, hallucinations,

hypertension, muscle-wasting, osteoporosis, pancreatitis, pituitary-adrenal axis

suppression, seizures

Nursing Responsibilities.

1. Assess for adverse effects

2. Implement safety measures to prevent falls and fractures.

3. Monitor clients with diabetes for hyperglycemia.

4. Assess for fluid and electrolyte imbalance.

5. Assess stools for melena.

6. Administer with food to minimize gastric irritation.

7. Instruct to avoid people with active infection because resistance is low.

8. Instruct to avoid activities that could cause bone fracture.

9. Not to take NSAIDs unless directed.

10. Increase intake of protein, calcium, and potassium.

Albumin 25%

Albuminar, Albutein, Buminate, Normal Human Serum Albumin,

Plasbumin (50cc + Furosemide 20 mg x 4 to OD)

Classification: Volume expanders, blood products, colloids

Desired Dosage: (IV) 12.5-50 g/day in 3-4 divided doses.

(Availability Injection: 250 mg/mL)

Mode of Action: It provides colloidal oncotic pressure, which

serves to mobilize fluid from extravascular tissues back into intravascular space. It

increases intravascular fluid volume.

Interactions: Do not mix with protein hydrolysates, amino acid solution and alcohol.

Side Effects:

CNS: Headache

CV: Pulmonary edema, fluid overload, hypertension, hypotension, tachycardia

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GI: Vomiting, increased salivation, nausea

Derm: Rash, urticaria

MS: Back pain

Chills, fever, flushing

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Monitor vital signs, and intake and output.

2. Assess for signs of vascular overload such as elevated CVD, rales/crackles, dyspnea,

hypertension, jugular venous distention) during and after administration.

3. Monitor serum sodium levels because it may cause increase concentrations.

4. Solution should be clear amber, and do not administer solutions that are discolored or

contain particulate matter.

Sodium Bicarbonate

Baking Soda, Bell-Ans, Citrocarbonate, Neut, Soda Mint (650 mg 1

tab tid)

Classification: Anti-ulcer agent and alkalinizing agent

Desired Dosage: Alkalinization of urine: (PO) 48 mEq or 4 g

initially. Then 1-2 g q4 hr or 1 tsp of powder q4 hr as needed.

Metabolic acidosis: >4.8 g/day as needed.

Mode of Action: Acts as an alkalinizing agent by releasing bicarbonate ions. It is used to

alkalinize urine and promote excretion of certain drugs in overdosage situations.

Interactions: Increase toxicity of amphetamins, ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, flecainide,

quinidine and quinine. It decreases effects of lithium, chlorpropamide and salicylates due

to increased clearance. It may affect the absorption of certain drugs due to raised intra-

gastric pH.

Side Effects: Metabolic alkalosis; mood changes, tiredness, shortness of breath, muscle

weakness, irregular heartbeat; muscle hypertonicity, twitching, tetany; hypernatraemia,

hyperosmolality, hypocalcaemia, hypokalaemia; stomach cramps, flatulence.

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Assess for signs of acidosis (disorientation, headache, weakness, dyspnea,

hyperventilation), alkalosis (confusion, irritability, paresthesia, tetany, altered breathing

pattern), hypernatremia (edema, weight gain, hypertension, tachycardia, fever, flushed

skin, mental irritability), or hypokalemia (weakness, fatigue, arrhythmias, polyuria,

polydypsia)

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2. Assess fluid balance (intake and output, daily weight, edema, lung sounds)

3. Take med with full glass of water.

4. Monitor serum electrolyte concentrations, serum osmolarity, acid-base balance, and

renal function prior to and periodically through out the therapy.

Clonazepam

Rivotril (1/4 tab daily)

Classification: Anticonvulsant

Desired Dosage: 0.5 mg 3x daily

Mode of Action: It produces sedative effects in the CNS,

probably by stimulating inhibitory GABA receptors. It

prevents seizures and decreases manifestations of panic disorder.

Interactions:

CNS depression with alcohol, antidepressants, antihistamines, other

benzodiazepines, and opioid analgesics.

Cimetidine, hormonal contraceptives, disulfiram, fluoxetine, isoniazid,

ketoconazole, metoprolol, propoxyphene, propanolol, or valproic acid may

decrease metabolism of clonazepam.

Sedative effects with theophylline.

Side Effects: Fatigue, somnolence, muscular hypotonia, coordination disturbances,

aggressiveness, irritability or agitation.

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Assess for drowsiness, unsteadiness, and clumsiness. These symptoms are dose

related and most sever during initial therapy.

2. Administer with food to minimize gastric irritation.

3. Have CBC and liver function test results evaluated periodically because it may cause

increase in serum bilirubin, AST and ALT.

Epoetin B

Recormon (5000 u SC)

Classification: Hematopoeitic Agent

Desired Dosage:

50-100 u/kg 3x weekly initially, then adjust dose base

on Hct.

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Anemia w/ CRF: Correction phase SC inj Initially, 3 x 20 iu/kg/wk, may be

increased every 4 wk by 3 x 20 iu/kg/wk if the increase of packed cell vol (PCV) is

inadequate (< 0.5% per wk). Wkly dose can be divided into daily doses or administered

as a single dose. Max: 720 iu/kg/wk. IV inj Initially, 3 x 40 iu/kg/wk. Dose may be

increased after 4 wk to 3 x 80 iu/kg/wk. If further increments are needed, increase at 20

iu/kg 3 times wkly at mthly intervals. Max: 720 iu/kg/wk.

Maintenance phase In SC inj, to maintain a PCV of 30-35%, initially reduce to ½

of the previously administered amount. Subsequently, adjust dose at 1-2 wk intervals

individually for the patient. Patient stable on a once-wkly dosing regimen may be

switched to once every 2 wk administration. 

Prevention of anaemia of prematurity SC inj 3 x 250 iu/kg/wk for 6 wk. 

Increasing the amount of autologous blood SC or IV inj Twice wkly over 4 wk.

Max IV Dose: 1,600 iu/kg/wk. Max SC Dose: 1,200 iu/kg/wk. 

Symptomatic anaemia in cancer SC inj 1 inj/wk or 3-7 divided doses/wk.

Recommended Dose: Initially, 30,000 iu/wk (approx 450 iu/kg body wt/wk based on ave

wt). Treatment is indicated if haemoglobin value is ≤11 g/dL (6.83 mmol/L), should not

exceed 13 g/dL (8.07 mmol/L). After 4 wk therapy, if haemoglobin value increased by at

least 1 g/dL (0.62 mmol/L), continue therapy; if not, double the wkly dose. After 8 wk, if

value has not increased by at least 1 g/dL, discontinue therapy. After the end of

chemotherapy, continue therapy up to 4 wk. Max: ≤60,000 iu/wk. When therapeutic

objective has been achieved, reduce dose by 25-50% to maintain haemoglobin at that

level, may reduce further to ensure haemoglobin level does not exceed 13 g/dL. If >2

g/dL (1.3 mmol/L) haemoglobin rise in 4 wk, reduce dose by 25-50%.

Mode of Action:

Epoetin beta is identical in its amino acid and carbohydrate composition to erythropoietin

that has been isolated from the urine of anemic patients. Erythropoietin is a glycoprotein

that stimulates the formation of erythrocytes from precursors of the stem cell

compartment. It acts as a mitosis-stimulating factor and differentiation hormone.

After administration of epoetin beta, the number of erythrocytes, the Hb values and

reticulocyte counts increase as well as the 59Fe-incorporation rate. An increased 3H-

thymidine incorporation in the erythroid-nucleated spleen cells has been found in

vitro (mouse spleen cell culture) after incubation with epoetin beta.

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Interaction: The clinical results obtained so far do not indicate any interaction of

Recormon with other substances. Incompatibilities: To avoid incompatibility or loss of

activity, do not mix with other drugs or infusion solutions.

Side Effects:

CNS: Seizures, headache

CV: Hypertension, thrombotic events such as MI or stroke

Derm: Transient rashes

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Monitor blood pressure before and after therapy. Additional antihypertensive drug

maybe required during initiation of therapy.

2. Monitor Hct and other hematopoietic parameters (CBC with differential and platelet

count)

3. Monitor renal function studies and electrolytes closely. Increase in BUN, creatinine,

uric acid, phosphorus, and potassium may occur.

4. Do not shake vial because inactivation of medication may occur.

5. Discard vial immediately after withdrawing dose from single-use 1-ml vial. Refrigerate

multi-dose 2-ml vial; stable for 21 days after initial entry.

6. Stress importance of compliance with dietary restrictions, medications, and dialysis.

Foods high in iron and low in potassium include liver, pork, veal, beef, mustard and

turnip greens, etc…

Gabapentin

Neurontin (300 mg 1 tab @ night)

Classification: Analgesic adjuncts, anticonvulsants, mood

stabilizers

Desired Dosage: CCr 30-60 mL/min—300 mg 2x daily; 15-

30 mL/min—300 mg 1x daily.

Mode of Action: Mechanism of action is not known. It may

affect transport of amino acids across and stabilize

neuronal membranes. It can decrease incidence of seizures. Gabapentin is structurally

related to the neurotransmitter GABA but is neither a GABA agonist nor antagonist.

Gabapentin-binding sites have been identified throughout the brain tissues e.g.

neocortex and hippocampus. However, the exact mechanism of action is still unknown.

Interactions:

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Antacids may decrease absorption of gabapentin.

Increase risk of CNS depression with other CNS depressants like alcohol,

antihistamines, opioids, and sedatives.

Morphine may increase level of gabapentin and increase risk of toxicity.

Side Effects:

Somnolence, dizziness, ataxia, weakness, paraesthesia, fatigue, headache; nystagmus,

diplopia; nausea, vomiting, wt gain, dyspepsia; rhinitis; tremor; leucopenia; altered LFTs;

Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Caution patient to avoid activities that require alertness to prevent injury d/t dizziness.

2. Provide supervision when patient is ambulating.

3. Monitor for side effects and instruct patient to refer if adverse effects are felt.

Sennosides

Senokot

Classification: Laxative

Desired Dosage: 12-50 mg 1-2x daily

Mode of Action: Active components of senna (sennosides) alter

water and electrolyte transport in the large intestine, resulting in

accumulation of water and increased peristalsis.

Interactions: May decrease absorption of other orally administered drugs because of

decreased transit time.

Side Effects:

GI: cramping, diarrhea, nausea

GU: pink-red or brown-black discoloration of urine

F & E: electrolyte abnormalities

Misc: laxative dependence

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Asses patient for abdominal distention, presence of bowel sounds, and usual pattern

of bowel function.

2. Assess for color, consistency, and amount of stool produced.

3. Take with full glass of water. Ideally, administer at bedtime for evacuation 6-12 hours

later. Administer on an empty stomach for a rapid result.

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4. Advise patient that laxatives should be used only for short-term therapy. Long-term

therapy may cause electrolyte imbalance and dependence,

5. Encourage patient to use other forms of bowel regulation such as increasing bulk in

the diet, increasing fluid intake, and increasing mobility.

6. Inform that medication may cause change in his urine’s color to pink, red, violet,

yellow or brown.

Berodual (neb)

Ipratropnium Br, Fenoterol HBr

Classification: Anticholinergic

Indication: Acute prevention and treatment of symptoms of chronic

obstructive airway disorders with reversible bronchospasm

(e.g.bronchial asthma schronic bronchitis with or without emphysema)

Contraindication: Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomayopathy,

tachyarrhythmia.

Precaution: Diabetic patient with unstable metabolism, recent myocardial infarction,

severe organic heart or vascular disorder; transient dose dependent doer in serum K+;

hyperthyroidism; narrow-angle glaucoma; urinary outflow obstruction d/t prostatic

hypertrophy.

Side effects: Tremor, restlessness, palpitation, tachycardia, dizziness, head ache,

potentially serious hypokalemia, dryness of mouth, throat irritation, allrergic reactions,

cough.

Interactions: B2 adrenergics, systematically absorbed anticholinergics, xanthine

derivatives and corticosteroids may increase in effect and may occur on concurrent

administration of B2 blocker.

Availability & Prize: UDV solution for inhalation 4ml (₱58.85)

Inhalation solution 20 ml (₱932.00)

Metered aerosol 10ml (₱1,253.00)

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Norgesic Forte

Per norgesic tab- Ophenadrine citrate 35 mg + Paracetamol

450mg. Per norgesic forte tab- Ophenadrine

citrate 50 mg + Paracetamol 659mg.

Indication: For the relief of painful skeletal muscle spasm

associated with chronic low back pain, spasms and strains,

prolapsed intervertebral disc, muscle injury, non-articular

rheumatism (fibrisitis, myositis, & myalgia) whiplash injuries, tension head ache,

dysmenorrhea, and other acute or chronic painful muscular condition.

Dosage: Norgesic tab 1-2 tab TID.

Contraindications: Glaucoma; prostatic hypertrophy or bladder neck obstruction.

Precaution: Cardiac arrhythmias, tachycardia, cardiac decompensation, coronary

insuffiency, pregnancy.

Side effects: Nausea, dry mouth, blurred vision, rarely rash, drowsiness, dizziness, and

restlessness.

Prize: Norgesic Forte tab (₱21.00); Norgesic tab (₱14.00)

Cilostazol

Pletal

Classification: Antiplatelet

Action: Inhibits the enzyme cyclic adenosine monophosphate

(cAMP) phosphodiesterase III, which results in increased

cAMP in platelets and blood vessels, producing inhibition of

platelet aggregation and vasodilation.

Indication: Reduction of symptoms of intermittent claudication allowing increased

walking distance.

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, heart failure, active bleeding, hemostatic disorders.

Use cautiously with renal dysfunction.

Availability: 50,100 mg tablets

Dosage: 100 mg po BID @ least 30 minute before or 2 hours post breakfast and dinner.

Adverse effects: CNS – dizziness, head ache

CV – heart failure, tachycardia, palpitations

GI – diarrhea, nausea, flatulence, dyspepsia

Respiratory – cough, pharyngitis, rhinitis

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Others – peripheral edema, infection, back pain

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Assess patient for intermittent claudication

2. Administer on an n empty stomach, 1 hour before of 2 hours post meal.

3. Do not administer with grapefruit juice. May increase cilostazol levels.

4. Caution patient to avoid driving or other activities requiring alertness.

5. Advise patient to avoid smoking; nicotine constricts blood vessels.

6. Prevent injury which may cause bleeding.

- use soft bristled toothbrush.

- avoid sharp objects.

- instruct patient not to strain too much while defecating to avoid

perforating the rectal muscle.

Humulin 70/30

Insulin (mixtures)

Classification: Antidiabetics, hormones

Action: Lowers blood glucose by: stimulating glucose

uptake in skeletal muscle and fat, inhibiting hepatic

glucose production.

Contraindications: Hypoglycemia; allergy or hypersensitivy.

Precautions: In patient with real/hepatic impairment (may decrease insulin requirements)

Adverse effects: Endo – Hypoglycemia

Local – Erythema, lipodystrophy, pruritus, swelling

Misc – Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis

Drug-Drug interactions: B-blockers, clonidine and reserpine – may mask some of the

signs andsymptoms of hypoglycemia. Corticosteroids, thyroid supplements, estrogens,

isoniazid,niacin, phenothiazines and rifampin – increase insulin requirements. Alcohol,

ACE inhibitors, MAO inhibitors, oral hypoglycemic agents and salicylates – decrease

insulin requirements

Availability: (100 units/ml total) in 10 ml vials and 3 ml disposable delivery devices.

Nursing Interventions:

1. Assess for symptoms of hypoglycemia such as: anxiety, restlessness, tingling

in hands, feet, lips or tongue, chills, cold sweat, confusion, pale skin, difficulty

in concentration, drowsiness, excessive hunger, head ache, irritability,

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nightmares or trouble sleeping, nausea, tachycardia, tremor, weakness,

unsteady gait.

2. Assess for symptoms of hyperglycemia: confusion, drowsiness, flushed and

dry skin, rapid deep breathing, polyuria, loss of appetite, nausea & vomiting,

unusual thirst.

3. Monitor body weight periodically. Changes in weight may necessitate

changes in insulin dose.

4. Monitor blood glucose every 6 hours during therapy.

5. Note for toxicity and overdose: HYPOGLYCEMIA

- let patient ingest oral glucose

- if severe hypoglycemia: administer IV glucose, glucagon or epinephrine.

6. Store insulin in refrigerator. Do not use if cloudy, discolored or unusually

viscous.

7. Rotate site of infection.

8. Instruct patient on proper techniques for administration.

9. Explain to the patient that this medication controls hyperglycemia but does

not cure diabetes.

10. Emphasize the importance of compliance with nutritional guidelines and

regular exercise as directed.

Loperamide

Diar-aid caplets, Imodium, Imodium A-D, Kaopectate II caplets,

Maalox antidiarrheal caplets, Neo-Diaral, Pepto Diarrhea

control

Classification: Antidiarrheals

Indications: Adjunctive therapy of acute diarrhea. Chronic

diarrhea associated with inflammatory bowel disease decrease the volume of ileostomy

drainage.

Action: Inhibits peristalsis and prolongs transit time by a direct effect on nerves in the

intestinal muscle wall. Reduces fecal volume, increases fecal viscosity and bulk while

diminishing loss of fluid and electrolytes.

Therapeutic effects: Relief of diarrhea.

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Contraindications: Hypersensitivity; patients in whom constipation must be avoided;

abdominal pain of unknown cause, especially if associated with fever; alcohol

intolerance(liquid only).

Precautions: Hepatic dysfunction

Side effects: CNS – drowsiness , dizziness

GI – constipation, abdominal pain/distention/discomfort, dry mouth, nausea

and vomiting.

Misc – allergic reactions

Drug-Drug interactions: Increase CNS depression with other CNS depressants including

alcohol, antihistamines, opioid analgesics, and sedatives. Increase anticholinergic

properties with the other drugs having anticholinergic properties including

antidepressants and antihistamines.

Nursing Management:

1. Assess frequency and consistency of stools and bowel sounds prior to and

during therapy.

2. Assess skin turgor for dehydration.

3. Administer with clear fluids to help prevent dehydration which may

accompany diarrhea.

4. Instruct patient to take medication as directed. In acute diarrhea, medication

may be ordered after each unformed stool.

5. Advise patient that frequent mouth rinses and good oral hygiene may relieve

dry mouth.

6. Instruct patient to notify health care professional if diarrhea persist or if fever,

abdominal pain, or distention occurs.

Furosemide

Novosimide; PMS-Furosimide

Classification: Loop diuretics

Indications: Edema d/t heart failure, hepatic

impairment or renal disease. Hypertension.

Action: Inhibits the reabsorption of sodium and

chloride from the loop of Henle and distal renal tubule.

Increases renal excretion of water, sodium, chloride,

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magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Effectiveness persists in impaired renal function.

Decreased blood pressure.

Dosage: 1 tablet, 200 mg

Contraindication: Hypersensitivity; Cross-sensitivity with thiazides and sulfonamides may

occur; Hepatic coma or anuria; Some liquid products may contain alcohol, avoid in

patients with alcohol intolerance.

Precautions: Severe liver disease; electrolyte depression

Side effects: CNS – blurred vision, dizziness, head ache, vertigo

EENT – hearing loss, tinnitus

CV – hypotension

GI – anorexia, constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting

GU – excessive urination

Derm – photosensitivity, rash

F and E – dehydration

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Assess fluid status. Notify physician or other health care professional if thirst,

dry mouth, hypotension, or oliguria occurs.

2. Monitor blood pressure and pulse before and during administration.

3. Monitor blood glucose closely; may cause increased blood glucose level.

4. Caution patient to change positions slowly to minimize orthostatic

hypotension.

5. Advise patient to contact health care professional immediately if muscle

weakness, cramps, nausea, dizziness and numbness occurs.

6. Caution older patients or their caregivers about increased risk for falls.

Lactulose

Duphalac

Classification: Laxatives

Indications: Treatment of chronic constipation in adults and

geriatric patients. Adjunct in the management or portal- systemic

(hepatic) encephalopathy.

Action: Increases water and softens the stool. Lowers the pH of

the colon, which inhibits the diffusion of ammonia from the colon

into the blood, thereby reducing blood ammonia levels.

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Contraindication: Patients on low-galactose diets.

Precautions: Diabetes mellitus; excessive use may lead to dependence.

Side effects: GI – belching, cramps, distention, diarrhea

Endo – hyperglycemia

Drug-Drug interactions: should not be used with other laxatives in the treatment of

hepatic encephalopathy (leads to inability to determine optimal dose of lactulose). Anti-

infectives may diminish effectiveness in treatment of hepatic encephalopathy.

Dosage: 30 cc PO

Nursing Interventions:

1. Assess patient for abdominal distention, presence of bowel sounds, and

normal pattern of bowel function.

2. Assess color, consistency, and amount of stool produced.

3. May cause increased blood glucose levels in diabetic patients.

4. Encourage patient to increased oral fluid intake.

5. Caution patients that this medication may cause belching, flatulence, or

abdominal cramping. Health care professional should be notified if this

becomes bothersome or if diarrhea occurs.

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