Pharm Adrenal, antihistamines and antitussive Drugs

Corticosteroids

Hormones secreted by adrenal cortex

Cushing Syndrome

Oversecrestion of Corticosteroids. SX- redistribution of body fat “moon face” hirsutism, ecchymosis

Addisons Dz

Undersecretion of corticosteroids. SX- Hyponatremia, Hypoglycemia, hyperkalemia, dehydration and weight loss

Steroids will always______

Raise BP and raise Blood Sugar

Indication for Corticosteroids

Causes Immunosepression by decr. inflammatory response

Cardiovascular Side effects of corticosteroids

Hypertension and electrolyte imbalances

CNS Side effects of corticosteroids

Nervousness and insomnia

Endocrine Side effects of corticosteroids

Cushing’s syndrome and hyperglycemia

GI Side effects of corticosteroids

Peptic ulcers

Integumentary Side effects of corticosteroids

Eccymosis and poor wound healing

Ocular Side effects of corticosteroids

Increases intraoccular pressure, glaucoma and cataracs

Other Side effects of corticosteroids

weight gain

Contraindications of Corticosteroid use

Cataracs, glaucoma, peptic ulcer dz, mental illness

Use with caution for corticosteriods

Diabetes, infection, Cardiac/liver/renal Dz

Identifying Corticosteroids

End in “-Sone” or “-Lone” ie. Cortisone, Prednisone, Prednisolone, Dexamethasone

Avoid _____ When taking Corticosteroids

Alcohol, Caffine and NSAIDs

Adrenal Crisis/ Adrenal Insufficiency

May result if you abruptly stop taking Corticosteroids, Have to taper off

Antihistamines

Blocks histamine receptors

Indication for Antihistamines

Seasonal allergies, colds, vertigo, motion sickness, insomnia and cough

Antitussives

Used to enhance pt comfort when coughing is harmful

Expectorants

Aid in the expectoration (coughing up) of excessive mucus