Adrenergic Agonists and Beta-Selective Agonists

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and critical information related to adrenergic agonists and their clinical implications.

Adrenergic Agonists

Drugs that mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system by stimulating adrenergic receptor sites.

Sympathomimetic Drugs

Another term for adrenergic agonists; drugs that mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.

Phenylephrine

An adrenergic agonist commonly found in OTC allergy and cold preparations.

Beta-Selective Agonists

A class of drugs used primarily to manage bronchial spasm and asthma, acting specifically on beta-adrenergic receptors.

Isoproterenol

A sympathomimetic drug used to stimulate beta-adrenergic receptors, affecting heart rate and bronchial dilation.

Tachycardia

A medical condition characterized by an abnormally fast heart rate, a potential adverse effect of adrenergic agonists.

Hypotension

Low blood pressure; adrenergic agonists may be used to support patients experiencing this.

Dopamine

A prototype drug used to correct hemodynamic imbalances present in shock.

Extravasation

The leakage of fluid from a blood vessel into surrounding tissue, a concern with adrenergic agonist use.

Beta-agonists

Drugs that act specifically on beta receptors to cause bronchodilation and relaxation of smooth muscles.

Adverse Effects of Adrenergic Agonists

Can include arrhythmias, hypertension, palpitations, dyspnea, nausea, vomiting, and others.

Contraindications for Isoproterenol

Include allergy to the drug, pulmonary hypertension, and some cardiac conditions.

Central Nervous System Effects

Possible symptoms from adrenergic agonists include anxiety, headache, and restlessness.

Phentolamine

An alpha adrenergic blocking agent used to counteract adverse vasoconstrictive actions in cases of extravasation.

Hypokalemia

A condition of low potassium levels in the blood that can occur due to the release of aldosterone with sympathetic stimulation.

Caution in Older Adults

Older patients may require lower doses of adrenergic agonists due to renal or hepatic impairment and increased risk for adverse effects.

Monitoring Requirements

Close monitoring of vital signs, ECG, urine output, and potential adverse effects is essential during adrenergic agonist therapy.