NURS 1540 Unit 4 Medications Study Guide

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering Unit 4 medications including hypnotics, corticosteroids, anticholinergics, antineoplastics, antidepressants, and antipsychotics.

zolpidem (Ambien)

A hypnotic that produces CNS depression used to treat insomnia; side effects include amnesia, daytime drowsiness, dizziness, and a “drugged feeling.”

prednisone (Deltasone)

A corticosteroid used as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant for respiratory, GI, and integumentary disorders; requires tapering when discontinuing large doses.

Cushingoid appearance

A physical side effect associated with the use of the corticosteroid prednisone (Deltasone).

atropine (AtroPen)

An anticholinergic that blocks acetylcholine to inhibit parasympathetic nerve impulses; used to decrease oral/respiratory secretions, treat overactive bladder, or sinus bradycardia.

Anticholinergic Side Effect Mnemonic

Described as “hot as a hare, dry as a bone, red as a beet, mad as a hatter and blind as a bat.”

megestrol (Megace)

A man-made version of progesterone used to treat breast and endometrial cancer, and frequently used to increase appetite.

fluoxetine (Prozac)

A Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) used for depression that may take 4-6 weeks to show positive changes; requires assessment for suicidal ideation.

lorazepam (Ativan)

A benzodiazepine antianxiety agent and adjunct analgesic that causes muscle relaxation and CNS depression.

bupropion (Wellbutrin)

An antidepressant and antismoking agent that inhibits norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake; used for Seasonal Affective disorder and smoking cessation.

risperidone (Risperdal)

An antipsychotic used to treat Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder; side effects include parkinsonism, akathisia, and dystonia.

Neuroleptic Malignant syndrome

A serious side effect of risperidone characterized by high fever, sweating, stiff muscles, confusion, and changes in breathing, heart rhythm, and BP.

Tardive Dyskinesia

Abnormal repetitive involuntary movements that can occur after long-term use of the antipsychotic risperidone.