PHA 101 CH. 17/19 Stimulants, Depressants, and Antiseizure Drugs Flashcards

Flashcards for reviewing lecture notes on stimulants, depressants, and antiseizure drugs.

CNS Stimulants Medically approved uses

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Narcolepsy, Reversal of respiratory depression

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Characteristics

Inattentiveness, inability to concentrate, Restlessness, hyperactivity, impulsivity, Inability to complete tasks, poor coordination

Amphetamines Action

Stimulate release of norepinephrine and dopamine

Amphetamines Adverse reactions

Tachycardia, dysrhythmias, hypertension, Insomnia, Anorexia, lack of growth in children, weight loss, Euphoria – risk of abuse (CSS-II)

Amphetamines Dependence

Stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, weakness

Amphetamines Interactions

Caffeine and pseudoephedrine can increase stimulatory effects

Sedative-Hypnotics Uses

Hypnotics, Insomnia, OTC products contain diphenhydramine (Benadryl), Sedative-hypnotics, Insomnia, Anxiety, Seizures

Sedative-Hypnotics Adverse effects

Residual drowsiness (hangover), Vivid dreams, confusion, Hypotension, respiratory depression

Sedative-Hypnotics Adverse effects with long-term use

Dependence: withdrawal symptoms from abruptly stopping a drug, Tolerance: needing to increase the dosage over time to achieve the therapeutic effect

Benzodiazepines Use

Reduce anxiety, treat insomnia

Nonbenzodiazepines Zolpidem (Ambien) Use

hypnotic

General Anesthetics

Depresses the CNS, Alleviates pain, Causes a loss of consciousness

Local Anesthetics

Pain relief in limited area

Seizures Characteristics

Abnormal electric discharges from cerebral neurons, Loss of consciousness, Involuntary, uncontrolled movements

Tonic–clonic (grand mal) Seizure

Most common, Generalized alternating muscle spasms and jerkiness

Absence (petit mal) Seizure

Brief loss of consciousness (10 seconds or less), Usually occurs in children

Antiseizure Drugs Action

Stabilize nerve cell membranes, Suppress electric impulses in the brain

Common Antiseizure Drugs

Phenytoin, Valproic acid, Carbamazapine, Barbiturates, All are teratogenic (cause birth defects)

Phenytoin Adverse reactions

Drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, Gingival hyperplasia, Reduced blood cells, Urine discoloration (red), Abrupt discontinuation can cause rebound seizures, Requires drug monitoring

Valproate (Depakote) Adverse reactions

Dizziness, drowsiness, Hepatotoxicity

Status Epilepticus

Prolonged seizure Medical emergency

Status Epilepticus Treatment

Benzodiazepines IV Followed by phenytoin IV