Neuropathy & Miscellaneous

What anti-anginal drug is commonly used for chest pain?

Nitroglycerin (nitrate), sublingual

What is the primary use of nitroglycerin?

Relieves chest pain (angina)

What drug is used for intermittent claudication?

Pentoxifylline

What is the mechanism of action of pentoxifylline?

Improves blood flow through vessels and reduces leg pain from poor circulation

How should therapeutic effect of pentoxifylline be monitored?

Monitor pain level using a numeric pain scale

What does additive drug interaction mean?

Combined effect of two drugs equals the sum of each drug alone

What does synergistic drug interaction mean?

Two drugs produce an effect greater than the sum of their separate actions

What does antagonistic drug interaction mean?

Two drugs result in decreased drug effects

What type of analgesic is tramadol?

Centrally acting non-opioid analgesic

What is a major warning for tramadol use?

May cause seizures; do not use in patients with seizure history

What patient population requires caution with tramadol?

Patients with suicidal tendencies or addiction risk

Which drug interaction is important to avoid with tramadol?

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) — can increase risk of hypertensive crisis

What is the mechanism of action of gabapentin?

Inhibits neurons from firing

What substances should be avoided while taking gabapentin?

Alcohol and CNS depressants

What are common adverse effects of gabapentin?

Drowsiness, dizziness, mood changes

What should patients report while taking gabapentin?

Unexplained rapid weight gain

What are common adverse effects of pregabalin?

Dizziness, drowsiness, suicidal ideations

What should patients avoid while taking pregabalin?

Alcohol and CNS depressants

What should patients report while taking pregabalin?

Mood changes and suicidal ideations

What type of drug is amitriptyline?

Tricyclic antidepressant

What is the mechanism of action of amitriptyline?

Alters serotonin and norepinephrine activity at nerve synapses

What type of drug is lidocaine?

Local anesthetic

What is the mechanism of action of lidocaine?

Blocks conduction of pain impulses