Complete Drug Study Guide

This set of flashcards covers vocabulary related to various drug classes including muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, diuretics, and cardiac medications.

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)

A muscle relaxant that depresses CNS activity to relax skeletal muscle.

Carisoprodol (Soma)

A muscle relaxant used for muscle spasms and musculoskeletal pain.

Corticosteroids

Drugs that suppress inflammation and immune response, used for conditions like asthma and allergies.

Leukotriene Inhibitor

Blocks leukotriene receptors to reduce inflammation and bronchoconstriction in asthma.

DMARDs

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune disorders.

Biologics (Adalimumab - Humira)

TNF-alpha inhibitors used to reduce inflammation in autoimmune diseases.

Immunosuppressants

Drugs that suppress immune response to prevent organ rejection.

Potassium-sparing diuretic

A type of diuretic like Spironolactone that prevents potassium loss.

Loop Diuretics

Diuretics that inhibit sodium and chloride reabsorption in the loop of Henle.

Thiazide Diuretic

A diuretic that inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal tubule.

Anticholinergic

A class of drugs like Oxybutynin that relaxes bladder muscle for overactive bladder treatment.

ACE Inhibitors

Drugs that block the conversion of angiotensin I to II, used for hypertension and heart failure.

Calcium Channel Blockers

Drugs that block calcium influx in cardiac and smooth muscle, causing vasodilation.

Beta Blockers

Medications that block beta receptors, reducing heart rate and blood pressure.

Clonidine

An alpha-2 agonist used for hypertension and ADHD.

Hydralazine

A direct vasodilator used for hypertension and heart failure.

Nitrates

Medications that vasodilate coronary arteries and veins, used for angina.

Digoxin (Lanoxin)

A heart medication that increases contractility and slows heart rate.

Dopamine

A drug used in shock that has effects depending on the dose administered.

Statins (e.g., Atorvastatin)

Drugs that inhibit HMG-CoA reductase to lower cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

Antidepressants that selectively block the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, increasing its availability.

Insulin

A hormone used to treat diabetes by helping the body's cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)

Drugs like Ibuprofen that reduce pain, inflammation, and fever by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.

Oral Hypoglycemics (e.g., Metformin)

Medications used to lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes by various mechanisms, such as reducing glucose production or increasing insulin sensitivity.

Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)

Drugs that prevent blood clot formation, used to treat or prevent thrombotic events.

Antibiotics (e.g., Amoxicillin)

Medications that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, treating bacterial infections.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., Omeprazole)

Drugs that reduce stomach acid production by inhibiting the H+/K+-ATPase proton pump in gastric parietal cells.

Opioid Analgesics (e.g., Morphine)

Medications that bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to relieve severe pain.

Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine)

Drugs that block histamine receptors, primarily used to relieve allergy symptoms and induce sedation.

Thyroid Hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)

Synthetic thyroid hormones used to treat hypothyroidism by replacing deficient endogenous hormones.

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) - Client Education & Side Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue.
-   **Client Education:** Avoid driving or operating machinery due to sedation. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants. Take as prescribed and do not stop abruptly.

Corticosteroids - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects (short-term):** Increased appetite, mood changes, insomnia, fluid retention, hyperglycemia.
-   **Adverse Effects (long-term):** Bone density loss, increased risk of infection, adrenal suppression, impaired wound healing.
-   **Client Education:** Do not stop abruptly (tapering required). Take with food to minimize GI upset. Report any signs of infection or unusual changes. Monitor blood glucose levels if diabetic.

ACE Inhibitors - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Dry, persistent cough, fatigue, dizziness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue), hyperkalemia, acute kidney injury.
-   **Client Education:** Report persistent cough or any swelling of the face/throat immediately. Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium. Monitor blood pressure regularly. Avoid in pregnancy.

Statins (e.g., Atorvastatin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Headache, GI upset, muscle pain (myalgia).
-   **Adverse Effects:** Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), liver damage.
-   **Client Education:** Report unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by fever or dark urine. Avoid grapefruit juice. Regular liver function tests are required. Take in the evening for some statins.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Nausea, insomnia or somnolence, sexual dysfunction, headache, nervousness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Serotonin syndrome (if combined with other serotonergic drugs), increased risk of suicidal thoughts in young adults.
-   **Client Education:** May take several weeks to feel full therapeutic effects. Do not stop abruptly (tapering is necessary). Report any worsening mood or suicidal ideation. Avoid alcohol.

Insulin - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Adverse Effects:** Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), lipodystrophy at injection sites, allergic reactions.
-   **Client Education:** Monitor blood glucose levels as directed. Recognize symptoms of hypoglycemia (shakiness, sweating, confusion, hunger) and carry a rapid-acting sugar source. Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy. Store properly (refrigerated, but room temp for opened vials for a month).

Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Adverse Effects:** Bleeding (hemorrhage) is the primary concern.
-   **Client Education:** Report any signs of bleeding (unusual bruising, blood in urine/stools, nosebleeds). Avoid aspirin or NSAIDs without consulting a doctor. Maintain a consistent intake of Vitamin K-rich foods. Regular INR monitoring is essential. Carry a medical alert card.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, heartburn), headache, dizziness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** GI bleeding/ulceration, renal impairment, increased risk of cardiovascular events.
-   **Client Education:** Take with food or milk to minimize GI irritation. Do not exceed recommended doses. Report black, tarry stools or severe stomach pain. Avoid if you have a history of ulcers or kidney problems without consulting a doctor.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., Omeprazole) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Headache, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain.
-   **Adverse Effects (long-term use):** Increased risk of C. difficile infection, bone fractures, vitamin B12 deficiency, hypomagnesemia.
-   **Client Education:** Take 30-60 minutes before the first meal of the day. Do not crush or chew capsules. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to avoid long-term risks.

Opioid Analgesics (e.g., Morphine) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Constipation, nausea, vomiting, sedation, dizziness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Respiratory depression, physical and psychological dependence, overdose.
-   **Client Education:** Take with food to reduce nausea. Increase fluid and fiber intake to prevent constipation, or use a prescribed laxative. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants. Do not crush

Antibiotics (e.g., Amoxicillin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), Clostridium difficile infection, superinfections (e.g., candidiasis).
-   **Client Education:** Complete the full course of medication even if feeling better. Take with food if GI upset occurs. Report any severe rash, difficulty breathing, or severe diarrhea. Do not share medication. Certain antibiotics may interact with oral contraceptives.

Beta Blockers - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Bradycardia, fatigue, dizziness, hypotension, insomnia.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Bronchospasm (especially in non-selective beta-blockers), worsened heart failure (initial), masking of hypoglycemia symptoms.
-   **Client Education:** Do not stop abruptly (can cause rebound hypertension or angina). Monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly. Report dizziness or excessive fatigue. Avoid in patients with asthma/COPD (non-selective). May mask signs of low blood sugar in diabetics.

Digoxin (Lanoxin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fatigue.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Digoxin toxicity (anorexia, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances like yellow-green halos, arrhythmias, bradycardia).
-   **Client Education:** Monitor apical pulse for a full minute before administering; hold if pulse is below 60 bpm (or as prescribed) and notify provider. Report signs of toxicity immediately. Maintain consistent potassium intake as low potassium can increase toxicity risk. Avoid antacids within 2 hours of dose.

Oral Hypoglycemics (e.g., Metformin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** GI upset (diarrhea, nausea, abdominal discomfort), metallic taste.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Lactic acidosis (rare but serious, especially in renal impairment), B12 deficiency. Hypoglycemia (less common with metformin alone).
-   **Client Education:** Take with food to minimize GI upset. Report unusual muscle pain, weakness, or difficulty breathing (signs of lactic acidosis). Regular B12 monitoring may be needed with long-term use. Avoid alcohol (increases risk of lactic acidosis). Hold Metformin before and after contrast dye procedures.

Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Side Effects:** Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, urinary retention (especially 1st generation).
-   **Adverse Effects:** Paradoxical excitation in children, severe sedation, anticholinergic effects.
-   **Client Education:** Avoid driving or operating machinery. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants. Take with food if GI upset occurs. Use caution in older adults due to increased risk of side effects.

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)

A muscle relaxant that depresses CNS activity to relax skeletal muscle.

Carisoprodol (Soma)

A muscle relaxant used for muscle spasms and musculoskeletal pain.

Corticosteroids

Drugs that suppress inflammation and immune response, used for conditions like asthma and allergies.

Leukotriene Inhibitor

Blocks leukotriene receptors to reduce inflammation and bronchoconstriction in asthma.

DMARDs

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune disorders.

Biologics (Adalimumab - Humira)

TNF-alpha inhibitors used to reduce inflammation in autoimmune diseases.

Immunosuppressants

Drugs that suppress immune response to prevent organ rejection.

Potassium-sparing diuretic

A type of diuretic like Spironolactone that prevents potassium loss.

Loop Diuretics

Diuretics that inhibit sodium and chloride reabsorption in the loop of Henle.

Thiazide Diuretic

A diuretic that inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal tubule.

Anticholinergic

A class of drugs like Oxybutynin that relaxes bladder muscle for overactive bladder treatment.

ACE Inhibitors

Drugs that block the conversion of angiotensin I to II, used for hypertension and heart failure.

Calcium Channel Blockers

Drugs that block calcium influx in cardiac and smooth muscle, causing vasodilation.

Beta Blockers

Medications that block beta receptors, reducing heart rate and blood pressure.

Clonidine

An alpha-2 agonist used for hypertension and ADHD.

Hydralazine

A direct vasodilator used for hypertension and heart failure.

Nitrates

Medications that vasodilate coronary arteries and veins, used for angina.

Digoxin (Lanoxin)

A heart medication that increases contractility and slows heart rate.

Dopamine

A drug used in shock that has effects depending on the dose administered.

Statins (e.g., Atorvastatin)

Drugs that inhibit HMG-CoA reductase to lower cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

Antidepressants that selectively block the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, increasing its availability.

Insulin

A hormone used to treat diabetes by helping the body's cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)

Drugs like Ibuprofen that reduce pain, inflammation, and fever by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.

Oral Hypoglycemics (e.g., Metformin)

Medications used to lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes by various mechanisms, such as reducing glucose production or increasing insulin sensitivity.

Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)

Drugs that prevent blood clot formation, used to treat or prevent thrombotic events.

Antibiotics (e.g., Amoxicillin)

Medications that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, treating bacterial infections.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., Omeprazole)

Drugs that reduce stomach acid production by inhibiting the H+/K+-ATPase proton pump in gastric parietal cells.

Opioid Analgesics (e.g., Morphine)

Medications that bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to relieve severe pain.

Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine)

Drugs that block histamine receptors, primarily used to relieve allergy symptoms and induce sedation.

Thyroid Hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)

Synthetic thyroid hormones used to treat hypothyroidism by replacing deficient endogenous hormones.

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) - Client Education & Side Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Muscle spasms, musculoskeletal pain.
-   **Side Effects:** Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue.
-   **Client Education:** Avoid driving or operating machinery due to sedation. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants. Take as prescribed and do not stop abruptly.

Corticosteroids - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Suppress inflammation and immune response (e.g., asthma, allergies, autoimmune disorders).
-   **Side Effects (short-term):** Increased appetite, mood changes, insomnia, fluid retention, hyperglycemia.
-   **Adverse Effects (long-term):** Bone density loss, increased risk of infection, adrenal suppression, impaired wound healing.
-   **Client Education:** Do not stop abruptly (tapering required). Take with food to minimize GI upset. Report any signs of infection or unusual changes. Monitor blood glucose levels if diabetic.

ACE Inhibitors - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Hypertension, heart failure, post-myocardial infarction, diabetic nephropathy.
-   **Side Effects:** Dry, persistent cough, fatigue, dizziness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue), hyperkalemia, acute kidney injury.
-   **Client Education:** Report persistent cough or any swelling of the face/throat immediately. Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium. Monitor blood pressure regularly. Avoid in pregnancy.

Statins (e.g., Atorvastatin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Lower cholesterol levels (LDL), reduce risk of cardiovascular disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, stroke, heart attack).
-   **Side Effects:** Headache, GI upset, muscle pain (myalgia).
-   **Adverse Effects:** Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), liver damage.
-   **Client Education:** Report unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by fever or dark urine. Avoid grapefruit juice. Regular liver function tests are required. Take in the evening for some statins.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
-   **Side Effects:** Nausea, insomnia or somnolence, sexual dysfunction, headache, nervousness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Serotonin syndrome (if combined with other serotonergic drugs), increased risk of suicidal thoughts in young adults.
-   **Client Education:** May take several weeks to feel full therapeutic effects. Do not stop abruptly (tapering is necessary). Report any worsening mood or suicidal ideation. Avoid alcohol.

Insulin - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes (when oral agents are insufficient or contraindicated), gestational diabetes.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), lipodystrophy at injection sites, allergic reactions.
-   **Client Education:** Monitor blood glucose levels as directed. Recognize symptoms of hypoglycemia (shakiness, sweating, confusion, hunger) and carry a rapid-acting sugar source. Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy. Store properly (refrigerated, but room temp for opened vials for a month).

Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism (DVT, PE), stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation, mechanical heart valves.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Bleeding (hemorrhage) is the primary concern.
-   **Client Education:** Report any signs of bleeding (unusual bruising, blood in urine/stools, nosebleeds). Avoid aspirin or NSAIDs without consulting a doctor. Maintain a consistent intake of Vitamin K-rich foods. Regular INR monitoring is essential. Carry a medical alert card.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Pain relief (analgesia), reduction of inflammation (anti-inflammatory), fever reduction (antipyretic), conditions like arthritis, menstrual pain, headaches.
-   **Side Effects:** Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, heartburn), headache, dizziness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** GI bleeding/ulceration, renal impairment, increased risk of cardiovascular events.
-   **Client Education:** Take with food or milk to minimize GI irritation. Do not exceed recommended doses. Report black, tarry stools or severe stomach pain. Avoid if you have a history of ulcers or kidney problems without consulting a doctor.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., Omeprazole) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease (PUD), Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, H. pylori eradication.
-   **Side Effects:** Headache, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain.
-   **Adverse Effects (long-term use):** Increased risk of C. difficile infection, bone fractures, vitamin B12 deficiency, hypomagnesemia.
-   **Client Education:** Take 30-60 minutes before the first meal of the day. Do not crush or chew capsules. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to avoid long-term risks.

Opioid Analgesics (e.g., Morphine) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Management of moderate to severe acute and chronic pain.
-   **Side Effects:** Constipation, nausea, vomiting, sedation, dizziness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Respiratory depression, physical and psychological dependence, overdose.
-   **Client Education:** Take with food to reduce nausea. Increase fluid and fiber intake to prevent constipation, or use a prescribed laxative. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants. Do not crush.

Antibiotics (e.g., Amoxicillin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Treatment of bacterial infections (e.g., respiratory tract infections, ear infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections).
-   **Side Effects:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), Clostridium difficile infection, superinfections (e.g., candidiasis).
-   **Client Education:** Complete the full course of medication even if feeling better. Take with food if GI upset occurs. Report any severe rash, difficulty breathing, or severe diarrhea. Do not share medication. Certain antibiotics may interact with oral contraceptives.

Beta Blockers - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Hypertension, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, heart failure, arrhythmias, migraine prophylaxis, essential tremor.
-   **Side Effects:** Bradycardia, fatigue, dizziness, hypotension, insomnia.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Bronchospasm (especially in non-selective beta-blockers), worsened heart failure (initial), masking of hypoglycemia symptoms.
-   **Client Education:** Do not stop abruptly (can cause rebound hypertension or angina). Monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly. Report dizziness or excessive fatigue. Avoid in patients with asthma/COPD (non-selective). May mask signs of low blood sugar in diabetics.

Digoxin (Lanoxin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Heart failure (to improve contractility), atrial fibrillation (to control ventricular rate).
-   **Side Effects:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fatigue.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Digoxin toxicity (anorexia, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances like yellow-green halos, arrhythmias, bradycardia).
-   **Client Education:** Monitor apical pulse for a full minute before administering; hold if pulse is below 60 bpm (or as prescribed) and notify provider. Report signs of toxicity immediately. Maintain consistent potassium intake as low potassium can increase toxicity risk. Avoid antacids within 2 hours of dose.

Oral Hypoglycemics (e.g., Metformin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
-   **Side Effects:** GI upset (diarrhea, nausea, abdominal discomfort), metallic taste.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Lactic acidosis (rare but serious, especially in renal impairment), B12 deficiency. Hypoglycemia (less common with metformin alone).
-   **Client Education:** Take with food to minimize GI upset. Report unusual muscle pain, weakness, or difficulty breathing (signs of lactic acidosis). Regular B12 monitoring may be needed with long-term use. Avoid alcohol (increases risk of lactic acidosis). Hold Metformin before and after contrast dye procedures.

Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Relief of allergy symptoms (e.g., rhinitis, urticaria), insomnia, motion sickness.
-   **Side Effects:** Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, urinary retention (especially 1st generation).
-   **Adverse Effects:** Paradoxical excitation in children, severe sedation, anticholinergic effects.
-   **Client Education:** Avoid driving or operating machinery. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants. Take with food if GI upset occurs. Use caution in older adults due to increased risk of side effects.

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) - Client Education & Side Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Muscle spasms, musculoskeletal pain.
-   **Side Effects:** Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Serotonin syndrome (rare, with concomitant serotonergic drugs), cardiac arrhythmias.
-   **Client Education:** Avoid driving or operating machinery due to sedation. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants. Take as prescribed and do not stop abruptly.
-   **Lifespan Considerations:** Use with caution in older adults due to increased risk of sedation and anticholinergic effects. Not recommended for children under 15 years old.

Corticosteroids - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Suppress inflammation and immune response (e.g., asthma, allergies, autoimmune disorders).
-   **Side Effects (short-term):** Increased appetite, mood changes, insomnia, fluid retention, hyperglycemia.
-   **Adverse Effects (long-term):** Bone density loss, increased risk of infection, adrenal suppression, impaired wound healing.
-   **Client Education:** Do not stop abruptly (tapering required). Take with food to minimize GI upset. Report any signs of infection or unusual changes. Monitor blood glucose levels if diabetic.
-   **Lifespan Considerations:** In children and adolescents, long-term systemic use can stunt growth. Older adults have an increased risk of bone density loss, cataracts, and diabetes. Use with caution in pregnancy, discussing risks/benefits.

ACE Inhibitors - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Hypertension, heart failure, post-myocardial infarction, diabetic nephropathy.
-   **Side Effects:** Dry, persistent cough, fatigue, dizziness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue), hyperkalemia, acute kidney injury.
-   **Client Education:** Report persistent cough or any swelling of the face/throat immediately. Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium. Monitor blood pressure regularly. Avoid in pregnancy.
-   **Lifespan Considerations:** **ABSOLUTELY CONTRAINDICATED in pregnancy** due to fetal toxicity. Older adults may have an increased risk of hypotension and hyperkalemia. Use with caution in children, requiring dose adjustment.

Statins (e.g., Atorvastatin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Lower cholesterol levels (LDL), reduce risk of cardiovascular disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, stroke, heart attack).
-   **Side Effects:** Headache, GI upset, muscle pain (myalgia).
-   **Adverse Effects:** Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), liver damage.
-   **Client Education:** Report unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by fever or dark urine. Avoid grapefruit juice. Regular liver function tests are required. Take in the evening for some statins.
-   **Lifespan Considerations:** Contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Some statins are approved for specific pediatric lipid disorders. Older adults generally tolerate statins well, but vigilance for muscle pain is important.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
-   **Side Effects:** Nausea, insomnia or somnolence, sexual dysfunction, headache, nervousness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Serotonin syndrome (if combined with other serotonergic drugs), increased risk of suicidal thoughts in young adults.
-   **Client Education:** May take several weeks to feel full therapeutic effects. Do not stop abruptly (tapering is necessary). Report any worsening mood or suicidal ideation. Avoid alcohol.
-   **Lifespan Considerations:** In children and adolescents, there is an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (Black Box Warning). Start with lower doses in older adults and monitor for hyponatremia. In pregnancy, certain SSRIs (e.g., citalopram, sertraline) are often used, but there's a potential risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN).

Insulin - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes (when oral agents are insufficient or contraindicated), gestational diabetes.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), lipodystrophy at injection sites, allergic reactions.
-   **Client Education:** Monitor blood glucose levels as directed. Recognize symptoms of hypoglycemia (shakiness, sweating, confusion, hunger) and carry a rapid-acting sugar source. Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy. Store properly (refrigerated, but room temp for opened vials for a month).
-   **Lifespan Considerations:** Requires careful dosing and monitoring in children due to growth and varying activity levels. Older adults have an increased risk of hypoglycemia due to renal impairment and decreased counter-regulatory responses. Insulin is often required during pregnancy for gestational diabetes or pre-existing diabetes.

Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism (DVT, PE), stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation, mechanical heart valves.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Bleeding (hemorrhage) is the primary concern.
-   **Client Education:** Report any signs of bleeding (unusual bruising, blood in urine/stools, nosebleeds). Avoid aspirin or NSAIDs without consulting a doctor. Maintain a consistent intake of Vitamin K-rich foods. Regular INR monitoring is essential. Carry a medical alert card.
-   **Lifespan Considerations:** **Warfarin is CONTRAINDICATED in pregnancy** due to its teratogenic effects; heparin or low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) are preferred. Older adults have an increased risk of bleeding due to physiological changes and polypharmacy. Dosing is highly variable in children, requiring careful monitoring.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Pain relief (analgesia), reduction of inflammation (anti-inflammatory), fever reduction (antipyretic), conditions like arthritis, menstrual pain, headaches.
-   **Side Effects:** Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, heartburn), headache, dizziness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** GI bleeding/ulceration, renal impairment, increased risk of cardiovascular events.
-   **Client Education:** Take with food or milk to minimize GI irritation. Do not exceed recommended doses. Report black, tarry stools or severe stomach pain. Avoid if you have a history of ulcers or kidney problems without consulting a doctor.
-   **Lifespan Considerations:** Avoid in the 3^{rd} trimester of pregnancy due to the risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus. Older adults have an increased risk of GI bleeding, renal impairment, and cardiovascular events. In children, dosing is by weight, and aspirin should be avoided for fever/viral illness (due to the risk of Reye's syndrome).

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., Omeprazole) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease (PUD), Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, H. pylori eradication.
-   **Side Effects:** Headache, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain.
-   **Adverse Effects (long-term use):** Increased risk of C. difficile infection, bone fractures, vitamin B12 deficiency, hypomagnesemia.
-   **Client Education:** Take 30-60 minutes before the first meal of the day. Do not crush or chew capsules. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to avoid long-term risks.
-   **Lifespan Considerations:** Used for GERD in children, but long-term use concerns exist (bone fractures, infections). Older adults have an increased risk of C. difficile infection, bone fractures, and B12 deficiency. Generally considered safe in pregnancy, but consult with a healthcare provider.

Opioid Analgesics (e.g., Morphine) - Client Education & Adverse Effects:

-   **Therapeutic Uses:** Management of moderate to severe acute and chronic pain.
-   **Side Effects:** Constipation, nausea, vomiting, sedation, dizziness.
-   **Adverse Effects:** Respiratory depression, physical and psychological dependence, overdose.
-   **Client Education:** Take with food to reduce nausea. Increase fluid and fiber intake to prevent constipation, or use a prescribed laxative. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants. Do not crush.
-   **Lifespan Considerations:** In children, careful dose calculation by weight is crucial due to increased sensitivity to respiratory depression. Older adults have increased sensitivity, enhancing the risk of sedation, constipation, and respiratory depression; start with lower doses. Use with extreme caution in pregnancy/lactation due to the risk of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS).