Emergency Pharmacology: Drug Indications and Contraindications

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering emergency medication indications, contraindications, and specific dosing details.

Adenosine

An antiarrhythmic indicated for SVT and WCT. Contraindicated in AFib and poison-induced tachycardia. Dosed as $6\,\text{mg}$ with a second dose of $12\,\text{mg}$ given via rapid push.

Amiodarone

An antiarrhythmic indicated for VF, pVT, WCT, AFib, and atrial flutter. Contraindicated in patients with second- or third-degree AV block (2/3 AVB). Noted dose is $150\,\text{mg}$.

Aspirin

An antiplatelet agent indicated for suspected ACS (SUS ACS). Contraindicated in active bleeding (gastro ulcers). Administered at $162\text{--}324\,\text{mg}$ PO chewable (not enteric-coated).

Atropine

An anticholinergic indicated for symptomatic bradycardia (Symptom Brady). Has no absolute contraindications (CI: None), but in second- and third-degree AV block (Mobitz II), pacing should be dialed instead of administering atropine.

Calcium Chloride

An electrolyte replacement indicated for the treatment of hyperkalemia. Contraindicated in hypercalcemia.

Dexamethasone

A corticosteroid indicated for conditions including sepsis. Contraindicated in systemic fungal infections.

Diltiazem

A calcium channel blocker indicated for rate control in AFib and SVT. Contraindicated when $\text{SBP} < 90$.

Dopamine

An inotropic/vasopressor agent indicated for non-hypovolemic shock and symptomatic bradycardia. Contraindicated when given prior to adequate fluid resuscitation.

Epinephrine

A sympathomimetic catecholamine indicated for cardiac arrest. Listed with no contraindications (CI: None) in the cardiac arrest setting.

Fentanyl

A synthetic opioid narcotic indicated for pain management and ACS at a dose of $1\,\text{mcg/kg}$. Contraindicated in patients taking MAOIs.