Anti-infective, Anti-viral, Anti-Parkinson's, and Neurological Drugs

Vocabulary practice cards covering anti-infectives, antivirals, Parkinson's medications, and treatments for Myasthenia Gravis and Alzheimer's disease.

Cephalexin

A 1st generation cephalosporin anti-infective that causes bactericidal action by binding to the bacterial cell wall membrane, leading to cell death.

Cephalexin Contraindication

Hypersensitivity to penicillins, renal impairment, and drug interactions with Probenecid, loop diuretics, and aminoglycosidis.

Amoxicillin

An aminopenicillin anti-infective with a broader spectrum than regular penicillins, which binds to the bacterial cell wall to cause cell death.

Amoxicillin Maximum Dosage

The daily oral dosage should not exceed $2-3\,g/day$, usually divided into $250-500\,mg$ every 8 hours or $500-875\,mg$ every 12 hours.

Acyclovir

An antiviral drug used for encephalitis that interferes with viral DNA synthesis and inhibits viral replication and shedding.

Acyclovir Nursing Implications

Monitor BUN, Serum creatinine, and CC before therapy as elevated BUN or decreased CC may indicate renal failure; also monitor neuro status.

Carbidopa / levodopa

An anti-Parkinson's dopamine agonist; Levodopa is converted to dopamine in the CNS, while Carbidopa (a decarboxylase inhibitor) prevents its peripheral destruction.

Carbidopa / levodopa Patient Teaching

Patients should change positions slowly to avoid orthostatic hypotension and may notice a darkening of saliva, sweat, or urine.

Benztropine Mesylate

An anticholinergic anti-Parkinson's agent that blocks cholinergic activity in the CNS to restore the natural balance of neurotransmitters.

Pyridostigmine Bromide

An acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (cholinergic agent) used to improve muscle contraction and strength in Myasthenia Gravis by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine.

Cholinergic Crisis vs. Myasthenic Crisis

A critical assessment for patients on Pyridostigmine Bromide, where Atropine should be kept available as an antidote for excessive cholinergic activity.

Protopam Chloride

A cholinesterase reactivator used as an antidote for poisoning; it removes organophosphates from acetylcholinesterase to restore normal nerve function.

Donepezil

A cholinergic anti-Alzheimer's agent that inhibits acetylcholinesterase to increase acetylcholine in the brain, enhancing cognition without curing the disease.

Prednisone / methylprednisoloe

Glucocorticoid corticosteroids used for Bell's palsy, MS, and spinal cord injuries to suppress the immune response and decrease inflammation and edema.

Corticosteroid Nursing Implications

Monitor Blood Glucose Levels (BGL) for hyperglycemia, check BP and weight for fluid retention, and always taper the drug gradually to avoid adrenal suppression.

SJS and CDAD

Serious potential side effects of Cephalexin and Amoxicillin, referring to Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Clostridioides Difficile-Associated Diarrhea.