Pharmacology

CEPHALOSPORINS

Class: Beta-lactam antibiotics
Used for: Treatment of respiratory infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and skin infections.
Avoid: In patients with a severe penicillin allergy.
Caution: Use with caution in individuals with renal impairment.
Adverse effects: Gastrointestinal upset and rash are possible.
Monitor: Kidney function to ensure there are no adverse effects.
Pregnancy: Generally considered safe during pregnancy.
Children: Safe to use in pediatric patients.

MACROLIDES

Example: Azithromycin
Used for: Primarily indicated for the treatment of respiratory infections.
Avoid: Patients with a history of QT prolongation should not use this medication.
Adverse effects: Potential for QT prolongation and gastrointestinal upset.
Monitor: Electrocardiogram (ECG) is necessary if the patient is at high risk for heart rhythm abnormalities.
Pregnancy: Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy.
Children: Safe to use in children.

AMINOGLYCOSIDES

Example: Gentamicin
Used for: Treatment of severe infections.
Avoid: Not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the risk of ototoxicity.
Caution: Patients with kidney disease should use this medication with caution.
Adverse effects: Ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity are potential side effects.
Monitor: Regular monitoring of drug levels and kidney function is required to prevent complications.
Children: Use caution when administering to pediatric patients.

FLUOROQUINOLONES

Example: Ciprofloxacin
Used for: Treatment of UTIs and pneumonia.
Avoid: Not recommended for use during pregnancy and in children.
Adverse effects: Risk of tendon rupture, particularly in older patients.
Monitor: Pay attention to any pain in tendons and discontinue use if symptoms occur.

TETRACYCLINES

Example: Doxycycline
Used for: Indicated for the treatment of acne and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Avoid: Should not be used during pregnancy or in children due to risks of dental health.
Adverse effects: Notable risk of tooth discoloration in developing teeth.

RESPIRATORY MEDICATIONS

Beta agonists: Function to open airways, facilitating better airflow.
Monitor: Heart rate and tremors as they may indicate overmedication or side effects.
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS): Function to reduce inflammation in the airways.
Monitor: Risk of oral thrush, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
Avoid: Caution recommended for immunocompromised patients using these medications.

DIABETES MEDICATIONS

Insulin: Major role in lowering blood glucose levels.
Monitor: Blood sugar levels and potassium levels, as insulin can affect potassium homeostasis.
Sulfonylureas: Act to increase insulin release from the pancreas.
Adverse effects: Risk of hypoglycemia, especially if meals are missed.
GLP-1 receptor agonists: Assist in weight loss and slow gastric emptying.
Avoid: Patients with a history of pancreatitis should avoid using GLP-1 medications.
Metformin: Generally considered first-line treatment for managing type 2 diabetes.
Hold before contrast: Metformin should be temporarily withheld before any contrast imaging due to the risk of lactic acidosis.
Adverse effects: Risk of lactic acidosis, especially in patients with renal impairment.

THYROID MEDICATIONS

Levothyroxine: Used to treat hypothyroidism.
Monitor: Regular thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels to ensure adequate dosage.
Hyperthyroid medications: Includes propylthiouracil (PTU) and Methimazole.
Avoid: Methimazole should be avoided during early pregnancy due to potential fetal risks.
Adverse effects: Risk of agranulocytosis, which decreases white blood cells and can lead to severe infection risk.

DIURETICS

Loop diuretics: Function to promote the excretion of potassium (K+).
Monitor: Regular potassium levels to prevent hypokalemia.
Thiazide diuretics: Have a tendency to retain calcium.
Avoid: Risk of dehydration; caution is advised in patients prone to electrolyte imbalances.
Adverse effects: Potential electrolyte imbalances may occur with improper use.
Pregnancy: Use caution with diuretics during pregnancy due to the effects on fluid balance.