1/4 Flashcards
What are the side effects of amiodarone?
hepatotoxicity, pulmonary fibrosis, thyroid abnormalities (hypo- or hyperthyroidism) and photodermatitis.
Always check liver, pulmonary and thyroid function tests before prescribing amiodarone!
What is the mechanism of action of prazosin? What is it indicated for? What are its side effects?
prazosin is an alpha1 antagonist that is used to treat hypertension and the symptoms benign prostatic hypertrophy (alpha1 antagonism relaxes the sphincter muscles, allowing for more flow).
Side effects are first dose orthostatic hypertension and headache
What antihypertensive medication has the side effects of hyperglycemia (in diabetic patients), hyperlipidemia, hyperuricemia and hypercalcemia?
thiazide diuretics
What antihypertensive medication can lead to peaked T waves and a prolonged PR interval on the ECG, plus muscle weakness and arrhythmias?
Spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride or any potassium sparing diuretic can lead to hyperkalemia (peaked T waves, wide QRS, muscle weakness and arrhythmias are all symptoms of hyperkalemia)
Torsades de Pointes is caused by a prolonged QT interval. What leads to a prolonged QT interval?
a congenital channelopathy or class IA anti arrhythmic drugs
What diuretic drug should you use if a patient has volume overload from CHF but is allergic to sulfa drugs?
ethacrynic acid is not a sulfa drug but has the same action as furosemide (a loop diuretic)
acetazolamide, hydrochlorothiazide and furosemide are all sulfa drugs