Adrenergic/Cholinergic Pharm

Question 1

mydriasis

Answer 1

dilation of pupils

Question 2

pheochromocytoma

Answer 2

tumor of the adrenal medulla, which can cause excessive secretion of catecholamines

• usually benign, 10% malignant
• produce, store, release E & NE
• cause unknown, some occur with inherited disorders

s/s: HYPERTENSION (hallmark!), severe HA, palpitations, profuse diaphoresis, flushing, apprehension, sense of impending doom; chest or abdomen pain with n/v

tx: surgery (main)

Question 3

catecholamine characteristics

Answer 3

• PO? nope
• duration of action: brief (quick in activation by MAO & COMT)
• CANNOT cross BBB into CNS

Question 4

non-catecholamine characteristics

Answer 4

• PO? yep
• duration of action: longer! (longer half-life)
• CAN cross BBB into CNS

Question 5

miosis

Answer 5

constriction of pupils

Question 6

malignant hyperthermia s/s

Answer 6

• excess excitation
• high fevers
• stiffness/inability to move

Question 7

anaphylactic shock

Answer 7

• most serious allergic response
• due to antibody-antigen reaction
• fatal of not promptly treated (EPINEPHRINE!)

s/s: severe bronchoconstriction and hypotension due to cardiovascular collapse