Antibiotic / Antihistamine drugs

Question 1

Benzylpenicillin BPN

Answer 1

INDICATED: Suspected meningococcal disease in the presents of:

i) non blanching rash (petechial or purpuric)
ii) Sings / symptoms of meningococcal septicemia.

ACTION: Broad spectrum antibiotic

CONTRA: Known SEVERE allergy to penicillin (more than a simple rash)

AD INFO: Most common in children and young adults. May rapidly progress and fatal.

Question 2

Chlorphenamine CPH

Answer 2

INDICATED: Severe anaphylactic reactions. (when indicated, should follow with IM ADM)

ACTION: Blocks the effect of histamine released. Also has anticholinergic properties

CONTRA: Known hypersensitivity.
Children < 1yr.

SIDE EFFECTS: Sedation, dry mouth, headache, blurred vision, GI disturbance, psycho-motor impairment, transient hypotension, rare convolutions. the elderly are more prone to suffer these side effects. Warn against driving or other complex tasks.

CAUTIONS: Hypotension, EP, Glaucoma, Hepatic disease, Prostatic disease.