Anticonvulsant's Flashcards
Generic Name: pregablin
Trade Name: Lyrica
Classification: Anticonvulsant
Medication Purpose: Binds to high-voltage-gated calcium channels in CNS tissues. Outcome: decreased seizure activity, decreased neuropathic pain.
Route: PO
Serious Side Effects: thrombocytopenia, rhabdomyolysis, angioedema, suicidal ideation
Metabolism: Negligible
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to this product or gabapentin, abrupt discontinuation.
Nsg Considerations: Do not crush/chew caps (may be opened and dissolved in applesauce or juice), gradually withdraw after 7 days, provide assistance with ambulation during early part of treatment (dizziness occurs), provide increased fluids due to constipation. Assess for seizure, assess for pain, monitor renal function tests: urinalysis, BUN, urine creatinine q3mo, creatine kinase, assess mental status, monitor for blisters, hives, rash, dyspnea, wheezing, muscle pain/weakness, fever.
Health Teaching: Advise pt. to avoid driving, not to discontinue medication quickly after long-term use (taper over >1 wk), not to double dose (take if 2 hr or more before next dose), avoid breastfeeding, avoid alcohol & live virus vaccines.
