Antidysrhythmic

Question 1

classifications of antidysrhythmic meds

Answer 1

Class I Na channel blockers
Class II beta blockers
Class III K+ channel blockers
Class IV Ca2+ channel blockers

major side effect: dysrhythmias

Question 2

amiodarone

Answer 2

K+ blocker med for extreme cardiac dysrhythmias
pt must undergo baseline testing before beginning long-term therapy

may cause:
dysrhythmias, hepatotoxicity, pulmonary toxicity, thyroid disfunction, photosensitivity, visual disturbances

taken in conjunction w/other antidysrhythmics may lead to toxicity

Question 3

adenosine

Answer 3

IV push anti-dysrhythmic momentarily stops the heart
short half life
keep resuscitation equipment on hand
avoid: caffeine

Question 4

Na+ blockers for cardiac dysrhythmias

Answer 4

Phenytoin, lidocaine
slow cardiac conduction velocity

lidocaine side effects: (CNS) drowsiness, seizures, altered mental status, respiratory depression

taken in conjunction w/other antidysrhythmics may decrease metabolism and lead to toxicity

Question 5

Ca2+ blockers for cardiac dysrhythmias

Answer 5

verapamil, diltiazem
decrease contractile force, slow HR, slow rate of cardiac conduction

side effects: bradycardia, hypoTN, heart failure, constipation (verapamil), peripheral edema

taken in conjunction w/other antidysrhythmics may decrease metabolism and lead to toxicity

Question 6

digoxin for cardiac dysrhythmias

Answer 6

decreases cardiac conduction, increases contractile force

side effects: bradycardia, hypoTN, toxicity