CHAPTER 12 – OVERVIEW OF THE SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM AND DRUGS AFFECTING NORADRENERGIC TRANSMISSION Flashcards
Devlan, a 25 year-old-male, is a concert pianist who is due to play overseas in an international competition. He has had long history of asthma but it is well controlled with regular use of salbutamol and inhaled steroid. As the competition approaches he develops severe anxiety, which impacts on his ability to practise because of the tremor in his hands. He is aware that another member of the orchestra also suffers pre-competition anxiety and that she has tablets that help slow her heart rate and stop her tremor. Devlan obtains 5 tablets from her and initially he takes 2 tablets and 4 hours later, as he feels calmer, he takes another 2 tablets. A short time later while practising he developes chest tightness that requires use of his salbutamol inhaler.
Devlan, a 25 year-old-male, is a concert pianist who is due to play overseas in an international competition. He has had long history of asthma but it is well controlled with regular use of salbutamol and inhaled steroid. As the competition approaches he develops severe anxiety, which impacts on his ability to practise because of the tremor in his hands. He is aware that another member of the orchestra also suffers pre-competition anxiety and that she has tablets that help slow her heart rate and stop her tremor. Devlan obtains 5 tablets from her and initially he takes 2 tablets and 4 hours later, as he feels calmer, he takes another 2 tablets. A short time later while practising he developes chest tightness that requires use of his salbutamol inhaler.
What class of drug is Devlan most likely to have taken?
Devlan has most likely taken a B-adrenoceptor antagonist
Explain the mechanistic relationship between the drug he has taken for his anxiety and exacerbation of his asthma.
Non-selective B-adrenoceptor agonists is contraindicated in people with asthma because of inhibition of bronchodilation mediated by B2-adrenoceptors
What advice should be given to Devlan regarding the use of non-prescribed drugs?
Devlan should seek medical advice from a professional as using other people’s medication can have an adverse effect to his health which could result in dire consequences
