Chapter 38 - Allergic Rhinitis And The Common Cold Med Cards

Question 1

Diphenhydramine - Antihistamine

Answer 1

Action - Works both centrally & peripherally to block the action of histamine

Use - treat minor symptoms of allergy and common cold such as sneezing, runny nose, lacrimation

Contraindications - Allergy to H2 receptor agonist, neonates

Adverse Effects - Drowsiness, Sedation (#1 side effect), dry mouth, tachycardia, hypotension, photosensitivity

Patient teaching - Safety, avoid sun, ETOH and other CNS depressants may cause paradoxical excitation (mostly in children and elderly). If given IV administer slowly to reduce chance of anaphylactic shock. IM injection may cause tissue irritation.

• • H1 receptor antagonist
• • acute symptoms
• • anticholenergic

Question 2

Fluticasone - Corticosteroid

Answer 2

Action - Decrease inflammation in nasal passage

Use - Reduce nasal congestion

Contraindications - Infection

Adverse Effects - Nasal irritation, nose bleeds. Systemic effects may be seen if in high doses and/or swallowing of drug

Patient teaching - use as directed
- do not eat licorice

• • 2 sprays, 2x a day then decrease to 1x a day
• • may cause dryness or burning

Question 3

Oxymetazoline - Decongestants

Answer 3

Action - Stimulate alpha-adrenergic receptors in the sympathetic nervous system. This causes arterioles in the nasal passage to constrict, thus drying the mucous membranes

Use - Treat nasal congestion

Contraindications - ???

Adverse Effects - Rebound congestion, which is common when oxymetazoline is used for longer than 3 to 5 days. Minor stinging and dryness in the nasal mucosa may be experienced.

Patient teaching - to use as prescribed to avoid rebound congestion
- Wash hands carefully after administration to prevent anisocoria (blurred vision and inequality of pupil size)

• • A1 agonist
• • Hypertension

Question 4

Dextromethorphan - Antitussives

Answer 4

Action - Acts in the medulla to inhibit the cough reflex

Use - A component in most OTC severe cold and flu preparations

Contraindications - ???

Adverse Effect - Dizziness, drowsiness, and GI upset. In abuse situations, it can cause CNS toxicity.

Patient teaching - Avoid pulmonary irritants, such as smoking or other fumes, because these agents may decrease drug effectiveness

• • smoking decrease effects
• • Don’t give to asthma patients
• • Want to stop dry cough not a productive cough