Drug cards

Question 1

Aspirin (ASA) Class

Answer 1

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), Antipyretic, Platelet inhibitor, Nonnarcotic analgesic

Question 2

Aspirin Mechanism of action

Answer 2

1. Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis and release (decreases pain and fever produced)
2. Antipyretic agent by inhibition of prostaglandin action (causing vasodilation and sweating)
3. Analgesic agent (acts on peripheral nervous system)
4. Platelet inhibitor (prevents formation of thromboxane A2 (clotting))

Question 3

Aspirin leads to: (5)

Answer 3

-Vasodilation
- Decreased clot formation
- Reduces inflammation
- Reduces fever
- Pain reduction

Question 4

Aspirin Indication (4)

Answer 4

1. Mild to moderate pain and fever
2. Prevention of platelet aggregation in ischemia and thromboembolism
3. Chest pain or other signs/symptoms of acute MI
4. Reduce inflammation

Question 5

Aspirin Contraindications (5)

Answer 5

1. Active ulcer disease (not given PO)
2. Bleeding disorders
3. Hemorrhagic states
4. Known hypersensitivity to NSAIDs
5. Children or adolescents with flu-like symptoms / chickenpox

Question 6

Aspirin Precautions (4)

Answer 6

1. Chronic use may lead to GI ulcerations, bleeding, or perforation
2. Alcohol may increase the risk of GI bleeding
3. Allergic reactions are more likely if the patient has a history of asthma (hypersensitivity)
4. Use cautiously with:
   - GI disorders
   - Asthma
   - Impaired renal / liver function
   - Dehydrated children
   - Histories of coagulation defects - Bleeding disorders
   - During pregnancy

Question 7

Aspirin Administration (Mild pain and fever)

Answer 7

325mg- 650mg -PO
4-8 tablets

Question 8

Aspirin Administration (Myocardial Infarction MI)

Answer 8

160mg-325mg/day PO
2-4 tablets
Chewing is preferred

Question 9

Nitroglycerin Class (3)

Answer 9

Antianginal, Vasodilator, and Nitrate

Question 10

Nitroglycerin Mechanism of action (6)

Answer 10

1. Relaxation of vascular smooth muscle - promoting vasodilation
2. Decreases preload
   - Venous dilation = drop preload = drops heart size
   - Drop in Heart size = Rise in blood flow to coronary and collateral vessels = myocardial perfusion is improved
3. Decreases afterload
   - Drop in Arteriole pressure = Drop in aortic pressure = left ventricle works better
4. Decreases myocardial O2 consumption / workload
5. Improves collateral flow to ischemic regions
6. Dilatation of pulmonary capillary beds
   - Fluid in alveoli and interstitial space are pulled back into the vessels