Emergency Drugs Flashcards
What does epinephrine stimulate?
The sympathetic nervous system through vasoconstriction
How fast does epinephrine work? How often must it be given?
Works within seconds, must be given every 3-5 minutes
What kind of drug is vasopressin?
An antidiuretic hormone
What do you get out of using vasopressin?
Improved cerebral oxygen, resuscitation, and better neuro outcome and blood flow
When is vasopressin used?
Asystole, ventricular tachycardia, and PEA
What is the regular dose for vasopressin?
0..4-0.8units/kg IV or IT
What is the CRI dose for vasopressin?
0.01-0.04 units/kg/min
What kind of drug is dopamine?
Inotropic cardiac stimulant
Can you use dopamine when the heart is still beating?
Yes
How must dopamine be given?
Slow IV drip
What kind of drug is atropine?
Anticholinergic
What does atropine do?
Treats bradycardia
How fast does atropine work?
Within minutes
What is the alternative to atropine? Why?
Glycopyrrolate, less likely to cause tachycardia
What kind of drug is doxapram?
Analeptic drug
What does doxapram do to the body?
Respiratory stimulant and increases myocardial oxygen demand
How easy is it to get doxapram in Canada?
Very difficult
What corticosteroids are sometimes used during emergencies?
Prednisolone sodium succinate and dexamethasone
What can corticosteroids cause during emergencies?
Circulatory collapse if given without IV fluids
What kind of drug is lidocaine?
Antiarrhythmic
What is lidocaine good for?
Ventricular tachycardia and PCV’s
Which lidocaine do you use during emergencies?
Neat
What is sodium bicarbonate used to treat?
Acidosis and hyperkalemia
What does calcium gluconate treat?
Hypocalcemia, hyperkalemia, and calcium channel blocker overdoses
