Exam 1 - Week 1 - Decongestants Flashcards
Route of decongestants?
Topical
Oral
What do decongestants do in simple terms?
Help patient breathe
Decongestant MOA
Sympathomimetic agents that stimulate alpha and beta adrenergic receptors, causing vasoconstriction in the respiratory tract mucosa, thus improving ventilation
How do topical decongestants work?
Slow ciliary motility and mucocillary clearance
How do oral decongestants work?
Help clear nasal mucus and obstruction and prevent rhinosinusitis and Eustachian tube blockage (similar to topical)
Name 2 topical (nose spray) decongestants.
- Oxymetazoline hydrochloride (Afrin)
2. Phenylephrine hydrochloride (Neo-synephrine, Little Remedies, Afrin Childrens)
Name 2 oral decongestants.
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
2. Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE [not recommended])
How do you obtain oral decongestants?
Controlled behind the pharmacy counter, no prescription necessary.
What age is safe for oxymetazoline hydrochloride (Afrin)?
> 6 years
What age is safe for pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)?
> 4 years
What are contraindications to decongestants?
Hypersensitivity Narrow angle glaucoma Severe uncontrolled HTN CAD MAOI within 14 days <4 years
Adverse reactions of decongestants?
Increased BP & hr, palpitations, HA, dizziness, GI, insomnia, tremor (2SN states decreased HR & BP)
Admin: Oxymetazoline hydrochloride
Should only be used 2-3 sprays in each nostril every 10-12 hours.
2 doses in a day.
Use ONLY FOR 3 Days
Admin: Phenylephrine hydrochloride
Can be used q 4hrs. but should only be used 2-3 times in a day
Admin: Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
Oral preparations at least 2hrs before bed.
