Extra Flashcards
What is a potential risk associated with hydroxyzine?
A: Hydroxyzine is associated with a small risk of QT interval prolongation and Torsade de Pointes.
In which patients are QT prolongation and Torsade de Pointes most likely to occur with hydroxyzine?
A: Patients with risk factors for QT prolongation, such as those on drugs that prolong the QT interval, cardiovascular disease, a family history of sudden cardiac death, significant electrolyte imbalance, or significant bradycardia.
What are some specific risk factors for QT prolongation when taking hydroxyzine?
A: Risk factors include:
Use of drugs that prolong the QT interval,
Cardiovascular disease,
Family history of sudden cardiac death,
Electrolyte imbalance (low plasma potassium or magnesium),
Significant bradycardia.
What is the contra-indication for hydroxyzine related to the QT interval?
A: Hydroxyzine is contra-indicated in patients with a prolonged QT interval or those with risk factors for QT prolongation.
Q: Why should hydroxyzine use be avoided in the elderly?
A: The elderly have an increased susceptibility to the side effects of hydroxyzine e.g. qt
Q: What is the maximum daily dose of hydroxyzine for adults?
100mg
What is the maximum daily dose of hydroxyzine for the elderly?
A: For the elderly, the maximum daily dose is 50 mg, if use of hydroxyzine cannot be avoided.
Q: Which ingredients in OTC cough and cold medicines should not be given to children under 6 years?
A: Antihistamines, cough suppressants, expectorants, and decongestants.
Q: For children aged 6-12, how long should OTC cough and cold medicine treatment be restricted to?
A: Treatment should be restricted to 5 days or less.
Q: What are the restrictions on codeine use for cough and cold?
A: Codeine is contra-indicated in:
Children younger than 12 years,
Patients known to be CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizers (any age),
Breastfeeding mothers,
All children under 18 undergoing tonsil or adenoid surgery for sleep apnea,
All children under 18 with respiratory problems.
What can cause paradoxical bronchospasm
Paradoxical bronchospasm with ICS
Discontinue treatment and offer alternative therapy if
bronchospasm occurs; may be prevented by
inhalation of a short-acting beta2 agonist beforehand
(or by using dry powder inhalation instead of aerosol
inhalation)
Patient describes their inhaler as egg shaped. What is this?
A HandiHaler is a breath-activated, egg-shaped inhaler that delivers powdered medication to the lungs
E.g. Spiriva handihaler, primarily COPD (LAMA)
