Neuro Drugs (CNS Stimulants)

Question 1

ADHD/ADD Stimulants - Ritalin, Adderall, Vyvanse, Focalin

Answer 1

Uses: tx ADD and ADHD. Adverse = HTN, tachycardia, HA, insomnia, dry mouth, decreased appetite, blurred vision and anxiety. Sudden death w/ children taking Adderall w/ structural cardiac abnormalities. High abuse potential due to stimulant and euphoric effects.

Question 2

Anorexiants - Ionamin

Answer 2

Uses: Appetite suppressant. Indicated for tx of obesity BMI > 30 and overweight BMI 27-30 who have comorbidities, (HTN, high cholesterol, DM). Adverse = anxiety, HTN, dizziness, insomnia, HA. High abuse potential.

Question 3

Non-Stimulant Anorexiants - Xenical = OTC strenght Alli

Answer 3

Uses: Inhibits gastric & pancreatic lipases reducing fat absorption by 30%. Adverse = oily spotting, increased flatulence & fecal incontinence. Adverse can be lessened by decreasing dietary fat intake. Contraindicated = cholestiasis, malabsorption syndromes

Question 4

SSRAs - Triptans - Imitrex, Axert

Answer 4

Uses: tx of migraine HA & cluster HA. Adverse = n/v, dizziness, hyper or HTN, cardiac arrhythmias, coronary artery vasospasms. Contraindicated = hx of CAD, uncontrolled HTN, cerebrovascular disease, or prior MI.

Question 5

Caffeine

Answer 5

Uses: Mild CNS stimulant found in many OTC and combo prescription drugs. Many foods and beverages. Adverse = nervousness, insomnia, irritability, flushing, palpitations, arrhythmias. Caution = pt who has hx of cardiac disease or peptic ulcer disease. Pronounced diuretic effect.