Pain Meds

Question 1

Explain prostaglandins and inflammatory process

Answer 1

• Prostaglandins play a key role in the inflammatory response
• Designed to protect the body from injury and pathogens
• Employs potent chemical mediators to produce the rxn that helps destroy pathogens
  and promote healing
• As body reacts to these chemicals, it produces S/S of disease: swelling, pain, fever,
  aches
• May become chronic condition and lead to body damage
  Prostaglandins also:
• 1. protect GI mucosa from gastric acid
• Decreased output of gastric acid
• Promote secretion of mucous & bicarb
• Support submucosal blood flow
• 2. stimulate platelet aggregation
• 3. renal vasodilation & increased renal blood flow

Question 2

COX 1 vs COX 2

Answer 2

Question 3

ASA

Answer 3

• Inhibits synthesis of prostaglandins
• At low levels, ASA inhibits synthesis of thromboxane A (a potent vasoconstrictor that
  increases platelet aggregation)

Question 4

ASA Uses

Answer 4

• Pain (mild to moderate)
• Fever
• Inflammation (greater anti-inflammatory activity than NSAIDs) (325-650 mg)
• Prevent MI, TIA, CVA
• irreversibly inhibits platelet aggregation for lifespan of platelet (7-10 days)
• Low doses (81 mg – 325 mg)

Question 5

What antidepressents used for pain?

Answer 5

• SNRIs (Serotonin & Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) and TCAs
  (Tricyclic Antidepressants) used for neuropathic pain
• Impact norepinephrine
• SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) NOT used for
  pain