Pharmacology Flashcards
What is the pathophysiology behind heparin induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)?
Immune-mediated reaction after exposure to heparin.
It leads to the formation of antibodies that bind to platelet-heparin complexes, resulting in platelet activation, aggregation and destruction.
What should you switch amlodipine to if ankle swelling is problematic?
Indapamide
When is IV magnesium given in hypomagnesaemia?
1) Mg <0.4 mmol/L
2) Tetany
3) Arrhythmias
4) Seizures
What should patients with MI 2ary to cocaine use be given as part of acute (ACS) treatment?
IV benzos
Why –> To reduce CNS stimulation and decreases sympathetic out-flow due to cocaine toxicity. Reduction in hypertension and tachycardia will decrease myocardial oxygen demand.
What 2 medications is PDE 5 inhibitors used (e.g. sildenafil) contraindicated by?
1) nitrates
2) nicorandil
Mechanism of aspirin?
Inhibits production of thromboxane A2
What is the key investigation in patients with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning?
ABG –> carboxyhaemoglobin levels
How can amiodarone therapy affect the eyes?
- corneal opacities
- optic neuritis
Mx of amiodarone induced hypothyroidism?
Continue amiodarone and add levothyroxine
Mx of organophosphate poisoning?
Atropine
Mechanism of finasteride?
5 alpha reductase inhibitor which converts testosterone into DHT
What is the major dose-limiting side effect of magnesium salts?
Diarrhoea