Pharmacology Flashcards
Examples of NSAIDs
Ibuprofen
diclofenac
Naproxen
Mode of action of NSAIDs
Selective or non-selective COX inhibitors
Adverse effects of NSAIDs
tarry black stools dyspepsia gastritis peptic ulcer renal impairment
Examples of DMARDs
Methotrexate
Sulphasalazine
Hydroxychloroquine
Leflunomide
adverse effects of Methotrexate
interstitial pneumonitis leucopenia thrombocytopenia heptatitis/cirrhosis rash/mouth ulcers teratogenic
adverse effects of Sulphasalazine
neutropenia orange body fluids rashes oligospermia heinz body anaemia
adverse effects of hydroxychloroquine
retinopathy
Examples of Biologics
Anti-TNF: infliximab, etanercept Rituximab Tocilizumab Abatacept Ustekinamab
adverse effects of biologics
Infection - especially TB
contraindications to biologics
pulmonary fibrosis
Heart failure
Examples of corticosteroids
prednisolone
hydrocortisone
methylprednisolone
dexamethasone
adverse effects of corticosteroids
weight gain muscle wasting osteoporosis cataracts glaucoma
Nephrotoxic rheumatoid drugs
Gold
penicillamine
is methotrexate safe in pregnancy
No - should be stopped at least 3 months before conception
DMARDs not safe in pregnancy
Methotrexate
Leflunomide
DMARDs safe in pregnancy
Hydroxychloroquine
Sulfasalazine
Are NSAIDs safe in pregnancy
Only until 32 weeks - then should stopped due to causing early closure of ductus arteriosus
How often is methotrexate taken by a patient
Weekly, not daily!
What blood tests need to be monitored when a patient is on Methotrexate, and how often should they be taken
FBC, U&Es, LFTs
take before starting Tx, and repeat weekly until levels stabilised.
2-3 weekly thereafter
What medication should be co-prescribed to a patient on Methotrexate and when should it be taken
Folic acid 5mg once weekly, 24h after methotrexate dose
What is the starting dose for Methotrexate
7.5mg weekly
What is the usual strength of one Methotrexate tablet
2.5mg
What medications should NOT be co-prescribed with Methotrexate, and why
Trimethoprim or Co-trimoxazole
- increased risk of marrow aplasia (both anti folate drugs)
rheumatoid drug causing blacky tarry stools
NSAID
rheumatoid drug that is
nephrotoxic + causes proteinuria
Gold
penicillamine
rheumatoid drug causing thrombocytopenia
gold