Pharmacology - Contraceptives

Question 1

Contraceptive Drugs

Answer 1

Supplies a steady level of both estrogen and/or progestin

Question 2

What are the four actions of contraceptive drugs?

Answer 2

1) Prevents ovulation by inhibiting the release of gonadotropins
2) Pituitary gland isn’t triggered to release FSH & LH
3) Causes a decrease amount of mucus & higher viscosity(thicker)
4) Lining of uterus doesn’t thicken

Question 3

List up to 10 indications for contraceptive drugs

Answer 3

1) Dysmenorrhea
2) Dysfunctional uterine bleeding
3) Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
4) Endometriosis
5) Polycystic ovary syndrome
6) Benign Breasts & Ovarian cysts
7) Ovarian & Endometrial cancer
8) Hirsutism
9) Acne
10) Family Planning

Question 4

Oral Contraceptives

Answer 4

Mostly estrogen-progestin combos

Question 5

Injection Contraceptives

Answer 5

Depo-Provera shot; progestin only

Question 6

Vaginal Ring

Answer 6

NuvaRing

Question 7

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

Answer 7

Mirena; progestin

Question 8

Types of contraceptives

Answer 8

• Oral
• Injection
• Transdermal Patch
• Vaginal Ring
• Intrauterine Device (IUD)

Question 9

Side effects of contraceptives

Answer 9

• Nausea/vomiting
• Breast changes & tenderness
• Headache
• Weight gain
• Edema & bloating

Question 10

Adverse effects of contraceptives

Answer 10

• Hypertension in smokers
• Thromboembolism
• Alteration in lipid & carb metabolism
• Increases in serum hormone concentrations

Question 11

What does the acronym ACHES stand for when teaching about contraceptives?

Answer 11

A: Abdominal/stomach pain
C: Chest pain or shortness of breath
H: Headaches (severe)
E: Eye problems such as blurred vision or loss of vision
S: Swelling or aching in the legs and thighs (redness, swelling, or pain in the calf or thighs)