Pharmacology Terms

Question 1

Therapeutic Equivalence

Answer 1

• Contains the same chemical entity
• Contains the same quantity of active ingredients
• Is the same dosage form
• Has the same route of administration

Question 2

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE Inhibitors)

Answer 2

• Block ACE to stop angiotensin I from converting to angiotensin II
• Results in reduction in total peripheral resistance and improved elasticity of arteries

Adverse reactions: Cough, hypotension, dizziness, fatigue

Contraindictations/cautions: ACE inhibitor angioedema (history, hereditary or idiopathic), pregnancy

Special consideration: If patient is pregnant, medication must be discontinued immediately or fetal or nenonatal morbidity or mortality may occur

Question 3

Depression

Answer 3

Depression:

• May be caused by changes in neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine, or serotonin) in the brain
• Symptoms: loss of interest in normal activities, low self-esteem, pessimism, self-pity, weight loss or gain, insomnia, loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness, feelings of guilt, or recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Question 4

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Indications:

MOA:

Adverse reactions:

Contraindications/cautions:

Special considerations:

Answer 4

Indications:

• Major depression
• obsessive-compulsive behavior
• anxiety

MOA:

• Block the reuptake of serotonin

Adverse reactions:

• Nervousness
• insomnia
• nausea
• diarrhea
• loss of weight
• decreased libido
• ejaculatory disturbances

Contraindications/cautions:

• Pregnacy
• elderly
• patients
• hepatic impairment

Special Considerations:

• Delay of onset for SSRIs is 10 to 21 days
• Alchol should be avoided
• These drugs interact with phenytoin

Question 5

Leukotriene Inhibitors

Answer 5

Indications: Prophylaxis and long-term treatment of asthma

MOA: Block the effects of leukotrienes, results in blocking of tissue inflammatory responses such as edema

Adverse reactions: Headache, severe asthma

Contraindication/caution: Hepatic disease

Special consideration: Patients using Singulair must be older than 6 years of age

Question 6

Leukotriene Inhibitors:

Montelukast

Answer 6

Brand Name: Singulair

Dosage Form: Tablet

Dosage: 10 mg PO q PM

Question 7

Leukotrient Inhibitors:

Zafirlukast

Answer 7

Brand Name: Accolate

Dosage Form: Tablet

Dosage: 20 mg PO bid

Question 8

Leukotrin Inhibitor:

Zileuton

Answer 8

Brand Name: Zyflo CR

Dosage Form: Tablet

Dosage: 1200 mg PO bid