UNIT 5 Pharmacology II Flashcards

1
Q

Describe the components of the neuron & their functions.

A

dendrite: receives & processes signal
soma: integrates signal, cellular machinery

axon hillock

axon: sends signal
- contains myelin & nodes of Ranvier

presynaptic terminal: releases neurotransmitters

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2
Q

What is conduction velocity, and how is it affected my myelination & axon diameter?

A

conduction velocity is a measure of how fast an axon transmits the action potential

CV is increased by:

  • myelination: the AP skips along the nodes of Ranvier (saltatory conduction)
  • large fiber diameter
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3
Q

List the 3 different fiber types. Compare & contrast them in terms of myelination, function, diameter, conduction velocity, & block onset.

A

A-alpha

  • heavy myelination
  • skeletal muscle (motor) & proprioception
  • 12-20mcm
  • fastest velocity
  • 4th in block onset

A- beta

  • heavy myelination
  • touch & pressure
  • 5-12mcm
  • second fastest velocity
  • 4th in block onset

A-gamma

  • medium myelination
  • skeletal muscle (tone)
  • 3-6mcm
  • middle velocity (3rd)
  • 3rd in block onset

A-delta

  • medium myelination
  • fast pain, temp, touch
  • 2-5mcm
  • middle velocity (3rd)
  • 3rd in block onset

B

  • light myelination
  • preganglionic ANS
  • 3mcm
  • 2nd slowest velocity
  • 1st in block onset

C-SNS

  • no myelination
  • postganglionic ANS
  • 0.3-1.3mcm
  • slowest velocity
  • 2nd in block onset

C-dorsal root

  • no myelination
  • slow pain, temp, touch
  • 0.4-1.2mcm
  • slowest velocity
  • 2nd in block onset.
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4
Q

Discuss differential blockade using epidural bupivacaine as an example.

A

differential blockade is the idea that some fiber types are blocked sooner (easier) than others.

Epidural bupi is a good example:

  • at lower concentrations, it provides analgesia while sparing motor function
  • as concentration increases, it anesthetizes more resistant nerve types, such as those that control motor function & proprioception
  • this is the basis for a “walking” epidural w/ a low bupi concentration
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5
Q

What concept is analogous to ED50 for LA?

A

mimimum effective concentration (Cm) is the concentration of LA that is required to block conduction. It is analagous to ED50 or MAC

fibers that are more easily blocked have a lower Cm

fibers that are more resistant to blockade have a higher Cm

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6
Q

Rank the nerve fiber types according to their sensitivity to LA in vivo (most to least sensitive)

A

B
C
A-gamma & A-delta
A-alpha & A-beta

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7
Q

What are the 3 possible configurations of the voltage gated Na+ channel?

A

resting: channel is closed & able to be opened if the neuron depolarizes
active: channel is open & Na+ is moving along it’s concentration gradient into the neuron
inactive: the channel is closed & unable to be opened (refractory)

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8
Q

How and when do LA bind to the voltage gated Na+ channel?

A

guarded receptor hypothesis states that LA can only bind to Na+ channels in their active (open) & inactive (closed refractory) states. LA do not bind Na+ channels in their resting states.

LA are more likely to bind axons that are conducting AP and less likely to bind those that are not. This is called a use-dependent or phasic blockade.

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9
Q

What is an AP & how does it depolarize a nerve?

A

an AP is a temporary change in the transmembrane potential follwed by a return to transmembrane potential

in order for a neuron to depolarize, Na+ must enter the cell (makes the inside more positive)

  • once threshold is reached, the cell depolarizes & propogates an AP
  • depolarization is an all or none phenomenon; the cell either does or doesn’t
  • the AP only travels in one direction. This is because the Na+ channels in upstream portion of the neuron are in the closed/inactive state.
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10
Q

What happens when a nerve repolarizes?

A

If depolarization is the accumulation of positive charges (Na+) inside the neuron, then repolarization is the removal of positive charges from inside the cell. This is accomplished by removing K+

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11
Q

How do LA affect neuronal depolarization?

A

bind to alpha-subunit on the inside of the Na+ channl when it’s in either the active or inactive state.

when a critical # of Na+ channels are blocked, there aren’t enough open channels for Na+ to enter the cell in sufficient quantity; threshold isn’t reached.

LA DO NOT affect resting membrane potential or threshold potential

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12
Q

Discuss the role of ionization w/ respect to LA

A

Since LA are weak bases w/ pKa values >7.4, we can predict that >50% of the LA will exist as ionized, conjugate acid after injection

The non-ionized fraction diffused into the nerve. Once inside the neuron, the law of mass action promotes re-equilibration of charged & uncharged species. The charged species binds to the alpha subunit on the interior of the voltage gated Na+ channel.

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13
Q

What are the 3 building blocks of the LA molecule? How does each one affect the PK/PD profile of the molecule?

A
  1. benzene ring
    - lipophilic
    - permits diffusion through lipid bilayers
  2. intermediate chain
    - class: ester or amide
    - metabolism
    - allergic potential
  3. tertiary amine
    - hydrophilic
    - accepts proton
    - makes molecule a weak base.
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14
Q

How can you use the drug name to determine if it’s an ester or an amide. List examples from each class.

A

ester: no “i” before suffix -caine
- benzocaine
- cocaine
- chloroprocaine
- procaine
- tetracaine

amide: has “i” before suffix - caine
- bupivicaine
- dibucaine
- etidocaine
- lidocaine
- mepivacaine
- ropivacaine

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15
Q

contrast the metabolism of ester & amide LA. Which LA participates in both metabolic pathways?

A

ester: pseudocholinesterase
amide: hepatic carboxylesterase/P450

cocaine is an exception: it is an ester, but is metabolized by pseudocholinesterase & in the liver.

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16
Q

Discuss LA allergy & cross sensitivity.

A

more common w/ the esters since they are derivatives of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). PABA is an immunogenic molecule capable of causing an allergic reaction (cross sensitivty w/in the class)

incidence of allergy to amides is very rare. Some multi-dose vials contain methylparaben as a preservative (similar to PABA and can precipitate an allergic reaction.

if allergy to an ester, avoid all esters, but amides should be ok, and vice versa.

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17
Q

What determines LA onset of action? Which drug disobeys this rule and why?

A

pKa determines onset

  • if pKa is closer to pH, onset is faster
  • if pKa is further from pH, onset is slower.

Chloroprocaine disobeys this rule:

  • it has a high pKa, which suggests a slow onset
  • however, it’s not very potent, so we have to give a higher concentration (usually 3% solution)
  • giving more molecules –> mass effect that explains it’s rapid onset.
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18
Q

What determines LA potency?

A

lipid solubility

  • the more lipid soluble a LA, the easier it is for the molecule to traverse the neuronal membrane
  • b/c more drug enters the neuron, there will be more of it available to bind the alpha-subunit

An intrinsic vasodilating effect is a secondary determinant of potency:
- vasodilation increases uptake into the systemic circulation & this reduces the amount of LA available to anesthetize the nerve.

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19
Q

What factors determine the LA DOA?

A

protein binding
- after injection, some of the molecules penetrate the epineurium, some diffuse away into the systemic circulation, and some bind to tissue proteins. The molecules that bind the proteins serve as a reservoir that extends the DOA

lipid solubility & intrinsic vasodilating activity are secondary determinants of DOA

  • higher degree of lipid solubility –> longer DOA
  • drug w/ instrinsic vasodilatory activity –> increase rate of vascular uptake –> decreased DOA
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20
Q

Discuss the intrinsic vasodilating effects of LA. Which LA has the opposite effect?

A

most LA cause some degree of vasodilation in clinically used doses. Those w/ greater vasodilation (lidocaine) = faster rate of vascular uptake, decreased DOA. The addition of a vasoconstrictor can prolong the DOA.

Cocaine is unique. It always causes vasoconstriction because it inhibits NE reuptake in sympathetic nerve endings in vascular smooth m.

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21
Q

Rank the amide LA according to pKa

A
bupivicaine 8.1
levo-bupivicaine 8.1
ropivicaine 8.1
lidocaine 7.9
prilocaine 7.9
mepivicaine 7.6
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22
Q

Rank the ester LA according to pKa

A

procaine 8.9
chloroprocaine 8.7
tetracaine 8.5

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23
Q

list 5 factors that govern the uptake & plasma concentrations of LA

A
  • site of injection
  • tissue blood flow
  • physiochemical properties of LA
  • metabolism
  • addition of a vasoconstrictor
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24
Q

rank injection sites to the corresponding plasma concentrations of LA.

A
interpleural
intercostal
caudal
epidural
brachial plexus
femoral
sciatic
subcutaneous
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25
Q

What is the maximum dose for each amide LA (weight based & max total dose)?

A
levobupivicaine 2mg/kg (150mg)
bupivicaine 2.5mg/kg (175mg)
bupivicaine w/ epi 3mg/kg (200mg)
lidocaine 4.5mg/kg (300mg)
ropivicaine 3mg/kg (200mg)
mepivacaine 7mg/kg (400mg)
lido w/ epi 7mg/kg (500mg)
prilocaine 8mg/kg (500-600mg, if > or <70kg)
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26
Q

What is the maximum dose for each ester LA (weight based & max total dose)?

A

procaine 7mg/kg (350-600mg)
chloroprocaine 11mg/kg (800mg)
chloroprocaine w/ epi 14mg/kg (1000mg)

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27
Q

What is the most common sign of LA systemic toxicity?

A

seizure

except in bupivicaine (cardiac arrest can occur before seizure)

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28
Q

List effects of lidocaine toxicity according to plasma concentration.

A
1-5: analgesia
5-10: tinnitus, circumoral numbness, skeletal m twitching, restlessness, vertigo, blurred vision, hypotension, myocardial depression
10-15: seizures, loss of consciousness
15-25: coma, respiratory distress
>25: CV collapse
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29
Q

What conditions increase the risk of CNS toxicity from LAST

A
  1. hypercarbia (increases CBF & increases drug delivery to the brain. Also decreases PB –> increased free fraction)
  2. hyperkalemia (raises resting membrane potential)
  3. metabolic acidosis (decreases the convulsion threshold & favors ion trapping inside of the brain).
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30
Q

Why is the risk of cardiac morbidity higher with bupivicaine than w/ lidocaine?

A

two features determine the extent of CV toxicity of any LA.

  1. affinity for the v-gated Na+ channel in the active & inactive state
  2. rate of dissociation from the receptor during diastole.

When c/w lido, bupi is greater in both of these features.
This also explains why resuscitation is so difficult.

Difficulty of CV resuscitation:
bupi > levobupi > ropi > lido

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31
Q

Discuss the modifications to the ACLS treatment protocol when applied to LAST.

A

epi can hinder resus from LAST & also reduces the effectiveness of lipid emulsion therapy. If used, give in doses < 1mcg/kg

amio is the agent of choice for ventricular arrythmias

avoid vasopressin, lidocaine, & procainamide.

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32
Q

Discuss the lipid emulsion for the treatment of LAST.

A

acts as a lipid sink: an IV reservoir that sequesters LA & reduces plasma concentration.

Treatment for LAST:

  • bolus 20% 1.5mL/kg (LBW) over 1min
  • infusion 0.25mL/kg/min
  • if symptoms are slow to resolve, repeat bolus up to 2 more times & increase infusion to 0.5mL/kg/min
  • continue gtt for 10min after achieving hemodynamic stability
  • max recommended dose is 10mL/kg for first 30mins
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33
Q

You are providing anesthesia for a 90kg pt undergoing liposuction. The plastic surgeon wants to use tumescent lidocaine 0.1% & asks you to calculate the max dose. How much tumescent lidocaine can this patient receive (in mL)?

A

max dose of lidocaine for tumescent anesthesia = 55mg/kg.

90x55 = 4950mg

0.1% lido sln = 1mg/mL –> pt can receive 4950mL of the solution

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34
Q

In addition to LA toxicity, what are other potential complications of a large volume of tumescent anesthesia?

A

pulmonary edema d/t volume overload

  • if CV collapse, first calculate max dose of lido received - if acceptable range, then consider pulmonary edema or PE.
  • GA is recommended if >2-3L of tumescent sln is injected.
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35
Q

Name the two LA that are most likely to produce a L shift of the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve. Why does this happen?

A

prilocaine & benzocaine; they can cause methemoglobinemia.

O2 binding site on the heme portion of Hgb contains an ion molecule in Fe++ form.

  • oxidation of Fe++ to Fe+++ creates metHgb
  • metHgb impairs O2 binding & unbinding from the Hgb molecule, shifting the curve to the L –> physiologic anemia.
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36
Q

What drugs are capable of causing metHgb?

A

LA:

  • benzocaine
  • cetacaine (contains benzocaine)
  • prilocaine
  • EMLA (prilocaine + lidocaine)

others:
- SNP
- NTG
- sulfonamides
- phenytoin

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37
Q

What are the s/s of metHgb?

A
hypoxia
cyanosis 
chocolate colored blood
tachycardia
tachypnea
MS changes
coma or death

**cyanosis in the presence of a normal PaO2 is highly suggestive of metHgb

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38
Q

What is the treatment for metHgb? How does it work?

A

methylene blue 1-2mg/kg over 5mins up to a max of 7-8mg/kg.

methylene blue is metabolized by methemoglobin reductase to form leucomethylene blue. This metabolite functions as an e- donor & reduces metHgb (Fe+++) back to Hgb (Fe++)

other considerations:

  • those w/ G6PD don’t have methemoglobin reductase, so an exchange transfusion may be required.
  • fHgb is relatively deficient in methemoglobin reductase, making it susceptible to oxidation –> neonates are at a higher risk for toxicity.
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39
Q

Name two populations who are at an increased risk for developing metHgb.

A

G6PD (lack methemoglobin reductase)

neonates (relative deficient in methemoglobin reductase)

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40
Q

What are the constituents of EMLA cream?

A

5% EMLA = 50/50 of 2.5% lidocaine & 2.5% prilocaine

prilocaine is metabolized to o-toluidine, which oxidizes Hgb to metHgb. infants and small children are more likely to become toxic.

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41
Q

What is the max dose for EMLA cream?

A

<5kg: 1g over 10cm2
5-10kg: 2g over 20cm2
10-20kg: 10g over 100cm2
>20kg: 20g over 200cm2

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42
Q

How does sodium bicarb affect LA onset of action. Are there any other benefits?

A

shortens LA onset time.

alkalization increases # of lipid soluble molecules, which speeds up onset.

  • 1mL of 8.4% sodium bicarb w/ 10mL of LA
  • it also reduces pain on injection
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43
Q

How does adding epi affect the DOA of LA

A

extends LA duration

vasoconstrictor effects decreases systemic uptake of LA –> prolonging block duration & enhancing block quality.

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44
Q

What drugs can be added to LA to provide supplemental analgesia? What is the mechanism of action for each one?

A

clonidine (a2 agonist)
epi (a2 agonist)
opioids (mu agonist)

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45
Q

What drug can be used to improve LA diffusion through tissue?

A

hyaluronidase can improve LA diffusion through tissue.

hyaluronic acid is present in the interstitial matrix & basement membrane, hindering the spread of substances through tissue.

  • hyaluronidase hydrolyzes hyaluronic acid, facilitating diffusion of substances through tissues.
  • commonly used in opthalmic blocks to increase speed of onset, enhance block quality, & mitigate a rise in IOP
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46
Q

What are the 2 types of nicotinic receptors present at the NMJ? What is the function of each?

A

prejunctional nAChR (Nn)

  • present on the presynaptic nerve
  • regulates ACh release

postsynaptic nAChR (Nm)

  • present at the motor end plate on the muscle cell
  • responds to ACh (depolarizes muscle)
47
Q

Describe the structure of the post-synaptic, nicotinic receptor at the NMJ.

A

pentameric ligand-gated ion channel located in the motor endplate at the NMJ

comprised of 5 subunits that align circumferentially around an ion conducting pore

normal receptor contains the following subunits:

  • 2 alpha
  • 1 beta
  • 1 delta
  • 1 epsilon
48
Q

What happens when ACh activates the post-synaptic nicotinic receptor at the NMJ?

A

ACh binds the alpha subunits (1 at each)

  • -> the channel opens, Na+, Ca++ enters, K+ exits.
  • -> interior of the cell becomes more positive, opening the V-gated Na+ channels
  • -> depolarization occurs & AP is initiated
  • -> this results in Ca++ release from the ER into the cytoplasm, where it engages w/ the myofilaments & initiates muscle contraction
49
Q

How is the ACh signal “turned off” at the NMJ?

A

acetylcholinesterase is strategically positioned around the pre and postsynaptic nAChR; it hydrolyzes ACh almost immediately after it activates receptors

50
Q

Why are extrajunctional receptors sometimes called fetal receptors?

A

2 pathologic variants of the nicotinic receptors:

  • one w/ a gamma subunit in lieu of an epsilon subunit
  • one w/ 5 alpha subunits

extrajunctional receptors resemble those that are present in early fetal development. Once innervation takes place, fetal receptors are replaced by the adult receptors.

Denervation later in life allows for the return of both types of extrajunctional receptors. They are distributed at the NMJ but also throughout the sarcolemma.

51
Q

What conditions allow extrajunctional receptors to populate the myocyte?

A
  • upper/lower motor neuron injury
  • SC injury
  • burns
  • skeletal m trauma
  • CVA
  • prolonged chemical denervation (Mg++, NMB gtt, etc.)
  • tetanus
  • severe sepsis
  • muscular dystrophy
52
Q

What is the risk of using succinylcholine in the patient w/ upregulation of extrajunctional receptors?

A

w/out extrajunctional receptors, sux increases K+ by 0.5-1mEq/L x10-15mins

extrajunctional receptors are more sensitive to sux; they remain open for a longer period of time putting the pt at risk for hyperkalemia that can be lifethreatening.

53
Q

How do extrajunctional receptors affect the clinical use of NDMR?

A

those w/ upregulation of extrajunctional receptors are resistant to NDMR (potency is reduced) –> dose may need to be increased

54
Q

Discuss fade in the context of succ & NDMR.

A

There are two supplies of ACh vesicles:

  1. ACh that is available for immediate release
  2. ACh that must be mobilized before it can be released (req nAChR stim)

NDMR blocks #2, thus the only available ACh in the NMJ is #1, which runs out quickly w/ repeated stim (TOF) –> fade

sux stim #2, thus allowing for continued availability of ACh –> no fade

55
Q

What is the difference b/n a phase 1 and phase 2 block? What risk factors increase the likelihood of a phase 2 block w/ sux?

A

phase 1 = no fade
phase 2 = fade

2 situations that favor phase 2 development:

  • dose >7-10mg/kg
  • 30-60mins of continuous exposure (IV gtt)

if you get a phase 2 block, you have to just wait it out. Do not reverse.

56
Q

Compare and contrast phase 1 & 2 block in terms of TOF, tetany, DBS, and post tetanic potentiation.

A

TOF, tetany, DBS: phase 1 responses are diminished but equal (no fade); phase 2 responses have a fade.

PTP: absence w/ phase 1 block, present w/ phase 2 block

57
Q

What TOF ratio correlates w/ full recovery from NMB?

A

normal upper airway and respiratory muscle function doesn’t return until a TOF ratio of >0.9 is achieved at the adductor pollicis

58
Q

What is the best location to assess the onset of NMB? How about recovery?

A

onset: orbicularis oculi w/ the facial nerve
recovery: adductor pollicis w/ the ulnar nerve

59
Q

List all of the tests of recovery from NMB. What values suggest recovery and to what degree?

A

% = maximum % of receptors occupied

Tv >5mL/kg = 80% 
strong single twitch = 75-80%
no fade on TOF = 70-75%
VC >20mL/kg = 70%
sustained tetanus x5sec = 60%
no fade on DBS = 60%
inspiratory force >40cmH2O = 50%
head lift >5 sec = 50%
strong handgrip = 50%
bite on tongue blade x5sec = 50%
60
Q

How does succinylcholine affect HR? Why?

A

can cause bradycardia or tachycardia.

bradycardia:
- stimulates M2 receptor on the SA node
- a second dose increases the risk (esp <5yrs)
- succinylmonocholine (primary metabolite) is probably responsible for this effect
- antimuscarinics may prevent or reverse bradycardia

tachycardia:
- & HTN by mimicking ACh at the sympathetic ganglia
- in adults, tachycardia more common than bradycardia.

61
Q

Is succinylcholine safe to give a patient w/ renal failure?

A

it can increase K+ 0.5-1mEq/L x10-15mins

thus, it is safe in CKD w/ normal K+ level
CKD pts do not have an increased release, but the normal response to sux may increase the K+ to a dangerous level.

62
Q

How does sux affect IOP?

A

transiently increases it 5-15mmHg for up to 10mins

  • concern if the pt has an open globe injury
63
Q

How does sux affect intragastric pressure?

A

contraction of the abdominal muscles increases intragastric pressure. At the same time, sux increases LES tone –> these pressures cancel each other out, so the risk of aspiration is not increased.

64
Q

List name 5 names for the enzyme that metabolizes ACh. List 5 names for the enyzme that metabolizes succinylcholine .

A

ACh:

  • type 1 cholinesterase
  • acetylcholinesterase
  • true cholinesterase
  • specific cholinesterase
  • genuine cholinesterase

Succinylcholine:

  • type 2 cholinesterase
  • butrylcholinesterase
  • false cholinesterase
  • plasma cholinesterase
  • pseudocholinesterase
65
Q

List all of the drugs and conditions that reduce pseudocholinesterase activity.

A

drugs:
- reglan
- esmolol
- neostigmine (not edrophonium)
- echothiophate
- oral contraceptives/estrogen
- cyclophosphamide
- MAOI
- nitrogen mustard

conditions:
- atypical PChE
- severe liver disease
- CKD
- organophosphate poisoning
- burns
- neoplasm
- advanced age
- malnutrition
- late stage pregnancy

66
Q

How do you interpret the test results of the dibucaine test?

A

normal dibucaine # = 80.
- this means that dibucaine has inhibited 80% of the pseudocholinesterase in the sample and suggests that normal enzyme is present

dibucaine doesn’t inhibit atypical plasma cholinesterase. If the patient has a dibucaine # of 20 = atypical variant.

67
Q

What are the 3 variants of pseudocholinesterase, and what is the DOA of succinylcholine for each one?

A
  1. typical homozygous (dibucaine 70-80); DOA sux = 5-10mins
  2. heterozygous (dibucaine 50-60); DOA sux = 20-30mins
    - 1/480 incidence
  3. atypical homozygous (dibucaine 20-30); DOA 4-8hrs
    - 1/3200 incidence
68
Q

Why does succinylcholine have a black box warning?

A

details the risk of cardiac arrest and sudden death d/t hyperkalemia in children w/ undiagnosed skeletal m myopathy

  • caused by a MH like syndrome characterized by rhabdo
  • not due to MH
69
Q

Why is calcium used to treat hyperkalemic cardiac arrest caused by succinylcholine?

A

hyperkalemia raises resting membrane potential

IV Ca++ increases threshold potential, which helps re-establish the normal difference b/n transmembrane potentials

70
Q

How do you treat a patient who’s become hyperkalemic in response to succinylcholine?

A
  1. stabilize the myocardium:
    - CaCl 20mg/kg
    - Ca gluconate 60mg/kg
  2. shift K+ into cells
    - 10% glucose 0.3-0.5g/kg
    - 1U insulin/4-5g of glucose
    - 1-2mmol/kg NaHCO3
    - hyperventilation
    - albuterol nebulizer
  3. enhance K+ elimination
    - furosemide 1mg/kg
    - volume
    - hemodialysis
    - hemofiltration
71
Q

What is the difference in elemental calcium b/n CaCl and calcium gluconate?

A

10% CaCl = 27.2mg/mL of elemental calcium

10% calcium gluconate = 9mg/mL of elemental calcium

72
Q

Who is at the highest risk of myalgia following succinylcholine? Who is at the lowest risk?

A

highest risk = young adults undergoing ambulatory surgery (women > men) & those that do not routinely engage in strenuous activity.

Children, elderly, and pregnant patients have the lowest rate of occurrence.

73
Q

How can the risk of succinylcholine induced myalgia be reduced?

A

pretreatment w/ a NDMR

others:

  • NSAIDs
  • lidocaine 1.5mg/kg
  • higher sux dose

opiods don’t reduce the incidence

74
Q

Which patient populations shouldn’t receive a defasciculation dose of a NDMR?

A

pre-existing skeletal muscle weakness (i.e. myasthenia gravis)

75
Q

What patient populations are at risk for developing hyperkalemia after succinylcholine?

A
  • amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
  • Charcot-Marie-Tooth
  • Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy
  • Guillain-Barre
  • Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis
  • MS
  • upregulation of extrajunctional receptors
76
Q

Rank the NDMR in terms of ED95 (lowest to highest).

A

ED95 = dose at which there is a 95% decrease in twitch height.

smallest to largest:

  • cisatracurium
  • vecuronium
  • miva = panc
  • atracurium
  • rocuronium

the dose required to provide optimal conditions for tracheal intubation = 2-3x ED95

77
Q

What are the two classes of nondepolarizing NMB? Which drugs belong in each?

A

benzylisoquinolinium compounds:

  • atra
  • cis
  • miva

aminosteroid compounds:

  • roc
  • vec
  • panc
78
Q

Discuss the metabolism of benzylisoquinolinium NMB.

A

undergo spontenous degradation in the plasma. They are not dependent on hepatic or renal function for metabolism & elimination.

atra = 33% hoffman elimination & 66% nonspecific plasma esterases (same as those that degrade esmolol & remi **not the same as psuedocholinesterase)

cis = Hoffman only

Miva = pseudocholinesterase (same as succinylcholine)

79
Q

What factors impact Hoffman elimination?

A

blood pH
- increased elimination w/ alkalosis, decreased elimination w/ acidosis

temperature
- increased elimination w/ hyperthermia, decreased elimination w/ hypothermia

80
Q

What is the active metabolite of atra & cisatra? What is the clinical significance?

A

laudanosine (atra produces more)

  • CNS stimulant, capable of producing seizures
  • not a problem during routine administration in the OR - but may be a problem w/ IV gtt in the ICU
  • laudanosine has no muscle relaxant properties.
81
Q

Discuss the metabolism, elimination, and active metabolites of the aminosteroid NMB.

A

roc:
- no metabolism
- >70% liver elimination, <30% renal elimination
- no metabolites

vec

  • 30-40% liver metabolism
  • 40-50% liver elimination, 50-60% renal elimination
  • 3-OH vecuronium

panc

  • 10-20% liver metablism
  • 15% liver elimination, 85% renal elimination
  • 3-OH pancuronium
82
Q

What drugs can potentiate the effects of NMB?

A

IA
abx: aminoglycosides, clindamycin, tetracycline
antidysrhythmics: verapamil, amlodipine, quinidine
LA: probably most
diuretics: lasix
others: dantrolene, tamoxifen, cyclosporine.

83
Q

What electrolyte disturbances can potentiate the effects of NMB?

A

high [lithium], [Mg++]

low [Ca++], [K+]

84
Q

Compare and contrast the CV effects of NMB.

A

histamine release: succinylcholine, atra, miva

succ: autonomic ganglia stim (tachycardia) & cardiac M2 receptor stim (bradycardia)
panc: moderate cardiac M2 receptor blockade –> SNS unopposed –> tachycardia (roc does this maybe a little)

85
Q

Which NMB has a vagolytic effect?

A

pancuronium

inhibits M2 at the SA node, stimulates the release of catechols, and inhibits catechol reuptake.
–> increased HR & CO w/ no change in SVR.

can be used to mitigate opioid induced bradycardia in cardiac surgery.

86
Q

Which NMB should be avoided in the patient w/ IHSS?

A

pancuronium (vagolytic effect) or atra/miva (histamine release)
- don’t want the ventricle to contract too forcefully or too quickly –> decreased LVOT –> decreased CO & BP.

87
Q

rank the NMB according to likelihood of causing anaphylaxis.

A

succ > atra > cis > roc > vec

88
Q

How do cholinesterase inhibitors reverse paralysis caused by a NDMR?

A

acetylcholinesterase hydrolyzes ACh into choline & acetate.
drugs such as edrophonium, neostigmine, and pyridostigmine reversibly inhibit AChE –> increasing the [ACh] at the NMJ. Increased [ACh] = more competive binding for the alpha subunits on the nAChR

89
Q

List 3 ways to inhibit acetylcholinesterase. Give examples of each.

A
  1. electrostatic attachment (competitive inhibition - edrophonium)
  2. formation of carbamyl esters (competitive inhibition - neostigmine, pyridostigmine, physostigmine)
  3. phosphorylation (noncompetitive inhibition - organophosphates & echothiopate)
90
Q

regarding edrophonium, what is the dose, onset, duration, metabolism, and best antimuscarinic pairing?

A
dose 0.5-1mg/kg
onset 1-2mins
duration 30-60mins
metabolism 75% renal, 25% hepatic
best pairing atropine
91
Q

regarding neostigmine, what is the dose, onset, duration, metabolism, and best antimuscarinc pairing?

A
dose 0.02-0.07mg/kg
onset 5-15mins
duration 45-90mins
metabolism 50/50 renal/hepatic
best pairing glycopyrrolate
92
Q

regarding pyridostigmine, what is the dose, onset, duration, metabolism, and best antimuscarinic pairing?

A
dose 0.1-0.3mg/kg
onset 10-20mins
duration 60-120min
metablism 75% renal, 25% hepatic
best pairing glycopyrrolate
93
Q

How does renal failure affect the dosing of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors after an aminosteroid NMB is administered?

A

renal failure prolonges the DOA for both AChE inhibitors & aminosteroid NMB

since both drugs will remain in the body for a longer period of time there is no need to adjust dosing or re-dose it.

94
Q

contrast neostigmine reversal in adults and children.

A

when compared to adults, antagonism w/ neostigmine is faster in infants and children.

95
Q

Which acetylcholinesterase inhibitors pass through the BBB? Which do not? Why?

A

physostigmine is a tertiary amine - thus it passes through the BBB

edrophonium, neostigmine, and pyridostigmine are quaternary amines - they carry a positive charge w/ them that prevents them from passing through the BBB

96
Q

List the side effects of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors

A
DUMBBELLS
Diarrhea
Urination
Miosis
Bradycardia
Bronchoconstriction
Emesis
Lacrimation
Laxation
Salivation
97
Q

Compare and contrast the side effects of atropine, scopolamine, and glycopyrrolate.

A
tachycardia: atr > glyco > scop
smooth m relaxation:  atr/glyco > scop
sedation: scop > atr > glyco
antisialagogue: scop > glyco > atr
mydriasis: scop > atr > glyco
antinausea: scop > atr > glyco
decreased gastric H+ section: all same
affect fetal HR: scop might
98
Q

Which antimuscarinics pass through the BBB? Which do not? Why?

A

atropine & scopolamine are naturally occurring tertiary amines (lipophilic) –> cross BBB (as well as GI tract & placenta)

glyco is a quaternary ammonium derivative, thus is ionized & doesn’t pass though lipid membranes.

99
Q

In what situations can atropine cause a paradoxical bradycardia?

A

small doses <0.5mg IV in an adult
this is probably d/t inhibition of the presynaptic M1 receptor on vagal nerve endings (this receptor reduces ACh via negative feedback loop)
–> increased ACh release & bradycardia.

100
Q

Do patients with a history of heart transplantation require an antimuscarinic for reversal of a nondepolarizaing block?

A

ANS influence has been removed from the heart - the HR is solely determined by intrinsic SA node firing.

For this reason, muscarinic antagonists do not affect the HR, but these pts will experience the other cholinergic effects from AChE inhibitors, so they should receive a muscarina antagonist w/ an AChE inhibitor

101
Q

What is the mechanism of action of sugammadex?

A

gamma-cyclodextrin made up of 8 sugars assembled into a ring. The ring encapsulates the NMB, rendering it inactive & unable to engage w/ the nAChR.

102
Q

What NMB can be reversed by sugammadex?

A

aminosteroid NMB: roc > vec > pan

no effect on the others.

103
Q

How does sugammadex improve safety?

A
  1. roc can be used for difficult intubation w/out the drawbacks of sux
  2. can reverse a dense NMB quickly, reducing the risk of residual paralysis
  3. allows for a dense block until the very end of the surgical procedure w/out the concern of delayed extubation.
104
Q

How do you dose sugammadex?

A

TOF >2/4 –> 2mg/kg
TOF >0/4 + 2PTC –> 4mg/kg

for roc only, if no twitches + >3mins post roc administration –> 16mg/kg

105
Q

How is sugammadex metabolized?

A

complexes & the drug alone are excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

106
Q

What are the two most significant risks associated w/ sugammadex?

A
  1. hypersensitivity
  2. in the event that additional surgery is required shortly after sugammadex administration, there is a concern about hte ability to reparalyze the patient w/ an aminosteroid NMB
    - larger dose of NMB will be required
    - roc will have a longer onset & shorter DOA
    - may want to select a benzylisoquinolinium instead.
107
Q

Discuss the process of pain transduction.

A

experience of pain can be divided into 4 steps: transduction, transmission, modulation, and perception.

transduction:
- injured tissues release a variety of chemicals that activate peripheral nerves &/or cause immune cells to release proinflammatory compounds
- peripheral nerves transduce this chemical soup into an AP

108
Q

What type of nerve fibers transmit pain?

A

A-delta: fast pain (sharp & well localized)

C: slow pain (dull & poorly localized)

109
Q

What is the role of inflammation in pain transduction?

A

inflammation contributes to:

  • reduced threshold to pain stimulus (allodynia)
  • increased response to pain stimulus (hyperalgesia)
110
Q

Discuss the process of pain transmission.

A

the pain signal is relayed through the three neuron afferent pain pathway along the spinothalamic tract.

first order neuron: periphery –> dorsal horn (cell body in the dorsal root ganglion)
second order neuron: dorsal horn –> thalamus (cell body in dorsal horn)
third order neuron: thalamus –> cerebral cortex (cell body in the thalamus).

111
Q

Discuss the process of pain modulation.

A

pain signal is modified (inhibited or augmented) as it advances toward the cerebral cortex).

Most important site of modulation = substantia gelatinosa in the dorsal horn (rexed lamina II & III)
- descending inhibitory pain pathway begins in the periaqueductal gray & rostoventral medulla, projecting to the substantia gelatinosa.

pain is inhibited when:

  • spinal neurons release GABA & glycine (inhibitory neurotransmitters)
  • descending pain pathways release NE, 5-HT, and endorphins

pain is augmented by:

  • central sensitization
  • wind up phenomenon.
112
Q

Discuss the process of pain perception.

A

perception describes the processing of afferent pain signals in the cerebral cortex & limbic system.

how we “feel” about pain.

113
Q

What is the mechanism of action of opioids?

A

each opioid receptor is linked to a G protein.

GPCR agonism –> decrease in adenylate cyclase –> decreased cAMP –> alteration of ionic currents & reduction of neuronal function

  • closes Ca++ channels (reducing neurotransmitter release from presynaptic neuron)
  • opens K+ channel (inward rectifier) (hyperpolarizes postsynaptic neuron, making it more resistant to stimulation)
114
Q

What are the precursors of the endogenous opioids?

A

pre-proopiomelanocortin –> endorphins (mu receptor)

pre-enkephalin –> enkephalins (delta receptor)

pre-dynorphin –> dynorpins (kappa receptor)