7. Central nervous system stimulants Flashcards
(23 cards)
What are central nervous system stimulants?
Class of drug that increase the activity of the brain and spinal cord. They can be helpful in treating various conditions: respiratory depression, seizures and stimulate appetite in animals.
They are classified based on the site of action
Name the classification of CNS stimulants
- Cortical
- Central analeptics, medullary
- Peripheral analeptics
- Mixed analeptics
Give example of drug group for each of the site of actions
1. Cortical: Xanthine
2. Central analeptics, medullary: Xanthine
3. Peripheral analeptics
4. Mixed analeptics: Xanthine, doxopram
Active substances for xanthine
- Caffeine
- Theophylline
- Theobromine
- Aminophylline
- Propenthophylline
- Doxapram
Caffeine
Sometimes used to stimulate CNS and improve the respiratory function
Theophylline
Primarily used as a bronchodilator to treat respiratory conditions in animals.
They work by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways.
It can also have an anti-inflammatory effect and can increase the strength of the diaphragm contractions.
Theophylline, indications:
- Bronchodilator
- Dogs with congestive heart failure and fluid build up in the lungs.
Theophylline, administration:
Usually in tablet or capsule form, given orally.
Theophylline, side effects:
- Restlessness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- High dose ⭢ seizures
Theophylline, Precautions:
Heart and liver disease, seizure disorder
Can also interact with other medications.
Theobromine
Even though it is a CNS stimulant, it is toxic to dogs and can cause a range of side effects
In dogs and cats, theobromine is slowly metabolised and allows for toxic levels to accumulate in the system.
The toxin can be found in chocolate
Aminophylline, Indications:
- Bronchodilator
- Dogs with congestive heart failure and fluid build up in the lungs.
Aminophylline, Administration:
Usually given oral, in tablet of liquid form
IV = In emergency situations for rapid effect
Aminophylline, Side effects:
- Restlessness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- High dose ⭢ seizures
Side effects of xanthine
- Stimulate peptic acid secretion
Indications for xanthine
- Acute heart failure
- Bronchodilation
- Blood circulation disorders ⭢ Theophylline, aminophylline
- Overdosing of anaesthetics ⭢ coffeine
Doxapram, Indications:
- Stimulation of respiration of new born animals
- Respiratory depression caused by CNS inhibitory drugs and poisons
Doxapram, Contraindications:
- Convulsions
- Heart arrhythmias
Doxapram
Has a mixed effect, on both central and peripheral centre.
It has a broad therapeutic index, making it a safe drug
Pharmacological effect of xanthine
- CNS stimulation, but overdosing can lead to seizures.
- Peripheral effects: Vasodilation, increased blood flow to the brain, heart, muscls and kidneys
Aminophylline, Precautions:
- Heart and liver disease, seizure disorder
- Can also interact with other medications.
- Monitor the blood levels, to avoid toxicity
Aminophylline
Primarily used as a bronchodilator to treat respiratory conditions in animals.
They work by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways.
It can also have an anti-inflammatory effect and can increase the strength of the diaphragm contractions.
Theobromine, Side effects:
- Hyperactivity
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Increased urination ⭢ hydration
- Vomting
- Diarrhoea
- Increased heart rate
