Central-Acting Alpha-2 Agonists

Question 1

Identify the action of Central-Acting Alpha-2 Agonists.

Answer 1

depresses vasomotor center in brain to decrease sympathetic response

Question 2

Identify the intended effects of Central-Acting Alpha-2 Agonists.

Answer 2

Cardiac:
* slight decrease in cardiac output
* bradycardia

Peripheral:
* decrease vascular resistance

Question 3

Identify other effects of Central-Acting Alpha-2 Agonists.

Answer 3

a bit sedating, can be used for anxiety

Question 4

What are the uses for Central-Acting Alpha-2 Agonists?

Answer 4

Primarily: hypertension
Also: anxiety

Question 5

What are the routes for Central-Acting Alpha-2 Agonists?

Answer 5

patch, oral

Question 6

Describe patch use of clonidine.

Answer 6

clean, dry, hairless skin
torso, upper arm,
change every 7 days or as soon as it falls of

Question 7

Describe considerations for stopping clonidine.

Answer 7

Must be tapered off slowly.
If stopped abruptly, tachycardia.

Question 8

Identify adverse effects of Central-Acting Alpha-2 Agonists.

Answer 8

• dry mouth (usually resolves in 2-4 weeks)
• dizziness
• sedation

Question 9

Identify contraindications for Central-Acting Alpha-2 Agonists.

Answer 9

• skin issues affecting patch use
• alcohol use, avoid alcohol
• avoid other sedatives

Question 10

What to teach with Central-Acting Alpha-2 Agonists.

Answer 10

• sedation, avoid alcohol
• patch use, replace immediately
• do not stop abruptly
• report: dizziness, edema