Central Nervous System Stimulants Flashcards
(22 cards)
What are some common side effects of CNS stimulants?
- Changes in blood glucose
- Increase production of stomach acid
- Increase blood pressure
- Bronchodilation
Side effects can vary depending on the specific stimulant used and dosage.
What are the side effects of small doses of caffeine?
- Intense euphoria
- Decrease hunger
- Illusions of physical strength
- Increased sensory perception
Small doses can lead to heightened feelings and perceptions.
What are the side effects of large doses of caffeine?
- Increased rapid heartbeat
- Sweating
- Dilation of pupils
- Elevated body temperature
High doses can lead to significant physiological changes.
What are the adverse effects of cocaine?
- Dysrhythmias
- Convulsions
- Stroke
- Death
Cocaine can have severe and potentially fatal consequences.
List examples of drugs classified under CNS stimulants.
- Amphetamines (Adderall)
- Dextroamphetamines
- Methamphetamines (Desoxyn)
- Methcathinone
- Methylphenidate
- Cocaine
- Caffeine
These drugs vary in their legal status and potential for abuse.
What therapeutic actions do CNS stimulants perform?
They increase the activity of the CNS, promoting awareness and wakefulness by activating neurons in the brain (Reticular Formation).
This activation is crucial for conditions like narcolepsy and ADHD.
What are the prescription treatments for CNS stimulants?
- Narcolepsy
- Obesity
- ADHD
- Drug abuse
These conditions benefit from the stimulating effects of certain medications.
Fill in the blank: Analeptic stimulants include _______.
[Doxapram]
Doxapram is used to treat respiratory depression.
What are common side effects of psychostimulants?
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased respiratory rate
- Dilated pupils
- Sweating
- Tremors
These effects can vary based on individual responses and dosage.
What are some adverse effects of psychostimulants?
- Seizures
- Cardiac arrest
These severe effects necessitate careful monitoring during treatment.
True or False: Analeptics can amplify the effects of other stimulants.
True
This interaction increases the risk of side effects.
What food interactions can affect the efficacy of analeptics?
- Caffeine
- High-fat meals
These can alter absorption and effectiveness of the medication.
What can lead to overdose when using analeptics?
Excessive use can lead to seizures, arrhythmias, or respiratory distress.
Long-term use may also result in dependence.
What is a nursing implication regarding patient education for CNS stimulants?
- Understanding CNS stimulants
- Proper usage
- Potential side effects
- Drug and food interactions
- Monitoring and follow-ups
Nurses play a key role in ensuring safe and effective medication use.
What should nurses monitor in patients using CNS stimulants?
- Substance tolerance
- Respiratory complications post-surgery
Ensuring proper monitoring can mitigate risks associated with these medications.
Fill in the blank: Chronic use of prescribed drugs can lead to _______.
[addiction]
This highlights the importance of using the lowest effective dose.
What are the cardiovascular effects of psychostimulants at high doses?
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia
- Arrhythmias
These effects can pose serious health risks.
What can combining psychostimulants with caffeine lead to?
Amplified stimulant effects and increased side effects.
Caution is advised when using these substances together.
What is the effect of acidic foods on psychostimulants?
They can reduce the absorption and effectiveness of psychostimulants.
Awareness of dietary choices can aid in treatment efficacy.
What should patients avoid when taking methylphenidate?
Other stimulants to prevent serious adverse reactions.
This includes avoiding coffee to prevent additive effects.
What is a key nursing intervention for patients with chronic substance use?
Encourage formation of new social contacts and promote a drug-free lifestyle.
This can help prevent relapse into drug-seeking behavior.
What can happen if a patient taking a CNS stimulant experiences insomnia?
They should take the stimulant 4-6 hours before bedtime.
Timing can help mitigate sleep disturbances.
