Chapter 21 - Drugs for Neuromuscular Disorders

Question 1

Cyclobenzaprine Class: Central Acting Skeletal Muscle Relaxant

Answer 1

Action:
Inhibiting upper-motor-neuron activity within the brain and/or spinal cord, which causes CNS depression and/or alterations in simple spinal reflexes

Uses:
Treat localized spasms

Contraindications:
Children under the age of 12, MI, heart block, dysrhythmias, heart block, CHF, allergy, thyroid disease

Adverse Effects:
CNS depression, hepatic toxicity, physical dependence, and anticholinergic effects.

Patient Teaching:

• Do not discontinue abruptly
• Do not take with CNS depressants or alcohol
• To use gum or water for dry mouth
• Only for short term use
• Can react with MAOI’s/ do not take with MAOI’s

Pregnancy Category: B

Question 2

Dantrolene Sodium Class: Direct Acting Antispasmodic

Answer 2

Action:
Work at the neuromuscular junction, which interferes with the release of calcium ions in skeletal muscle

Uses:
Relieve symptoms of dystonia and to relieve leg cramps. Spasms for head and neck and Malignant hyperthermia

Contraindications:
Pulmonary, cardiac, and hepatic diseases

Adverse Effects:
Hepatic toxicity, muscle weakness, drowsiness, and diarrhea.

Patient Teaching:
-IV solution is very toxic to veins/ watch IV site

Pregnancy Category: C