Drugs Flashcards
Perindopril
- ACE inhibitor
- Hypertension, Chronic systolic heart failure, Reduction of risk of MI or cardiac arrest in people with CHD
- 2.5-10mg daily
HTN: 5-10mg daily (elderly 2.5mg initially)
Heart failure: 2.5mg daily (initially) - 5mg daily
Reduction of risk of MI or cardiac arrest in people with CHD: 2.5mg-10mg daily
RENALY ADJUSTED - Blood pressure (4-6 weeks for response to treatment)
Electrolytes, renal function (esp if sartans are use) - Label 11, 12, 16
No potassium supplements
Dizziness
Angiooedema
Dry persistent cough
Frusemide
- Loop diuretic
- Oedema associated with heart failure, hepatic cirrhosis, renal impairment and nephrotic syndrome, severe hypercalcaemia (accepted)
- Oedema: initially 20-40mg daily/ BD
maintenance: 20-400mg daily (Max 1g) - Electrolytes, weight, dehydration and dizziness
- Label 16 - dizziness (get up gradually from a sitting position)
Take in the morning (BD dose- morning and midday)
S/E: electrolyte disturbances, dehydration, metabolic alkalosis, gout, dizziness, orthostatic hypotension, fainting
Olanzapine
- Antipsychotic
- Schizophrenia and related psychoses, Bipolar with lithium/ valproate
- 5-20mg daily
Schizophrenia: start at 10mg daily (increase by 2.5mg-5mg), IM available once oral dose stable, short acting IM for agitation available for acute mania
Bipolar: oral 5-20mg daily
Elderly, renal or hepatic impairment: start with 5mg - Monitor response: 1-2 weeks, 2-3 months for full effect
EPS symptoms
Monitor weight, BSL, lipid levels, BP
Renal and hepatic function - Label 1, 8, 16
Can increase the effects of alcohol/ cause drowsiness
Take regularly- stopping/ irregular dose (high risk of relapse/ suicide)
Regular injections are more suitable for non compliance/adherent patients
S/E: dry mouth and constipation, sedation, anxiety, agitation, EPSE, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, blurred vision, constipation, nausea, urinary retention, sexual adverse effects, weight gain, hyperprolactinaemia, rash (SJS)
Linagliptin
Saxagliptin
Sitagliptin
Vildagliptin
- Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitor (DPP4)
- T2DM
- Linagliptin: 5mg daily
Saxagltipin: 5mg daily
Sitagliptin: 100mg daily
Vildagliptin: 50mg daily or BD - BSL/ Hba1c
LFT - Label 10a- No more than one aspirin
Allergic reactions generally develop in the first 3 months (monitor)
S/E- Hypoglycaemia, headaches, muscleoskeletal pain, pancreatitis
Warning symptoms of hypoglycaemia
Good diet and exercise inT2DM mx
Also comes in a combination tablet with Metformin
Metformin
- Biguanide
- T2DM
Anovulatory infertility due to polycystic ovary syndrome - IR:500-1000mg up to TDS Maximum daily dose 3 g.
XR: 500-2000mg ONCE DAILY
RENALY ADJUSTED (60–90 mL/min: 2 g daily.
30–60 mL/min: 1 g daily) - BSL/ Hba1c
Lactic acidosis
Renal/ hepatic function - Take with food to reduce stomach upset
Swallow whole (XR)- do not crush
Tell your doctor immediately if you have loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, cramps, fatigue, diarrhoea or weight loss.
Drinking alcohol can affect control of your diabetes. It can also increase the risk of serious side effects.
S/E: malabsorption of vitamin B12, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhoea
Lithium
- Mood stabiliser
- Prevention of manic or depressive episodes in bipolar disorder, Treatment of acute mania, Schizoaffective disorder and chronic schizophrenia (rarely used), Augmentation for treatment-resistant depression
- Acute mania: initially 750–1000 mg daily in divided doses (every 12 hours if using Quilonum SR®); increase dose by 250–500 mg daily (depending on serum concentration) until symptoms resolve. Maximum dose 2500 mg daily.
Prophylaxis: 250–1000 mg daily in divided doses (every 12 hours if using Quilonum SR®) for 2 weeks, then adjust dose according to serum concentration. - Concentration monitoring- take bloods 8-12 hours after last dose, measure concentration 5-7 days after starting treatment, every dose changed then every 3 months once stabilised.
Monitor conc closely during illness, manic/depressive phase, pregnancy, changes in diet or environment
Monitor creatine clearance, renal and thyroid function at baseline and every 3-6 months.
Monitor other medications - Label 5
Regular blood tests are important during treatment.
Be alert for signs and symptoms of lithium toxicity (eg extreme thirst and frequent urination, nausea and vomiting), especially during illness, excessive sweating or low fluid intake; if these occur, stop taking the tablets and seek medical attention immediately.
Take with food. Do not break, crush or chew SR, and avoid taking with hot drinks.
Maintain a normal diet with regular salt and fluid intake. Drink more non-alcoholic fluid during hot weather to avoid toxicity.
Avoid sodium bicarbonate (found in products such as indigestion medicines, eg Salvital®, and products like Ural®, Citralite® or Citravescent®) as it makes lithium less effective.
Spironolactone
- Aldosterone antagonist/ potassium sparing diuretic
- Primary hyperaldosteronism
Refractory oedema associated with secondary hyperaldosteronism, eg cirrhosis of the liver or heart failure
Hirsutism in females - Oedema: 25–200 mg daily.
Heart failure: Initially 25 mg once daily; increase to 50 mg once daily after 8 weeks if heart failure progresses and potassium concentration - Renal function
U+E - potassium
Other medications (triple whammy, digoxin) - Label 11, 12, 16
S/E: N+V, drowsiness and headaches, gastric bleeding
Sertraline
- Serotonin selective reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs)
- Major depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Panic disorder, Social phobia, Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
- Major depression: 50 mg once daily, gradually increasing as necessary to a maximum of 200 mg once daily.
OCD: 50 mg once daily, gradually increasing as clinically indicated to 200 mg once daily.
Panic disorder, social phobia: 25 mg once daily, increasing if necessary to 50 mg once daily after a week. - Efficacy- up to 6 weeks for effect
Serotonin toxicity
Sodium concentration
Suicidal thoughts (early in treatment) - Label 9, 12
Take in the morning.
Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly
Drug interactions
Temporary side effects at the beginning
S/E: nausea, diarrhoea, agitation, insomnia, drowsiness, tremor, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, sweating, weakness, anxiety, weight gain or loss, sexual dysfunction, rhinitis, myalgia, rash
Statins
- HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor
- Hypercholesterolaemia, high risk of coronary heart disease, Mixed hyperlipidarmia
- Atorvastatin: 10-80mg daily
FLuvastatin: 20-80mg daily
Pravastatin: 20-80mg daily (renally adjusted)
Rosuvastatin: 5-40mg daily
Simvastatin: Usually 10-40mg daily, for CHD usually 40mg daily up to 80mg daily - Cholesterol levels, LFT, CK levels, unexplained muscle pain or weakness
- Label 18- avoid grapefruit juice
Seek medical advice if urine is dark or any muscle pain, tenderness or weakness.
Compliance with statins is very important
Best taken at night
S/E: Myalgia, mild transient GI symptoms, headache, sleep disturbances, elevated aminotransferase conc, myopathy
Oxybutynin
- Anticholinergic
- Urinary urge incontinence
- Usual range, 2.5–5 mg 2 or 3 times daily; maximum 20 mg daily. Elderly, start with 2.5 mg at night and increase slowly if necessary. Patch: 1 patch applied twice a week 3.9mg/24hours.
- Monitor for adverse effects especially in the elderly and if pt is taking other anticholinergics
- Label 12
S/E: urinary retention, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation and confusion. Facial flushing (more common in children).
Patch: application site reactions (eg rash, itch, erythema, vesicles)
Rotate site of patch application
Lorazepam
Oxazepam
- Benzodiazepine
- Anxiety, Short-term treatment of insomnia (accepted)
- Lorazepam: Anxiety: 1-10mg daily
Insomnia: 1-2mg nocte
Oxazepam: Anxiety: Mild-to-moderate, 7.5–15 mg 3 or 4 times daily.
Severe, 15–30 mg 3 or 4 times daily.
Elderly: initially 7.5 mg 2 or 3 times daily, to a maximum of 15 mg 3 or 4 times daily.
Insomnia: 7.5–30 mg at night. - Dependence and tolerance
Elderly
Renal/ hepatic function - Label 1- drowsiness
Avoid alcohol and other medications that may cause drowsiness while taking this drug.
If you take this medicine regularly for more than 2–4 weeks your body may become used to it and in time, you may need a higher dose for it to continue to work. If you stop the medicine suddenly, you may have unpleasant effects. (label 9)
Ezetimibe
- selective cholesterol-absorption inhibitors
- Hypercholesterolaemia, Homozygous sitosterolaemia (phytosterolaemia)
- 10mg daily
- Cholesterol levels, muscle pains, tenderness or weakness
LFT
Mood changes - Tell your doctor if you have any muscle pain, tenderness or weakness.
S/E: Headache, diarrhoea, myalgia, deranged LFTs
Rivaroxaban
- Factor Xa inhibitor/ antithrombotic
- Prevention of DVT post THR/TKR, Treatment of acute VTE/ prevention of subsequent VTW, Non valvular AF and a high risk of stroke or systemic embolism
- DVT prevention: 10mg 2 week (TKR) 5 weeks (THR). VTE: 15mg BD for 3 weeks then 20mg daily, AF: 20mg daily
- Renal/ hepatic function, bleeding
- High doses needs to be taken with food
Take doses at the same times each day
See your doctor if there is unexplained bruising, dark urine or stools
Tell your doctor, pharmacist, dentist that you are on this medication
Do not double dose
Label 10b- no aspirin
Bisoprolol
Nebivolol
- B blocker
- CHF
- Bisoprolol: Initially 1.25mg daily then increasing slowly up to 10mg daily if tolerated
Nebivolol: HTN: 5mg DAILY
HF: 1.25-10mg DAILY - Monitor BP, heart rate and clinic status with each dose change
Renal/ Hepatic function
Caution in diabetes - Label 9, 12
Take in the morning
You might feel tired or lack of energy when you first start
S/E: Cold extremities, sleep disturbance (vivid dreams), bradycardia and hypotension
Valproate
- Anti epileptic
- Primary generalised epilepsy
Simple/complex partial seizure
Bipolar
Prevent of migraine - Epilepsy/ Bipolar: initially 600mg in one or two doses, increasing by 200mg daily every 3 days as tolerated, maintenance: 1-2g daily. Max: 2.5g daily
Prevention of migraine: 200-400mg BD - Monitor concentration levels- compliance/ toxicity
Mood changes or possible suicidal behaviour
FBE + LFT
BMD in long term tx - Label 9, 10a, 12
Take with food- reduce stomach upset
Your appetite can increase with this medication, watch your diet
Swallow whole
Can increase effects of alcohol
S/E: Tremor, hair loss, sedation and appetite stimulation (weight gain)
Tell doc if fever, rash, abdo pain, vomiting, jaundice occurs
Amiodarone
- Antiarrhythmics
- Treatment and prophylaxis of serious tachy- arrhythmias refractory to other treatment
- Loading dose: 200-400mg TDS then BD then maintenance 100-200mg daily
- Regular monitoring of thyroid function, LFT and electrolytes 6/12
Chest xray and ECG 12/12 - Label 5, 8, 18
Seek medical advice if issues with vision, difficulty breathing, dry cough or weight loss.
S/E: N+V, constipation, taste disturbances
Carbamazepine
- Anti epileptic/ mood stabiliser
- Epilepsy- simple/complex partial seizure and generalised tonic clonic seizures, Trigeminal neuralgias and bipolar
- Epilepsy: initially 100mg BD gradually increasing by 100-200mg every 2-4 weeks. Usual dose: 400-1200mg daily in spilt doses. (up to 2g might be needed)
- Hepatic function
FBE
Other medications
Changes in mood or possible suicidal thoughts
Concentration levels
BMD in long term treatment - Label 5, 9, 12, 18
Initially nausea and drowsiness
Seek medical advice if rash, fever, mouth ulcers, severe sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising develops
Can increase the effects of alcohol
Duloxetine
- SNRI
- Major depression, Generalised anxiety disorder and painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy
- Initially 30mg increasing to 60mg daily. Max 120mg
- Renal/ hepatic function
Clinical worsening/ suicidal thoughts
BP, U+E, other medications - Label 5, 9, 12
Take in the morning, unless drowsiness
Take with food
1-2 weeks before any effects, and month before improvement
S/E: Nausea, insomnia and constipation
Ferrous sulfate
- Iron supplement
- Prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anaemia
- 100-200mg elemental iron daily
- Haemoglobin levels
- Label 4 (delete dairy)
Take on an empty stomach but after meals if stomach upset an issue
Take for 3-6 months after Hb levels normalise
Swallow whole
Can cause black faeces/ constipation
Dapagliflozin
Canagliflozin
- Sodium glucose co transporter 2 inhibitor
- T2DM
- Dapagliflozin: 10mg daily
Canagliflozin: 100 or 300mg daily - Renal function
BSL/ Hba1c - Label 10a
Adequate hydration
S/E: higher risk of genital infections, polyuria and UTI
New drug: watch out for any other side effects
Be aware of signs of hypoglycaemia
Metoclopramide
- Dopamine antagonist
- Nausea and vomiting
Gastric stasis
Difficult small intestinal intubation - 10mg TDS
Total daily dose should not exceed 0.5mg/kg or 30mg
Can have higher doses: chemo
RENALLY ADJUSTED - Monitor in long term use: EPSE and depression
Renal/hepatic function - Label 12
Short term use only
Watch out for any involuntary movements
Ondansetron
Granisetron
Palonestron
Tropisetron
- 5-HT3 receptor antagonist
- Nausea and vomiting (chemo, post op, radiotherapy)
- Ondansetron: Usually 4-24mg in one or two doses. Max 32mg
Granisetron: 2mg daily
Palonestron: IV 250mcg prior to chemotherapy
Tropisetron: IV 5mg daily - IV- prolong QT interval
Hepatic function - Wafers to be placed on top of tongue to dissolve then swallow
S/E: Headache, constipation
Strontium
- Osteoporotic agent, DAPA
- Reduction of fracture risk in severe post menopausal osteoporosis when other agents unsuitable
Treatment of severe osteoporosis in men when other treatment unsuitable - 2g once daily nocte
- Monitor calcium and vit d levels
Renal function
Monitor patients with cardiovascular risk factors (VTE) - Label 4
Best taken at night, 2 hours after food
Mix one sachet with at least 30ml of water and drink immediately
S/E: hypersensitivity, rash, fever, nausea, diarrhoea
Clopidogrel
- Antiplatelet
- Prevention of vascular ischemic event in patients with symptomatic artherosclerosis (recent stroke, MI)
NSTEMI with aspirin
ACD with aspirin
Adjunct to reperfusion for STEMI unless CAGB us likely
Prevention of thromboembolism post stent - 75mg daily prevention
300mg loading dose in stents - Bleeding
Hepatic function - Label 9, 10a, 18
S/E: Diarrhoea
Seek medical advice if signs of bleeding
Pantoprazole Esomeprazole Lansoprazole Rabeprazole Omeprazole
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Peptic ulcer disease. GORD
Zollinger ellison syndrome
H pylori eradication
Prevention of dyspepsia, peptic ulcer and erosion associated with NSAIDs - Pantoprazole 20-80mg daily
Esomeprazole 20-40mg daily
Lansoprazole 15-60mg daily
Rabeprazole 10-20mg daily
Omeprazole 10-40mg daily - Long term use: Magnesium, VIT B12 and vitamin D levels
Hepatic function - Swallow whole
Take at the time of day when symptoms are greatest
Tell doctor if you notice black stools or dark vomit
Review use if symptoms are well controlled or symptoms not relieved in 4 weeks
Gliclazide
Glibenclamide
Gimepiride
Glipizide
- Sulfonyureas
- T2DM
- Gliclazide: 40-320mg daily in divided doses ( up to 160mg/single dose) MR: 30-120mg once daily
30mg MR=80mg IR
Glibenclamide: 2.5-20mg daily in divided doses
Glimepiride: 1-4mg daily
Glipizide: 2.5-40mg daily in 2 doses
Glibenclamide most likely to cause hypoglycaemia. Avoid in elderly - BSL/ hba1c
Renal/Hepatic function - Label 10a
Swallow whole with food
Signs of hypoglycaemia (sweating, fainting, hunger, palpitations) - educate family and friends
Avoid binge drinking, and always eat before drinking
S/E: Hypo, weight gain, rash
Quetiapine
- Antipsychotics
- Schizophrenia, bipolar, adjunct in treatment for resistant major depression, GAD
- Schiz: IR:25mg BD increasing gradually over 3 days to 150mg BD to 400-800mg daily
XR: 300mg daily increasing up to 400-800mg daily
Mania: up to 800mg daily - Weight, BSL, lipids and BP, FBE, LFT
Clinical improvement
Thyroid function - Label 1, 9, 12, 16
Takes time to start working
S/E: Dry mouth, somnolence, constipation, orthostatic hypotension and tachycardia
Do not crush XR tablets, swallow whole
Bimatoprost (0.03%)
Latanoprost (0.005%)
Travoprost (0.004%)
Tafluprost (0.0015%)- NEW
- Prostaglandin analogue
- Glaucoma, ocular hypertension
- 1 drop once daily, preferably at night
- Eye drop technique
- Label 7b (discard 28 days after opening)
Bimatoprost has single unit vials.
Best to use at night
If you are using more than one eye drop, wait 5 mins between use
S/E: eye irritation, blurred vision
You may experience changes in your eye, colour change and thicker eyelashes
Contact lenses should be removed before administration and can be reinserted 15 mins after
Azathiaprine
- Immunosuppresant
- Prevention of organ transplant rejection
Immune/ inflammatory diseases ie: RA, IBD, atopic dermatitis - Organ transplant: 1-3mg/kg in 1 or 2 doses
- Renal function
FBE, LFT
Signs and symptoms of bone marrow suppression, and liver toxicity - Label 8, 21
Swallow whole
Take with food to help reduce stomach upset
Tell doctor immediately if you develop mouth ulcers, severe sore throat, usual bleeding, bruising or rash
Can increase risk of infection: report any fever, muscle aches, sore throat
Venlafaxine
- SNRI
- Major depression, GAD, panic disorder and social phobia
- 75- 225mg daily
- Clinical worsening of suicidal behaviour
BP
U+E- sodium
Renal/ hepatic function - Label 5, 9, 12
Take with food to minimise stomach upset
Take in the morning, if they make you drowsy then take at night
Medication will take time to work
Temporary side effects: agitation, restlessness, nausea and sweating
If you develop a rash- tell doctor
Indacaterol
- Beta2 agonist
- COPD
- DPI: 150-300mcg inhaled daily
- Inhaler technique
Use of reliver - Use daily even if you feel better
Not a reliver
How to use Breezehaler
S/E: tremor, palpitations, cough and headaches
Famciclovir
- Antiviral: guanine analogue
- Treatment/ prevention of herpes simplex infections
Shingles - Cold sores: 1500mg single dose
Shingles: 250 TDS for 7 days - Renal function
- S/E: headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion, dizziness, rash
Treatment should start ASAP within 72 hours of shingles on set
Carry around a supply if coldsores are recurrent
S/E: Nausea, fatigue
Allopurinol
- Xanthine oxidase inhibitor
- Gout- long term tx
Urate nephrolothiasis or acute uric acid nephropathy
Hyperunricaemia secondary to disease or chemo - Gout: start 100mg daily then increase slowly monthly. Maintenance 300-600mg, max 900mg
- Plasma urate concentration
Hypersensitivity reactions
Renal/hepatic function - Label 5, 12
Take with food
If you develop a rash, swollen lips, persistent fever- seek medical advice
Adequate hydration during tx
S/E: rash, N+V, taste disturbances, diarrhoea
Risperidone
- Antipsychotic
- Schizophrenia and related psychoses
Bipolar disorder
Behaviour disturbances in dementia
Behavioural disorder in autism - Schiz: 1mg BD up to 4-6mg daily
Behaviour disturbances: 1-2mg - Monitor weight, BSL, lipids and BP
Renal/hepatic function
EPSE at higher doses - Label 1, 16
Will take time to work
initial S/E: dizziness, restlessness, lack of energy, insomnia
Digoxin
- Anti arrhythmic
- AF, heart failure
- Maintenance: 125-250mcg daily, elderly 62.5-125mcg daily
- Plasma concentration
U/E - Na/K
Renal function
Other medications - Label 5
Tell your pharmacist/doctors that you are taking this medication
S/E: N+V, diarrhoea, anorexia, visual disturbances
Colour of tablets
Nifedipine
- Calcium channel blocker- dihydropyridine
- HTN, Angina
- Initially 10-20mg daily increasing up to 20-40mg daily
CR: 20-90mg (Angina) 120mg (HTN) - Hepatic function
BP
Peripheral oedema - Label 9, 12, 18
Can take up to 2 weeks to reduce BP
S/E: Dizziness, headache and flushing initially palpitations, tachycardia
If you develop swollen ankles- seek medical advice
Seretide (Fluticasone/Salmeterol)
- Corticosteroids/ long acting beta 2 agonist
- Maintenance treatment of asthma
COPD - MDI: 2 BD DPI: 1 BD
- Reliever use
Inhaler technique
FEV
Temor/ palpitations - Label 14
Do not use as reliever
Use everyday even if no symptoms are present
Inhaler technique
Colchicine
- For gout and hyperuricaemia
- Relief of pain in acute gout
Prophylaxis of recurrent gout
Familiar mediterranean fever
Acute/recurrent pericarditis - Acute gout: 1mg asap then 500mcg 1 hour later (max 1.5mg) Do not repeat within 3 days
Prophylaxis: 500mcg daily or BD - Renal function
LFT
Other medications
FBE - Label 5, 18
Stop and tell doc if severe diarrhoea, vomiting, abdo pain, muscle weakness, numbness or tingling in the fingers, unusual bleeding or bruising or signs of infection.
Paracetamol can be used as pain relief in acute gout
Prednisolone
- Corticosteroid
- Inflammatory conditions: acute asthma, acute gout, croup, inflammatory diseases
Chemotherapy protocols - 5-60mg daily (variable)
4: BSL
Hepatic function
Calcium/vitamin D supplementation in long term treatment - Label 9 for long term users
Take in the morning
Promethazine
- Sedating antihistamine
- Allergic conditions, itch, N+V and sedation (short term)
- 10-25mg twice to four times daily (Max 100mg)
- Duration of use
- Label 1
Travel sickness: take night before and repeat 6-8 hours after if needed. Or take 1-2 hours before travelling
Tramadol
- Opioid like analgesia
- Moderate to severe pain
- 50-100mg up to QID max 400mg daily (CR: use 100mg BD then increase)
- Renal /hepatic function
Other medications (Serotonin syndrome/ decrease seizure threshold)
Dependence - Label 1, 5
S/E: Dizziness, nausea, sweating, dry mouth, constipation
CR: swallow whole
Betahistine
- Histamine analogue
- Menieres disease
- 8-16mg TDS
- ?
- Take with food to reduce stomach upset
May take several weeks before full effect is reached
S/E: headache, nausea, dyspepsi
Methotrexate
- Immunosuppresant
- Cancer treatment, RA, psoriasis, chrons disease, ectopic pregancy
- 5-20mg weekly
- Renal/hepatic function
FBE
Pulmonary function test and chest xray - Label 8, 10a, 21
Once weekly!
Tell doc if you have a cough, difficulty breathing or any signs of infection
S/E: GI - folic acid recommended or reduce dose
Takes time to work (1-2 months before any effect)
Haloperidol
- Antipsychotic
- Acute and chronic psychoses
acute mania
tourettes syndrome and other choreas
Adjunct tx in hallucinations due to alcohol withdrawal
short term mx of acute/severe anxiety, agitation or disturbed behaviour in non psychotic disorders. - Chronic psychoses- 1-15mg daily in divided doses
Acute psychoses- im/iv 2-10mg every hour prn - EPSE- in long term tx or high doses
Weight, lipids, LFT, BP, FBE, BSL - Label 1, 16
Anticholinergic S/E- dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation
S/E: insomnia, blurred vision
Benztropine
- Anticholinergic
- Parkinson’s disease, drug induced EPSE except TD and acute dystonic reaction
- PD: 0.5-1mg daily up to 6mg
Drug induced EPSE: 1-4mg D or BD - Other medications with anticholinergic properties
Can precipitate narrow angle glaucoma. monitor intra ocular pressure - Label 1 and 9 (in long term use)
S/E: Dizziness/ blurred vision (temporary), dryness of mouth
Daptomycin
- Antibacterial
- Complicated skin/ skin structure infections caused by MRSA
S. Aureus bacteraemia due to MRSA - Skin/ soft tissue infection: 4mg/kg daily
Bacteraemia/ endocarditis: 6mg/kg daily - CK: baseline and weekly. more if there are risk factors of myopathy
Renal/Hepatic function
Stop treatment if signs of peripheral neuropathy or eosinophilic pneumonia occurs - Tell doctor if you get any numbness, tingling, muscle pain or tenderness
S/E: N+V, headache, diarrhoea, rash
Prochlorperazine
- Dopamine antagonist (antiemetic)
- N+V, Vertigo
- N+V: initially 20mg then 10mg 2 hours later. If persistant: 5-10mg tds
Vertigo: 5-10mg BD or TDS
IM: 12.5mg Q8H PRN - Renal and Hepatic function
Monitor or movement disorders - EPSE uncommon, but can present as spasms of the muscles in the neck or face
Prolonged use can cause TD
Label 1, 16
Isotretinoin
- Retinoid
- Cystic acne, Keratinisation disorders
- Initially 0.5mg/kg daily then increased up to 1mg/kg after 4 weeks depending on response
- Renal and Hepatic function
LFT and lipids
Response and tolerance - Label 8, 21
Can cause dry skin, eyes, mouth and lips, use moisturiser, lip balm, eye drops
Acne may get worse initially, improvement within 10 days
Effects not seen until a few weeks
See doc if changes to vision, mood or development of a severe rash
Do not donate blood during and 8 weeks after treatment
Adequate contraception required
Cyclosporin
- Immunosuppressant
- Prevention of transplant rejection
Nephrotic syndrome
Rheumatoid arthritis
Psoriasis or atopic dermatitis
Immune of inflammatory diseases - Organ transplant: 8-15mg/kg daily in 2 doses
Other 2.5-5mg/kg daily - Renal function
LFT, Lipids, U+E, FBE, BSL, BP
Concentration monitoring in transplant patients - Label 5, 8, 18
See medical advice for mouth ulcers, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising
Visit dentist regularly and have good dental hygiene
Acamprosate
- Neuromediator
- Maintenance of abstinence in alcohol dependence
- > 60kg 666mg TDS,
Naltrexone
- Opioid antagonist
- Adjunct tx in alcohol dependence
Adjunct tx in maintenance and abstinence from opioids after opioid detox - Alcohol dependence: 50mg daily
Opioid abstinence: 25mg daily initially up to 50mg - Hepatic function
Effect - Label 12
S/E: Dry mouth, constipation
Tell doc immediately if you notice yellowing in the whites of the eyes, dark urine or pale stools
Thiamine
- Vitamin B1
- Prophylaxis of thiamine deficiency in high risk groups (ie: alcohol misuse, malnutrition, severe malabsorption, prolonged fasting and TPN)
- 50-300mg daily
IV: 100mg daily for up to 5 days then 100mg orally - Malnourishment - oral thiamine may need to be given parentally
Aclidinium
- Long acting anti cholinergic
- COPD
- 322mg (ONE puff) BD
- Lung function, use of ventolin
- Inhaler technique
Continue to use even if no symptoms
Celecoxib
- NSAID (cox 2 inhibitor)
- OA, RA
Pain due to dysmennorhoea or injury - 100mg-200mg up to BD (higher doses for short term)
- Renal and Hepatic function
BP - Label 10a, 12
Don’t take other NSAIDs
Seek medical advice if blood in stools, abdo pain, indigestion occurs
Fluconazole
- Azole (antifungal)
- Various candidiasis where topical therapy has failed
Tinea corporis, cruris or pedis resistant to topical therapy
Onychomycosis - 50-400mg daily
Vaginal thrush: 150mg single dose - Renal function
Hepatic function
Serum potassium - Label 5
Tell your doctor if you are feeling unusually tired, nauseous, dark urines, pale stools or yellowing of the white in the eye
Doxycycline
Minocycline
- Tetracycline
- Doxy: Acne, CAP, Malaria prophylaxis, Infections by M. Pneumonia, exacerbation of chronic bronchitis (heaps more)
Minocycline: Acne, infections susceptible - Doxy: 200mg initially then 100mg daily until course is complete
severe infections 100mg BD
Mino: 200mg stat then 100mg BD - Micro - pathogen
FBE - Label 4, 8
Take in the morning with a full glass of water and remain upright for 30 minutes
Take until course is finished
S/E: Nausea and vomiting
Oxycodone
- Opioid analgesic
- Moderate to severe pain
SR- chronic pain - Opioid naive patients: 2.5mg-5mg q4h
Titrate up according to response - Pain control
Renal and Hepatic function
Respiratory depression - Label 1, 18
S/E: drowsiness, constipation, N+V
Cannot use CR form for acute pain, cannot crush
Leflunomide
- Immunosupressant
- Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriotic arthritis
- 20mg daily (10mg daily if poorly tolerated)
- Hepatic function
Renal function
BP and FBE - Label 21
Swallow whole
Take time to work (4 weeks)
Contact doc if you get mouth ulcers, sore throat, fever, unexplained bruising or bleeding
Tell doc if you develop numbness or tingling of fingers
Don’t drink alcohol during treatment
Take a few weeks for medication to work
S/E: N+V, abdo pain, hair loss, hypertension
Has a long half life- side effects may last even when medication has been ceased
Pregabalin
- Anticonvulsant
- Neuropathic pain
Partial seizures - 75mg BD up to 300mg BD
- Renal function
Monitor changes in mood/ behaviour
Pain management - Label 1, 9, 12
Increases effects of alcohol
Stop gradually in patients that have been on it long term
S/E: Dizziness, blurred vision, fatigue, constipation
Ranitidine
Famotidine
Nizatidine
- H2 antagonist
- GORD
Peptic ulcers
Dyspepsia
Prophylaxis of stress ulcers - Ranitidine: 150-300mg daily
Famotidine: 20-40mg daily
Nizatidine: 150-300mg daily - Management of symptoms (if not improved in 4 weeks, see doc)
Renal function - S/E: quite well tolerated. constipation, diarrhoea, N+V
Calcitriol
- Active form of Vitamin D
- Hypocalcaemia in hypoparathyroidism, renal osteodystophy, chronic renal dialysis. Tx of osteoporosis and prevention of corticosteriod induced osteoporosis
- 0.25mg BD
- Plasma calcium concentration
Urine calcium/ phosphate concentration
Renal function
Other medications - Label 5
Do not take other calcium supplements
Follow dietary advice and avoid sudden changes
Tell doc if you experience weakness, nausea or vomiting, thirst, constipation or frequent urination
Acarbose
- Alpha glucosidase inhibitor
- T2DM
- Initialy 50mg daily increasing up to 50mg TDS (Max 300mg)
- HBA1c/ BSL
Renal function
LFT - Label 10a
Swallow whole with a little bit of liquid just before a meal, or chew with the first bit of food
S/E: Flatulence, diarrhoea, bloating, stomach cramps (should subside in a couple of months)
Hypoglycaemia warning signs/ mangaement
Avoid food with Sucrose (worse S/E)
Acetazolamide
- Carbonic anahydrase inhibitior
- Epilepsy (menstrual related or refractory)
Altitude sickness - 250mg up to QID (Max 1g)
- Seizure control
Renal/hepatic function
U+E - Label 10a, 12, B
Can cause black discolouration of faeces
S/E: Numbness, tingling of the face. Fatigue, drowsiness, electrolyte imbalance. Signs of allergic reaction- see doctor!
Aciclovir
Valaciclovir (prodrug)
- Guanine analogue anti viral
- Herpes simplex (treatment and prevention)
Shingles
Herpetic eye infection - Aciclovir: 200-800mg FIVE times a day (take every 4 hours during waking hours)
Valaciclovir: Genital herpes: 500mg BD. Shingles 1g TDS - Renal function
- Drink plenty of water while taking this medication
Important to start treatment as soon as possible (usually within 72 hours of onset for shingles)
Carry a course with you (herpes simplex)
S/E (tablets): N+V, headaches
Acitretin
- Retinoid
- Psoriasis
Keratinisation disorders - 25-30mg daily initially for 2-4 weeks then 25-50mg maintenance dose for 6-8 weeks.
- Lipids
LFT
Renal function - Label 2 (women), 5, 8, 21
Do not donate blood while on this medication and for 2 years after stopping
Will make the condition worse initially before symptoms improve
Dry skin, mouth, eyes and lips
Adequate contraception for females
If you develop headaches, N+V, blurred vision or mood changes- see doctor
Agomelatine
- Melatonergic antidepressant
- Major depression
- 25mg nocte (up to 50mg nocte)
- LFT
Suicidal risk - Label 12
This medication can make you feel sleep or dizzy, do not operate machinery until you know how it affects you
If you notice dark urine or pale stools, yellowing of the eyes or skin- Stop taking and see doctor immediately
Medication will take time to work 4-6 weeks for full effect
Take before bedtime
Alendronate
- Bisphosphonate
- Osteoporosis
- 10mg daily or 70mg weekly
- BMD, T score
- Label 4
Take on a empty stomach in the morning with a full glass of water
Remain upright for 30 mins after the dose
S/E: Nausea/ abdo pain, diarrhoea
If you develop severe pain in the muscles or joints, pain on swallowing, new heartburn. See doctor.
Ensure adequate calcium intake and maintain vit D levels
Alprazolam
- Benzodiazepine
- Anxiety
Panic disorder - Anxiety: Initially 0.25-0.5mg TDS. Range: 0.5mg-4mg daily
Panic disorder: up to 10mg daily - Dependence
Symptom control
Liver function - Label 1, 9, 18
Use for shortest period possible
S/E: Light headedness, dizziness, constipation, dry mouth
Amantidine
- Dopaminergic antiviral
- Parkinsons disease
Prevention of Influenza A in non immunised people (rarely used) - 100mg daily increasing up to 100mg TDS if needed
influenza: 100mg BD for 10/7 - Renal function
other meds with anticholinergic effects - Label 9, 12, 16
Take with food (reduce stomach upset)
Amiloride
- Potassium sparing diuretic
- Prevention of diuretic induced hypokalaemia
Oedema due to heart failure, hepatic cirrhosis or nephrotic syndrome (adjunct to thiazide or loop diuretic)
Can be used for HTN - 2.5-10mg daily
- Renal/ hepatic function
U+E (potassium) - Label 11, 12, 16
Take in the morning
Amisulpride
- Antipsychotic
- Schizophrenia
- Psychosis: 200-400mg BD
Maintenance: 50-300mg daily - Renal function
EPSE
LFTs
BP
Lipids
BSL/ weight - Label 1, 12, 16
This medication may take time to work
S/E: insomnia, sleepiness and constipation
Amitrityline
- TCA
- Major depression
Noctural enuresis
Neuropathic pain
Migraine prophylaxis - 25-150mg daily (max 300mg)
- Changes in mood and behaviour
Hepatic function
Other medications (serotonin toxicity, anticholinergic effects)
BP - Label 1, 5, 9, 16
This medication takes time to work
If daytime drowsiness is a problem, take tablet at night
Initially can cause drowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation, will disappear after a few days
Can increase the effects of alcohol
Amlodipine
- Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine)
- HTN
Angina - 2.5-10mg daily
- BP
Hepatic function - Label 9, 12, 18
Can take up to 2 weeks to reduce BP
If you develop swollen ankle- see doctor
Amoxycillin
- Penicillin antibiotic
- CAP
Acute bacterial otitis media
Sinusitis
Eradication of H pylori - 250-500mg q8h or 1g TDS (paeds: 7.5-25mg/kg)
- Infection symptoms
FBE, CRP
MCS - Take until all finish
S/E: Diarrhoea, N+V
Allergic symptoms- see medical attention
Amoxycillin + clavulanic acid
- Penicillin antibiotic + b lactamase inhibitor
- HAP
UTI
Otitis media unresponsive to amoxycillin - 500/125-875/125mg BD
- FBE+ CRP
MCS
Hepatic function for treatment >14 days - Take until all finish
Take with food
S/E: Diarrhoea, N+V
Watch for allergic reaction
Amphotericin
- Antifungal
- Oral thrush
- 10mg QID for 7-14 days
- Signs of white plaque
- Allow lozenge to slowly dissolve in mouth
Use after meals and at bedtim
e
Can cause black discolouration of faeces
Apixaban
- Factor Xa inhibitor
- non valvular AF and high risk of stroke/PE
Prevention of DVT post THR/TKR - AF: 5mg BD
DVT prevention: 2.5mg BD
Reduce dose to 2.5mg BD if (2 of 80 years old, creatinine >133) - Signs of bleeding
Renal function
Hepatic function - Label 10b, 18
If you miss a dose, take tablets immediate then continue taking at same time. Never double dose
Watch for signs of bleeding
Aripiprazole
- Antipsychotic
- Schizophrenia
Bipolar - 10-30mg daily (usual maintenance dose 15mg)
- BP, LFT, Lipids, BSL, Weight, FBE, EPSE
- Label 1, 16
This medication takes time to work
Can initially cause headache, light headedness, insomnia, drowsiness, nausea or constipation
Asenapine
- Antipsychotic
- Schizophrenia
Bipolar - 5-10 mg BD
- BP, LFT, Lipids, BSL, Weight, FBE, EPSE
- Label 1, 13, 16
Place wafer on tongue and allow to dissolve. Do not eat or drink for 10 mins after
The inside of your mouth may feel tingly for up to an hour after the dose
Watch for any allergic reactions
Can initially cause headache, light headedness, insomnia, drowsiness, nausea or constipation
Aspirin
- Analgesic, anti inflam, antiplatelet, antipyrectic
- ACS/ CVD
Relief of pain, inflammation, fever
Acute migraine
Kawasaki’s disease - ACS/CVD- 100-150mg daily
Pain- 300-900mg q6h Max 4g/day - Gastric ulcers
Bleeding
Renal/ hepatic function - Avoid use of other NSAIDs
If you develop signs of abdo pain, indigestion, heartburn, swollen ankles, signs of bleeding- see doctor
Atenolol
- Beta blocker
- HTN, angina, tacharrythmias, MI
- 25-100mg daily
- Heart rate, BP
Renal function
Respiratory conditions - Label 9, 12
You will feel tired, fatigue initially. Will improve
S/E: Dizzines, fatigue, indigestion, constipation, dry mouth
Azithromycin
- Macrolide antibiotic
- Severe CAP
Chlamydial infections
Travellers diarrhoea - STD: 1g stat
CAP: 500mg IV daily
Other indications: 500mg daily 3/7 or 500mg stat then 250mg for 4/7 - FBE
MCS - Take until all finished
S/E: N+V, diarrhoea
Baclofen
- Muscle relaxant
- Chronic spasticity associated with MS and spinal lesions
- 5mg TDS increasing up to 10-25mg TDS
- LFT (in patients with liver disease)
BSG (in patients with diabetes)
Renal function - Label 1, 9
Take with food
Avoid drinking alcohol- may worsen symptoms
Initially drowsiness, dizziness and nausea
Beclomethasone
- Inhaled or nasal corticoseteriod
- Allergic rhinitis
Asthma - Nasal: 50microg TWO sprays each nostril BD
Inhaled: 50-200microg BD up to 400mcg BD - Asthma control
Oral inhalation technique - Label 14 (inhaler)
Use regularly
Nasal spray will take a week to work
Device use
S/E: Nasal: nosebleed, nasal stinging, itching, sneezing, dry mouth, cough.
Inhaler: Hoarseness and oropharyngeal candidiasis
Betamethasone
1. Corticosteroid valerate- mod dipropionate- potent 2. Inflammatory skin conditions 3. Apply to the affected area Daily or BD (FTU) 4. Flare ups BMD in long term use 5. Apply enough to cover affected areas Apply after bathing Use emollient, soap free products
Brinzolamide 1%
Dorzolamide 2%
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
- Occular hypertension
Open- angle glucoma - Brinzolamide: 1 drop BD
Dorzolamide: 1 drop TDS - Renal function
Eye drop technique - Label 7b
Your eye may feel uncomfortable for a little while. If you have blurred vision, avoid driving or operating machinery.
S/E: Ocular irritation, bitter taste, foreign body sensation.
Bromocriptin
- Ergot derived dopamine agonist
- Parkison’s disease
Argomegaly, Hyperprolactinaemia - Hyperprolactin: 2.5-7.5mg daily
PD: 1.25mg increasing up to 5-40mg - Pituitary enlargement and symptoms for fibrotic disorders
Hepatic function - Label 5, 12, 16
Take at night
May initially cause nausea, headache, nasal congestion and fatigue.
Tell doc if you develop a persistent cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing or back pain.
Budensonide
- Corticosteroid
- Asthma, COPD, Croup (allergic rhinitis- nasal spray)
Crohn’s disease - DPI: 100-400microg BD
Neb: 0.5-1mg BD
Nasal: 32-64microg BD
Capsules (Crohn’s disease): 9mg daily - Device technique
Asthma management - Capsules: 9, 18
DPI: 14
Oral capsules will take time to work, best taken in the morning. Duration of therapy should not exceed 12 weeks
DPI: will not give you quick relief, when used regularly it will gradually reduce inflammation and improve your asthma
Nasal spray will take time to work, use regularly
Buprenorphine
- Partial opioid anagelsic
- Moderate to severe pain
Opioid replacement program - Patch: 5-20 microg weekly
- Analgesic effect
Respiratory depression
Constipation
Dependence - Label 1
Apply weekly to a clean, dry, non hairy area
Rotate site of application
S/E: N+V, dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation
Avoid direct heat on the patch
Cabergoline
- Ergot derived dopamine agoinst
- Hyperprolactinaemia
Prevention on onset of lactation
Parkison’s disease - Hyperprolactinaemia: 0.5mg weekly (up to 2mg weekly)
Prevention on onset of lactation: 1mg stat
Parkison’s disease: 0.5-1mg daily up to 2-3 mg daily - Hepatic function
In long term treatment: symptoms of fibrotic disorders, ECG - Label 12, 16, 21
Can initially cause nausea, constipation, drowsiness, light-headedness, insomnia.
Can also cause compulsive behaviour like gambling
See doc if you develop a cough, chest pain, SOB