Pharmacology

Question 1

Anit-Epileptic Agents

Answer 1

Action: reduce/eliminate siezure activity in brain

Indication: siezures

Side Effects: ataxia, skin issues, behavioral changes, gastrointestinal distresss, hedache, blurred vision, weight gain

Implications: adequate knowledge of siezure protocols/potential med side effects, pts may show greater sensitivity to environmental stimuli (light/noise)

Ex: Dilantin, Tegretol

Question 2

Antispasticity Agents

Answer 2

Action: promote relaxation in spastic muscle 2nd to CNS damage

Indication: increased tone, spasticity, SCI, CVA, MS

Side Effects: drowsniness, confusion, headache, dizziness, generalized muscle weakness, tolerance, dependence

Implications: balance decreasing spastic muscle w/ loss of function from reduced hypertonicity, focus on therapeutic handling techniques/ facilitation/ strengthening/ increased mobility

Ex: Baclofen, Valium, Dantrium

Question 3

Dopamine Replacement Agents

Answer 3

Action: relieve symptoms of Parkinson’s 2nd to decrease in dopamine production

Indication: Parkinson’s/ Parkinsonism

Side Effects: arrhythmia, gastrointestinal distress, orthostatic hypotension, dyskinesias, mood/behavior changes, tolerance

Implications: max benefit = 1 hr post admin, understand effects of “drug holiday”, monitor BP

Ex: Sinemet, Levodopa

Question 4

Muscle Relaxants

Answer 4

Action: relax muscles in state of continuous tonic spasm 2nd to musculoskeletal/ peripheral nerve injury

Indication: muscle spasm

Side Effects: sedation, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headache, tolerance, dependence

Implications: awareness of potential side effects, maximise potential for relax w/ therapeutic techniques/ modalities, prevent reinjury w/ stretching/ pt ed.

Ex: Valium, Flexeril