Pneumonia and Influenza Meds

Question 1

What is Guaifenesin (Expectorant)?

Answer 1

Muccinex
Reduces viscocity of secretions and increases sputum volume=makes it easier to cough it up
It is used in the symptomatic relief of respiratory conditions characterized by unproductive dry cough
If expectorants are used for more than 1 week=CALL DOCTOR
Follow up with ample fluids
pharmacokinetics=unknown

Question 2

What are contraindications and adverse effects of Guafinesin?

Answer 2

Contraindications=pregnancy and lactation
Adverse=Mild rash sometimes seen, Nausea, Vomiting, Anorexia, Headache Dizziness
Prolonged use can mask an underlying disorder

Question 3

What is the antiviral drug in this exam?

Answer 3

Oseltamivir=Tamaflu
Have 48-72 hrs to give to those who are exposed but not vaccinated
Treatment should continue for 7 days

Question 4

What is the action, contraindications, and adverse effects of oseltamivir?

Answer 4

Prevents the release of newly formed virus from surface of infected cells=Inhibits replication
Only antiviral effective in treatment of Avian Flu and H1N1
Contraindications=hepatic or renal disease, pregnancy, lactation, cardiac disease, COPD
Adverse Effects: Fatigue, vertigo, dizziness, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Cough

Question 5

What is the antitussive on this exam?

Answer 5

Dextromethorphan
Acts on directly on cough center of medulla to suppress unproductive cough
Contraindications=Head injury (works on the brain), alcoholism (can become addictive), COPD/asthma, hepatic or renal disease, pregnancy and lactation, not for children<2 years old
Adverse=increased viscocity of secretions, constipation, drowsiness, sedation, Nausea, Vomiting,
Interactions=Alcohol and other CNS depressants; MAOIs
Take with food to decrease GI distress