URI pharm Flashcards
drugs to treat URIs
antihistamines
sympathomimetics
antitussives
expectorants
antihistamines
block histamine
for: allergies, cold and flu symptoms
treat: edema, inflammation, itchy, rash, red/watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing
first generation antihistamines
diphenhydramine (benadryl)
^ IM, IV, PO
induce sleep, prevent motion sickness, reduce anxiety
*caution while driving, avoid alcohol
SE: sedation, dry mouth, dizziness, low BP
second generation antihistamines
cetirizine (Zyrtec)
loratidine (claritin)
fexofenadine (allegra)
^PO
much less sedating
doesn’t affect CNS receptors
sympathomimetics
decongestant
phenylephrine and pseudophedrine
phenylephrine and pseudophedrine: MOA
mimics SNS and activates alpha1 adrenergic receptors
causes vasoconstriction of blood vessels –> nasal turbinates shrink and open nasal passage
phenylephrine and pseudophedrine: for and SE
reduce nasal congestion, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, common cold
SE: agitation, insomnia, anxiety, high HR, heart palpitations
phenylephrine and pseudophedrine: pt teaching
do not use for > 4 days
*rebound nasal congestion if abruptly stopped after long-term use (TAPER OFF)
pseudophedrine
potential for abuse
*has an active ingredient in meth
*OTC -> pharm counter
*limit how much people can get
antitussives
dextromethorphan
codeine
benzonatate
antitussives: MOA
directly suppresses the cough reflex in the brain
antitussives: indications + SE
route: PO, syrups/sprays/cough drops
SE: CNS depressant
**DO NOT TAKE WITH OTHER CNS DEPRESSANTS
*Potential for ABUSE
expectorant
guaifenesin (mucinex)
guaifenesin: MOA
expectorant
reduction in surface tension –> thins mucus –> can expectorate easier
guaifenesin: SE and considerations
few, mild GI distress
