C anti-acne; decrease sebaceous gland size H absence of acne E best taken in the morning with meals, it causes insomnia C have a pregnancy test, the drug is fetotoxic K ensure that the patient is not pregnant; discontinue the drug if visual disturbances occur.
ADRIAMYCIN (Doxorubicin)
C antineoplastic; antibiotic H (-) infection, CBC changes E best taken in the morning C may turn the urine red, can cause diarrhea, alopecia K increase fluid intake, the drug can cause hyperuricemia; assess for allergy
ALDOMET (Methyldopa)
C antihypertensive H decrease BP E take the drug regularly exactly as prescribed C impotence can be expected K check the BP, the drug may cause hypotension
AMINOPHYLLINE (Theophylline)
C bronchodilator H ease of breathing E best taken in the morning on an empty stomach, because the drug causes insomnia C stop smoking as it interferes with the drugs effectiveness K check the heart rate, the drug may cause tachycardia; maintain adequate urine output; avoid caffeine containing foods
AMPICIN (Ampicillin)
C antibitoic H (-) infection E best taken on an empty stomach C report the development of rash; drug may cause GI upset K perform a sensitivity test before initiating therapy; probenecid increases the effect of the drug; give it around the clock
ANCEF (Cefazolin)
C antibiotic H (-) infection E no specific C report the development of rash K assess for signs and symptoms of nephrotoxicity; not administered by push
ANTABUSE (Disulfiram)
C antialcoholic agent; causes an unpleasant reaction when combined with alcohol H patients avoids alcohol E best taken after abstaining from alcohol for 12 hours C instruct patient to avoid alcohol based substances like: M O F F A V S
M O F F A V S
M mouth wash O - over the counter cold remedies F - fruit flavored extracts F food sauces made up of wine A after shave lotion S - skin products K - inspect the patients belongings and confiscate alcohol based substances; monitor liver function test.
APRESOLINE (Hydralazine)
C antihypertensive H decreased BP E best taken with food C rise slowly from a lying or sitting position K monitor for signs and symptoms of orthostatic hypotension; monitor the heart rate for tachycardia
ASA (ASPIRIN)
C anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, anti-platelet, aggregate H (-) fever, inflammation, pain E best taken on full stomach C tinnitus indicates toxicity; avoid the overthe-counter cold remedy K assess the patient for bleeding tendencies; induce vomiting if overdose occurs
ATIVAN (Lorazepam)
C anti-anxiety, minor tranquilizer H decreased anxiety E best taken at H.S. or on an empty stomach, food delays absorption of the drug C the drug may cause: dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth; avoid driving; avoid caffeine containing foods and alcoholic beverages. K keep the siderails up
ATROPINE SULFATE
C anticholinergic, vagolytic, drying agent H it increases heart rate in a patient with heartblock, used preoperatively to decrease sectretions E best taken 30 minutes before meals C the drug may cause facial flushing; avoid tasks that require acute vision; avoid hot environment K check the BP, the drug causes hypotension, constipation, and drymouth
AZT (Zidovudine)
C antiviral; used to prevent replication of HIV H increased CD4 count E no specific C eat small frequent meals, the drug may cause change in taste K arrange for frequent blood tests, may cause bone marrow depression; give the drug around the clock
AZULFIDINE (Sulfasalazine)
C antibiotic; used as a treatment for ulcerative colitis H (-) infection E best taken with meals to decrease GI upset C report blood in the urine, rash, ringing in the ears, sorethroat; wear protective clothing, the drug causes photosensitivity, turns the urine orange-yellow K discontinue immediately if hypersensitivity occurs; increased fluid
BACTRIM (Co-trimoxazole)
C antibiotic H (-) infection E best taken before meals C changes the color of urine to red orange K assess for signs and symptoms of nephrotoxicity
BAL (Dimercarpol)
C antidote; use in the treatment of lead poisoining H increased lead excretion in the feces and urine E drug is only given per IM C treatment may need to be continued for 2-10 days K monitor for irregular heartbeat; monitor BP; administer deep IM; assess for allergy
CELESTONE (Betamethasone)
C steroid; stimulates lung development in premature infant H (-) respiratory distress in premature infant E given with food to reduce GI irritation C report signs of infection K monitor the weight; give once-daily dose in the morning to prevent insomnia; given 48-hours before delivery of premature infant to promote fetal lung maturity
CEPHULAC (Lactulose)
C laxative, ammonia reduction agent H decreased serum ammonia E no specific C report diarrhea K monitor serum ammonia levels; administer with juice to disguise the taste
CHLOROMYCETIN (Chloramphenicol)
C antibiotic H (-) infection E best taken on an empty stomach C report sorethroat and tiredness K antagonizes the bacterial action of penicillin; the drug may depress the bone marrow
CLOZARIL (Clozapine)
C antipsychotic H decreased delusions, hallucinations, and looseness of association E best taken after meals C report sorethroat and avoid exposure to sunlight K check the BP the drug causes hypotension; assess for akathisia, usually described by patients as 1 feel as if I have ants in my pants; assess for tardive dyskinesia initially manifested by tongue twitching or lip smacking
CODEINE PHOSPHATE
C antitussive, narcotic-antagonist, analgesic H relief of pain E no specific; given to lactating mother women 4-6 hours before feeding to minimize drug in milk C it can cause constipation; avoid driving K use laxative to counteract constipation; raise the side rails, it may cause drowsiness
COGENTIN(Benztropine Mesylate)
C antiparkinsonian H muscles become less stiff E best taken after meals C avoid alcohol; report difficult urination K the drug causes hypotension, so check the BP; evaluate the effect of the drug after several days
K assess for any sign of bleeding; keep vitamin K at bedside; do not give patient any IM injection; many factors (diet, fever, environment) may change the bodys response to the drug.
CYTOTEC (Misoprostol)
C synthetic prostaglandin; produces cervical dilatation; anti-ulcer (primarily) H (+) cervical ripening E given in early labor C report uterine hyperstimulation, nausea, diarrhea, flatulence and headache; assess for the presence of asthma, glaucoma, renal or cardiovascular disease
K prepare terbutaline at the bedside, it counteracts uterine hyperstimulation; have an IV line, oxytocin induction can be started 6 to 12 hours after the last prostaglandin dose; prostaglandin gel is applied to the interior surface of the cervix by a catheter or supporsitory or to the external surface by the use of a diaphragm; monitor FHR for 30 minutes after each application.
CYTOXAN (Cyclophosphamide)
C antineoplastic H decreased tumor size E best given in the morning to prevent hemorrhagic cystitis C alopecia is temporary; report sorethroat; report hematuria; dysuria immediately K monitor CBC, increased fluid intake; assess for signs and symptoms of nephrotoxicity
DELTASONE (Prednisone)
C glucocorticoid, anti-inflammatory H (-) inflammation E best given after meals, administer once a day doses before 9 am to mimic normal peak corticosteroid blood level C weight gain and increased appetite are common side effects; treatment is lifelong if used in Addissons disease; avoid exposure to infection; report unusual swelling
K check serum K level, may cause hyperkalemia; do not give live virus vaccines (OPV, MMR) with immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroid
DEXASONE (Dexamethasone)
C glucocorticoid; used in the treatment of adrenal insufficiency H - (-) inflammation E no specific C avoid exposure to infection; report unusual weight gain; sore throat K do not stop abruptly; assess for fluid and electrolyte imbalance
DIABINASE (Chlorpropamide)
C antidiabetoc agent; stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin H blood sugar level within normal range E best given in the morning with food, so sleep will not be disturbed by increased urination C take weight daily; protect the skin from exposure to the sun
K assess for signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia like drowsiness, diaphoresis, and dizziness
DIAMOX (Acetazolamide)
C antiglaucoma; diuretic; antiepileptic; used to lessen the signs and symptoms of Menieres disease H increased urine output, decreased vertigo in Menieres disease E best taken in the morning with meals C avoid driving K assess for unusual bleeding
DIGOXIN (Lanoxin)
C cardiac glycoside; increases force of cardiac contraction H normal heart rate in patient with atrial fibrillation E no specific C report greenish vision, sign of toxicity; take pulse everyday
K assess the patients heartrate, it causes bradycardia; assess for signs of toxicity (nausea, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea); monitor serum K level
DILANTIN (Phenytoin)
C anti-convulsant H (-) seizure E best taken with food to enhance absorption C massage the gums, it causes gingival hypertrophy; may turn the urine pink, red or reddish brown
K monitor for signs and symptoms of bone marrow depression; do not discontinue abruptly; use saline flush before and after IV administration; report skin rash
DIURIL (Chlorothiazide)
C diuretic H increased urine ouput E best taken with food early in the day, so sleep will not be disrupted by increased urination C protect the skin from exposure to the sun; muscle weakness in the lower extremities indicate hypokalemia K monitor weight
ELAVIL (Amitriptylline)
C tricyclic antidepressant; prevents the reuptake of norepinephrine H increased appetite; adequate sleep E best given after meals C therapeutic effects may become evident only after 2-3 weeks of intake K check the BP, I causes hypotension: check the heartrate, it causes cardiac arrythmias
EPINEPHRINE
C cardiac stimulant, bronchodilator H increased heart rate, easy breathing E best taken in the morning, it causes insomnia C avoid driving; eat small frequent meals K assess for tachycardia
ERYTHROCIN (Erythromycin)
C antibiotic H (-) infection E best taken on an empty stomach C report the development of rash K monitor liver function; adminsiter around the clock; assess for signs and symptoms of secondary infection
FERROUS SO4
C iron preparation; used in the prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia H (-) pallor E best taken on an empty stomach, if GI upset occurs, give p.c. C avoid milk, egg, coffee and tea, these decrease absorption; take the drug with orange juice to promote absorption
FLAGYL (Metronidazole)
C antihelmintic H (-) helminths E best taken with food C avoid alcohol; report severe GI upset, turns the urine brownish K interacts with antabuse to cause a psychotic reaction; the drug is teratogenic; instruct patient to take entire recommended dose
GARAMYCIN (Gentamicin)
C aminoglycoside, bactericidal H (-) infection E no specific C increase fluid intake; tinnitus indicates ototoxicity K monitor for signs and symptoms of ototoxicity, nephrotoxicity and nuerotoxicity
HALDOL (Haloperidol)
C antipsychotic; major tranquilizer H decreased delusions, hallucinations, looseness of association E best taken after meals C avoid exposure to sunlight K monitor BP, it causes hypotension. The long acting type (Haloperidol decanoate) is given once a month
C anticoagulant; used toprevent clot enlargement H prolonged PTT E no specific C report signs and symptoms of bleeding K monitor the patient partial thromboplastin time; keep protamine SO4 (antidote) at the bedside; do not give by IM injection
HEPARIN
INH (Isoniazid)
C antituberculous agent H (-) infection E best taken on an empty stomach C report tingling sensation in the lower extremities, it indicates peripheral neuropathy; avoid alcohol
K liver function studies should be done before the start of therapy; therapeutic effects generally occur in 2-3 weeks; adminsiter with Vit B6 to prevent peripheral neuropathy
KWELL (Lindane)
C - pediculicide/scabicide H effective if there are no lice in the hair and there are no eggs attached to hair shaft E applied twice: immediatley after diagnosis and a week after C may be adminsitered to all individuals living in the house; do not apply to face K use gloves to remove nits by using fine-toothed comb rinsed in vinegar
LARADOPA (Levodopa)
C anti-parkinsonism H muscles become less stiff E best taken with meals C avoid foods containing Vit B6 or protein rich foods since it decreases the absorption of the drug K ensure that the patient voids before receiving dos, it may cause urinary retention
LASIX (Furosemide)
C diuretic H increased urine output E best given in the morning C eat bananas and citrus fruits because they are good sources of potassium K monitor serum potassium levels, it can cause hypokalemia
LITHIUM CARBONATE
C - antimanic H - decrease hyperactivity E - best taken after meals C - increase fluid intake (3 L/day) and sodium intake (3 gm/day); avoid activities that increase perspiration K - it takes 10-14 days before therapeutic effect becomes evident;
K - antipsychotic is administered during the first two weeks to manage acute symptoms of mania until lithium takes effect; Monitor serum level, normal is 0.5 1.5 meq/L; NAVDA (acronym for lithium toxicity: Nausea, Anorexia, Vomiting, Diarrhea and Abdominal Cramps: Mannitol is administered if toxicity occurs
LOPID (Gemfibrozil)
C- antihyperlipidemic H- normal triglycerides levels E - best taken with meals or milk C- report severe stomach pain with a nausea, vomiting, fever, chills or sorethroat, severe headache, vision changes K arrange check-up including CBC, blood glucose, lipids especially during long term therapy
LOVASTATIN (Mevacor)
C anti-lipemic agent; reduces low density lipoprotein (LDL) H - decrease LDL levels E - best given with evening meal, for enhanced absorption C drug causes: headache, blurred vision, constipation, rash, pruritus; restrict alcohol intake, it worsen hepatotoxicity
K therapeutic response occurs in about 2 weeks with maximum effects in 4 to 6 weeks; monitor liver function test; store the tablets at room temperature in a light resistant container
LOVENOX (Enoxaparin)
C - antithrombotic; prevents the formation of clots H - (-) thrombosis E - usually given as soon possible or as ordered after hip surgery C use soft toothbrush and electric razor to prevent bleeding; report signs of bleeding: Nose bleeding, Bleeding Gums, Black or Starry stools
K administered by deep SC injection; not given by IM; abdominal fat roll is the best site; check the patient for signs of bleeding; alert the patient for signs of bleeding; alert all health care providers that the patient is on Enoxaparin; keep protamine sulfate, the antidote, at the bedside; Monitor the patients Partial Thromboplastin Time
MAGNESIUM SULFATE
C - anticonvulsant; tocolytic H - (-) convulsion E - no specific C - diarrhea is a side effect K keep the antidote, calcium gluconate at the bedside; assess the patients respiratory rate, (should be at least 12/min) deep tendon reflex and urine output, (should be at least 30 ml/hr)
MANNITOL
C - diuretic, use to treat cerebral edema H - increase urine output E - best given in the morning C - avoid alcohol and prolonged exposure to sunlight K monitor BP and serum potassium
MESTINON (Pyridostigmine)
C - cholinesterase inhibitor, used for treatment for myasthenia gravis H - increased muscle strength E - usually administered before meals C - report the development of rash, drug may increase peristalsis K monitor for muscle weakness; keep the antidote, atropine SO4 at the bedside
METHOTREXATE
C - antineoplastic H - evaluate tumor size E - no specific C - avoid alcohol; report black tarry stool and sorethroat K keep the antidote, leucovorine at the bedside; may cause birth defects; administer antiemetic to counteract nausea and vomiting; the drug depresses the bone marrow
A - avocado B - banana C - cheddar and aged cheese S soy sauce and preserved foods K monitor the BP
C - narcotic agonist, analgesic; given to decrease anxiety in a patient with pulmonary edema; promotes venous pooling of blood in the periphery, so it decreases venous return to the heart H - relief of pain E - best taken with food C - avoid driving; report severe nausea and vomiting
MORPINE SO4
K keep naloxone HCL (antidote) at the bedside; instruct the patient to lie down during IV administration; morphine causes more pain in pancreatitis because it increases the spasm of the sphincter of oddi, so avoid giving it.
NARDIL (Phenelzine)
C- antidepressant (MAO inhibitor) H- increased appetite; adequate sleep E- best taken after meals C- report headache; it indicates hypertensive crisis; avoid tyramine containing foods like: ABCS, it takes 2-3 weeks before initial therapeutic effects become noticeable
K- monitor the BP; there should be at least a two-week interval when shifting from one anti-depressant to another
NEOMYCIN SULFATE
C - aminoglycoside; used to reduce ammonia forming bacteria in the GI tract of a patient in hepatic coma H - (-)infection, decreased ammonia levels E - no specific C - report hearing changes or tinnitus; increase fluid intake K assess the patient for signs and symptoms of neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity
C - antianginal; causes generalized vasodilation which promotes blood flow to the heart muscles H - relief of chest pain E - best taken before any strenuous activity C place a tablet under the tongue at the first sign of chest pain Burning Sensation under the tongue is a sign of potency of the drug.
NITROGLYCERIN
C - facial flushing is a side effect; do not chew the tablet; keep the tablets in a dark container K - monitor the BP and heart rate
ONCOVIN (Vincristine)
C - antineoplastic H - evaluate tumor size E - no specific C - may cause: alopecia, nausea, vomiting and constipation; use birth control, it is teratogenic K instruct the patient that the drug is not taken during pregnancy
PANCREAS (Pancreatin/Pancrealipase)
C - pancreatic enzyme; helps in the digestion of fats in patients with cystic fibrosis and pancreatitis H - absence of fat in the stool E - administer with each meal and snack C - do not chew enteric coated capsules; the drug may cause abdominal discomfort or diarrhea K assess the patients stool
PENICILLIN
C - antibacterial H - (-) infection E - best taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water C - report the development of rash K keep the antidote, epinephrine at the bedside
PHOSPO-SODA
PITOCIN (Oxytocin)
C - oxytocic; used to induce labor after articificial rupture of the membranes H - firmly contracted uterus E - no specific C - report the development of rash K monitor the BP; discontinue if hypertension develops
K administer SC or IM only preferably in the deltoid muscle or lateral mid thigh; refrigerate vials, do not dilute; do not administer less than 10 days prior to or during treatment for Hodgkins-disease; have epinephrine 1:1,000 available at the bedside; indicated for patients at risk for pneumonia (children over 2-year-old, adult with chronic illness, elderly)
PROBENECID (Benemid)
C -antigout; used as a uricosoric drug in gouty arthritis; delays the excretion of penicillin H -decreased uric acids levels E -best taken with meals C -change position slowly K increase fluid intake
PROSTIGMIN (Neostigmine)
C -cholinesterase inhibitor; antimyasthenic agent H -increased muscle strength E -no specific C -report diarrhea, abdominal pain and muscle weakness; avoid hot and excessively humid environment K -keep the antidote, pralidoxime chloride (PAM) or atropine at bedside
PTU (Propylthiouracil)
C -antithyroid; inhibit synthesis of thyroid hormone H -decreased heart rate; adequate sleep E -take the drug around the clock at 8 hour interval C -treatment is lifelong; report the development of sorethroat, it indicates agranulocytosis K monitor the heart rate, it causes tachycardia contraindicated in pregnant patients
RADIOACTIVE IODINE
C -antithyroid; limits thyroid hormone secretion H -normal heart rate; adequate sleep E -instruct patient to fast overnight before administration; food delays absorption C -it will take several weeks (usually 6 weeks) before therapeutic effects become noticeable K -urine and saliva are slightly radioactive for, 24 hours after administration
RESERPINE (Serpasil)
C -antihypertensive H -decreased BP E -best taken with meals C -avoid sudden position changes K -monitor BP and heart rate
C -antibiotic; used in the prevention of disseminated Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC) disease in patients with advanced HIV infection H -(-) infection E -no specific C -report nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; body fluids may turn reddish-orange, contact lenses may be stained K -monitor CBC, it may cause bone marrow depression
RIFABUTIN (Mycobutin)
RIFADIN (Rifampin)
C -antituberculous H -(-) infection E -best taken on an empty stomach C -may cause body fluid discoloration (reddish orange urine or sputum) K -monitor CBC, it may cause bone marrow depression
RITALIN (Methylphenidate)
C - stimulant; used to increase attention span in a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder H -decreased hyperactivity E -best given after meals because it suppresses the appetite if given before meals; give it in the morning or at least 6 hours before bedtime since it causes insomnia C -may cause growth retardation K monitor growth and development
ROBAXIN (Methocarbamol)
C -skeletal muscle relaxant H -relief of muscle spasm E -no specific C -report skin rash; avoid alcohol; urine may turn brown, black or green in color K keep epinephrine at the bedside
STREPTOMYCIN
C -aminoglycoside; used to destroy the vestibular apparatus to decrease vertigo in a patient with menieres disease H -(-)infection E -best taken after meals, to decrease GI upset C -report oliguria, it indicates nephrotoxicity
K -ncrease fluids; monitor BP and pulse; the drug causes ototoxicity, nephrotoxicity and nuerotoxicity
SUDAFED (Pseudoephedrine)
C - antihistamine; decongestant H -(-) allergy; relieves E -best taken in the morning, to prevent insomnia C -avoid taking the drug near bedtime K -monitor BP and pulse rate
SULFAMYLON (Mafenide)
C -anti-infective H -(-) infection E -no specific C -cover burns at all times with the drug K -apply to debrided wound with gloved hands; bathe the patient in a whirlpool daily to aid debridement; monitor for toxicity (nephrotoxicity, bone marrow, depression, metabolic acidosis)
SYMMETREL (Amantadine)
C -antiparkinsonian, dopaminergic, antiviral H -muscle become less stiff E -no specific C -report swelling of fingers K do not discontinue abruptly
TAGAMET (Cimetidine)
C -histamine antagonist; inhibit gastric acid secretions H -relief of symptoms of heartburn, acid indigestion E -best given with food, when administering it with an antacid, give C -avoid smoking, it decrease drug efficacy
K administer IM dose undiluted deep into large muscle; infusion should be diluted in at least 50 cc of D5W
TAMOFEN (Tamoxifen)
C -anti-estrogen H -decreased tumor size E -usually taken twice in the morning and in the evening C -avoid driving, it causes corneal opacity; have small frequent meals, it causes nausea and vomiting; stay cool environment, it causes hot flashes K -not given during pregnancy
THEODUR (Theophylline)
C -bronchodilator H -easy breathing E -best taken in the morning to prevent insomnia C -avoid smoking K -signs of toxicity include: vomiting, agitation, and apical pulse above 200 beats per minute
TOFRANIL (Imipramine)
C -tricyclic antidepressant H -increased appetite; adequate sleep E -best taken after meals C -change position slowly K -monitor the heart rate, it may cause palpitations or cardiac arrythmias
TYLENOL (Acetaminophen)
C -analgesic; antipyretic H -relief of pain, fever E -take with food if GI upset is noted C -it can cause hepatoxicitty K keep acetylcysteine (antidote) at the bedside
C -live attenuated virus vaccines H -(-) measles, polio E -MMR is given at 12 months; OPV beginning at 2 months C -have written record of the vaccines K -before administering the vaccines, ask the parent if they are living with an immunosuppressed individual (those with AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, taking steroids; keep the vaccines refrigerated.
VALIUM (Diazepam)
C -antianxiety; given as a muscle relaxant to patients in traction H -decreased anxiety, adequate sleep E -best taken before meals, food in the stomach delays absorption C -avoding driving, intake of alcohol and caffeine containing foods, since it alters the effect of the drug K administer it separately, it is incompatible with any drug
K dilute the contents of 500 mg vial for injection, in 30 ml of water for oral or nasogastric tube administration administration; monitor renal function test with prolonged therapy; Monitor the patient for signs of red neck or red man syndrome (sudden and profound fall in BP, fever, chills, paresthesias, erythema of the neck and back)
VITAMIN K
C -antidote; promotes formation of prothrombin, given in neonates to prevent bleeding H -(-) bleeding E -no specific C -report the development of rash K -monitor prothrombin time, to determine dosage effectiveness
XYLOCAINE (Lidocaine)
C - antiarrhythmic, anesthetic; used to treat premature ventricular contractions H - normal heart rate E - no specific C - tinnitus is a side effect K - monitor BP and serum electrolytes; convulsion is the first sign of toxicity
YAZ
YUTOPAR (Ritodrine)
C - tocolytic, used to treat pre-term labor by decreasing the intensity and frequency of uterine contractions H - relaxed uterus E - no specific C - report increase in pulse rate, it causes palpitations
K - contraindicated before 20th week of pregnancy, in patients with hemorrhage, hypertension, infection, bleeding disorders and spontaneous abortion
ZYLOPRIM (Allupurinol)
C - antigout; used to prevent or treat attacks of gout H - decreased uric acid levels E - best taken with food C - instruct the patient to report sore throat, it signals the development of agranulocystosis
K increased fluid intake to facilitate excretion of uric acid crystals; avoid over the counter medications, most of these contain vitamin C which can increase the likelihood of renal stone formation
THE END..