*Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health

drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

DRUG LIST NCLEX

ANTIBIOTICS
*All antibiotics have GI effects
Aminoglycosides -micin i.e. gentamicin Side effects: -Assess for allergies esp.
-mycin i.e. vancomycin, -Ototoxicity anaphylactic allergies
neomycin -Nephrotoxicity -Monitor appropriate lab values
-GI irritation prior to administration i.e.
aminoglycosides with BUN and
Vancomycin: Red man Cr
syndrome; administer over 60 -Monitor for adverse effects and
minutes report to HCP if they occur
-Monitor ins and outs
-Encourage fluid intake
-Emphasize importance of
completing full prescribed course
Cephalosporins (broad Cef- i.e. cefaclor, -GI disturbances
spectrum) cefradoxil, cefdinir, -Nephrotoxicity
cefotaxime, cephalexin -Superinfections i.e. C. difficile

Similar to penicillins;
contraindicated for clients with
penicillin sensitivity
Floroquinolones -floxacin i.e. Headache, dizziness, insomnia,
ciprofloxacin, depression
Floroquinol(one) bone marrow gatifloxacin -GI effects
depression -bone marrow depression i.e.
thrombocytopenia
-photosensitivity, fever, rash
Macrolides -thromycin i.e. -GI effects
azithromycin, -pseudomembranous colitis (c.
erythromycin diff colitis)
-superinfections
-Hepatotoxic

1
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

-causes a prolonged QT interval,

which may lead to sudden
cardiac death due to torsades de
pointes
Penicillins -cillin i.e. amoxicillin, -hypersensitivity reactions,
carbenicillin, ampicillin including anaphylaxis
-related to cephalosporins
-GI effects
Sulfonamides Sulfa- i.e. sulfadiazine, -hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic
sulfasalazine -bone marrow depression i.e.
thrombocytopenia
-photosensitivity
-ANY RASH WITH
SULFONAMIDES MUST BE
REPORTED TO HCP!
Tetracyclines -cyclines i.e. -GI effects
doxycycline, -hepatotoxicity
tetracycline -teeth staining and bone damage
-photosensitivity,
hypersensitivity

**Can cause pill induced

Antifungal medications
Antiviral medications
esophagitis. Clients taking this
should sit upright for a period of
time after ingestion to prevent
tablet from lodging in esophagus
Amphotericin B -gastrointestinal effects
-nazole i.e Fluconazole -neuritis, dizziness, headache,
Ketoconazole malaise, drowsiness,
hallucinations
-clovir i.e. acyclovir, -hearing loss (ototoxicity)
ganciclovir, foscarnet -peripheral neuritis

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 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICATIONS
Anticoagulants Oral: Warfarin, Prevent clot formation by Side effects: -contraindicated in clients taking
Dabigatran, inhibiting factors in clotting Hemorrhage NSAIDs, gingko and ginseng,
Rivaroxaban cascade and decreasing blood Hematuria corticosteroids, vit K containing foods
coagulability i.e. in MI, Thrombocytopenia (have this in moderation; no sudden
Parenteral: Dalteparin, mechanical heart valves, Hypotension increase or decrease)
Heparin, Enoxaparin, DVT, atrial fibrillation, -contraindicated with active bleeding
Desirudin, unstable angina -Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia can
Fondaparinux, be ironic in that it can cause stroke and
Tinzaparin, Argatroban embolism
Thrombolytic -teplase i.e. alteplase, Activates plasminogen which Bleeding -Contraindicated in active bleeding,
medications reteplase, tenecteplase digests plasmin and dissolves Dysrhythmias history of hemorrhagic brain attack
clots in cases of MI, DVT, Allergic reactions (stroke), intracranial or intraspinal surgery
occluded shunts and within the last 2 months, uncontrolled
pulmonary emboli HTN
-Apply direct pressure over a puncture site
for 20 to 30 minutes
-Used only for acute, life-threatening
conditions
Antidote: Aminocaproic acid

Antiplatelet Aspirin, clopidogrel, Inhibit aggregation of GI bleeding -may be used with anticoagulants
medications cilostazol, dypiridamole, platelets in clotting process, Bruising -used in prophylaxis of long-term
ticlopidine thereby prolonging bleeding Hematuria complications following MI, CAD, stents,
time Tarry stools and strokes
Positive Dobutamine Stimulate myocardial Dysrhythmias -used for IV administration; administer
inotropes/cardiotonic Dopamine contractility and produce a Hypotension with IV infusion pump
medications Imanrinone positive inotropic effect for Thrombocytopenia -monitor electrolyte (may lower K) and
Milrinone heart failure liver enzyme levels (may increase due to
-increases CO, decreasing Adverse effects: hepatotoxicity), platelet count, and renal
preload, improving blood Hepatotoxicity function studies
flow to periphery and Hypersensitivity- wheezing,
kidneys and increasing fluid SOB, pruritus, urticaria
excretion (hives, clammy skin and
flushing

3
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

Cardiac glycosides Digoxin Stimulates myocardial
contractility by inhibition of
sodium-potassium pump
-slows HR (negative
chronotrope) and slows
conduction velocity (negative
dromotrope)
-GI effects -used for HF and cardiogenic shock,
-headache anything atrial (tach, fibrillation, flutter)
-Early signs of digoxin toxicity present as
-visual disturbances: GI symptoms (anorexia, nausea, vomiting,
diplopia, blurred vision, diarrhea); then heart rate abnormalities
photophobia and visual disturbances appear
-drowsiness -hypokalemia can cause digoxin
-bradycardia toxicity; toxic levels above 0.5 to 2 are
-fatigue, weakness toxic
(POTASSIUM COMPETES WITH
DIGOXIN)

Peripherally acting -zosin i.e. doxazosin, Decrease sympathetic Orthostatic hypotension -Monitor for fluid retention and edema
Alpha Adrenergic prazosin, terazosin vasoconstriction resulting in Reflex tachycardia -Avoid over the counter meds
blockers vasodilation and decreased Drowsiness -change positions slowly to prevent
BP Nasal congestion orthostatic hypotension
Sodium and water
retention

Centrally acting Clonidine Causes vasodilation, Na and water retention -contraindicated in impaired liver function
Adrenergic blockers Guan- i.e. Guanabenz, reducing peripheral Drowsiness -Do not discontinue meds abruptly as it
Guanfacine resistance Bradycardia can lead to severe rebound HTN
Methyldopa Hypotension
ACE inhibitors and -prils i.e. perindopril, Causes vasodilation; treats Hyperkalemia -can cause hyperkalemia! Avoid use with
ARBs enalapril HTN and CHF Hypotension potassium supplements and potassium-
Persistent dry cough (ACEI) sparing diuretics
-sartans i.e. losartan, Angioedema (ACEI)** -Report side effect angioedema to the
eprosartan Hypoglycemia with DM HCP right away
-teratogenic drugs
Nitrates Isosorbide Vasodilates and improves Vasodilation/ Orthostatic -administer up to three times in 15 mins;
Nitroglycerin blood flow in MI hypotension if after 5 mins symptoms have not been
Flushing or pallor relieved at home, call 911 right away
Confusion -always assess BP before administration
Reflex tachycardia and lower head of bed if hypotension
Dry mouth occurs
-administer sublingually

4
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

-keep in a dark tightly closed bottle;

cannot be mixed with other drugs
Beta blockers -lol i.e. metroprolol, Block release of Bradycardia -contraindicated in clients with asthma,
bisoprolol cathecholamines thus Bronchospasm bradycardia or stroke, DM
decreasing HR and BP Hypotension -assess for resp distress and for signs of
Dizziness wheezing and dyspnea
-can mask symptoms of hypoglycemia i.e.
tachycardia and nervousness; monitor BG

Calcium channel -dipine i.e. amlodipine, Promote vasodilation of Bradycardia -better choice for clients with asthma
blockers felodipine coronary and peripheral Reflex tachycardia as a result -monitor kidney function tests
Verapamil vessels of hypotension -DO NOT ADMINISTER WITH
Diltiazem Changes in liver and kidney GRAPEFRUIT JUICE as it can lead to
function severe hypotension
Miscellaneous Nesiritide Vasodilates arteries and Hypotension Administer by continuous infusion via IV
vasodilator veins in CHF Confusion pump
Dysrhythmias Monitor BP, cardiac rhythm, urine output
and body weight
Adrenergic Agonists Dopamine Positive inotropes increases Tachycardia -Epinephrine used for cardiac stimulation
Epinephrine BP and cardiac output in cardiac arrest (asystole)
HMG-CoA -statin i.e. atorvastatin, Lowers serum cholesterol Elevated liver enzyme -Lovastatin is highly protein-bound and
Reductase Inhibitors rosuvastatin levels should not be administered with
(statins) Muscle cramps (myopathy) anticoagulants and should be administered
Nausea, abd pain or cramps with caution in clients taking
Dizziness, headache immunosuppressive medications
Blurred vision (Cataract -instruct client to receive annual eye exam
formation) because meds can cause cataract
formation
-Hepatotoxic
-HCP should be notified when client
experiences muscle aches (monitor CK
and myoglobin levels)
Antidysrhythmics Amiodarone Pulmonary fibrosis Used to treat anything ventricular (V tach
Photosensitivity or PVCs)
Peripheral neuropathy
Tremor

5
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

Corneal deposits
Bluish skin discoloration
Poor coordination

DIURETICS
*All diuretics are contraindicated in clients taking lithium! Hyponatremia can induce lithium toxicity
*ALL diuretics can induce Digoxin toxicity except potassium-sparing diuretics i.e. spironolactone!
Thiazide diuretics -thiazide i.e. Increase sodium and water Hypokalemia, hyponatremia -not effective for IMMEDIATE diuresis
Chlorothiazide, excretion by inhibiting Hypovolemia -used with caution in the client taking
cholorthalidone, sodium reabsorption in Hypotension lithium because lithium toxicity can occur
hydrochlorothiazide, kidneys Photosensitivity (due to lack of sodium)
indapamide, metolazone *Hyperglycemia -instruct client to take meds in morning to
prevent nocturia and sleep interruption
-change positions slowly to prevent
orthostatic hypotension
-instruct client with DM to check BG
periodically
Loop diuretics -ide i.e. Inhibit sodium and chloride Hypokalemia, hyponatremia -more rapid than thiazide diuretics
(Potassium-wasting Furosemide, reabsorption from the loop of Thrombocytopenia -causes hypo of all electrolytes; monitor
diuretics) Torsemide, ethacrynic Henle and the distal tubule Hyperuricemia electrolytes, Mg, BUN, Cr, and uric acid
acid, bumetanide Dehydration levels
Orthostatic hypotension -monitor digoxin (due to hypokalemia) or
Ototoxicity and deafness lithium (hyponatremia) toxicity
-administer furosemide IV slowly to
prevent ototoxicity
Potassium-sparing Spironolactone, Promotes sodium and water Hyperkalemia -contraindicated in severe kidney or
diuretics triamterene, amiloride excretion AND potassium Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea hepatic disease and severe hyperkalemia
HCl, eplerenone retention Rash -monitor for HYPERKALEMIA!!
Dizziness, weakness -avoid salt substitutes because they
contain potassium

6
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

Osmotic diuretics Mannitol Increases osmotic pressure of Fluid and electrolyte -can be used to decrease ICP
the GFR, inhibiting imbalances
reabsorption of water and Pulmonary edema
electrolytes Tachycardia from the rapid
-used with chemo to induce fluid loss
diuresis Hyponatremia and
dehydration

DIABETIC DRUGS
**Watch for hypoglycemia during peaks!
INSULIN

NPH Basal long acting Onset: 6 h Cloudy suspension; precipitates and therefore cannot be
Peak: 8-10 h given IV (can overdose client)
Duration: 12 h “N for not so fast and not in the bag”
-never given at bedtime (can cause hypoglycemia while
asleep)
-given twice daily
Glargine (lantus), Detemir Basal long acting No essential peak -little to no risk for hypoglycemia; only safe insulin for
Duration: 12-24 h bedtime
Regular i.e. humulin R, Postprandial short acting Onset: 1 h -best for IV use (i.e. DKA)
novolin R Peak: 2 h -“R for rapid and run insulin”
Duration: 4 h
Lispro (Humalog), Aspart, Postprandial short acting Onset: 15 mins -give as client begins to eat, with meals not before meals
Glulisine Peak: 30 mins (not AC)
Duration: 3 h -ensure client eats within 15 minutes of administration
(LAG)

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 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

ORAL HYPOGLYCEMIC AGENTS

Biguanides Metformin Supresses hepatic Diarrhea -DO NOT TAKE same day of iodine contrast
production of glucose and Lactic acidosis procedures i.e. cardiac catheterization (can induce
increases insulin sensitivity GI disturbances lactic acidosis)
Metallic taste in mouth Discontinue 24-48 hours prior to test
Hypoglycemia
Sulfonylureas Chlorpropamide Stimulate the beta cells to Hypersensitivity -Cross reaction with sulfa antibiotics (sulfonamides);
produce more insulin reaction if client has allergic reaction to either one,
Gli(___)ide i.e. glimepiride, Weight gain DISCONTINUE
glipizide, glyburide GI disturbances
Hypoglycemia
Tol(___)ide i.e. tolazamide,
tolbutamide
Meglitinides -linide i.e. nateglinide, Stimulate beta cells to Hypoglycemia Very fast onset of action allows client to take
repaglinide produce more insulin GI disturbances medication with meals and skip medication when
-short duration of action; a meal is skipped
less chance of blood
glucose-lowering effects
Gliptins (DPP-4 -gliptins i.e. sitagliptin, Block the action of DPP-4, Flulike symptoms
inhibitors) saxagliptin which destroys the (runny nose, headache,
hormone incretin (incretin nausea, stomach pain)
help body produce more Rash
insulin when needed; GI problems
inhibition causes more
insulin to be produced)
Thiazolidinediones -glitazone i.e. ciglitazone, Insulin-sensitizing agents Hepatotoxicity -Monitor for elevated ALTs and ASTs
darglitazone, englitazone that lower blood glucose by Increased bone
decreasing hepatic glucose fractures
production and improving Increased LDLs
target cell response to
insulin

8
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

PSYCH DRUGS
*All psych drugs have indications for WEIGHT GAIN and HYPOTENSION
*Always taper medications down and never stop dosing abruptly
Serotonin Reuptake
Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine
Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
-lopram i.e. Antidepressants that work Contraindications: St. John’s -Monitor client for increased risk
citalopram through inhibition of Wort, MAOIs of suicidality esp. during
serotonin reuptake improved mood and increased
Sertraline Side effects: energy levels, and changes in
Fluoxetine Anticholinergic- dry mouth doses
Fluvoxamine Blurred vision -Instruct to change positions
Constipation slowly to avoid ortho hypotension
Venlafaxine Drowsiness
Duloxetine *Insomnia -Be aware of potential for
Serotonin Syndrome
Toxic effects: Signs and symptoms include:
Agranulocytosis Mental status changes (Anxiety,
Priapism agitation, restlessness) and
autonomic/neuromuscular
hyperactivity (fever, muscle
rigidity, shivering, diaphoresis,
tachycardia, HTN, tremors)
 Risk greatly elevated with
concurrent use of MAOIs

-Can cause insomnia; do not

Monoamine Oxidase
Inhibitors (MAOIs)
administer at bedtime
PITS Inhibits metabolism of RISK OF: -given at the last resort when no
Phenelzine amines, NE, and serotonin With SSRIs: Serotonin other antidepressant therapies are
Isocarboxacid thus improving mood and Syndrome effective
Tranylcypramine preventing depression With TCAs: hypertensive crisis -TYRAMINE- CONTAINING
Selegiline FOODS may cause hypertensive
Antidote for hypertensive crisis: crisis; avoid BAR (bananas,
phentolamine IV avocadoes and raisins or dried
fruit), organ meats and processed
meats, and aged cheeses

9
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs
Tricyclic Antidepressants
(TCAs)
Mood stabilizers
Benzodiazepines
Barbiturates
-triptyline i.e. Antidepressants which block Side effects: -Concurrent use with MAOIs can
amitriptyline, NE and serotonin reuptake Anticholinergic lead to hypertensive crisis
nortriptyline Blurred vision -Cardiac toxicity can occur and
Constipation all clients should receive an ECG
-pramine i.e. Drowsiness before treatment and after
desipramine, *Sedation
imipramine Urinary retention -antidote for TCA overdose:
physostigmine
Lithium Stabilizes mood Lithium is a competitive binder -Avoid anything that has any
Quetiapine with sodium- hyponatremia can diuretic effects i.e. diuretics,
Olanzapine cause toxicity coffee, tea, cola
Risperidone -therapeutic level is 0.6-1.2; -dehydration can cause lithium
Carbamazepine toxic is >2 toxicity
-Lithium is teratogenic -Instruct client to maintain a fluid
intake of six to eight glasses of
Side effects: water
Peeing
Pooping
Paresthesis
Weight gain
Drowsiness
Anticholinergic
-zepam i.e. Antianxiety; minor Side effects: -contraindicated in glaucoma and
clonazepam, tranquilizer Anticholinergic should be used cautiously in
diazepam, oxazepam Blurred vision children and older adults
Constipation -used for induction of anesthesia,
-lam i.e. alprazolam, Drowsiness**- can lead to muscle relaxant, alcohol
triazolam somnolence withdrawal syndrome, tranquilizer
Chlordiazepoxide -antidote for benzo overdose:
flumazenil
-can only be given for 2-4 weeks,
not a long term drug
-barbital i.e. Used for short-term Side effects: -maintain safety by supervising
anobarbital sodium treatment of insomnia for Dizziness ambulation and using side rails at
Choral hydrate sedation to relieve anxiety, Confusion night
Eszopiclone tension and apprehension Agranulocytosis
10
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

Zolpidem -avoid driving or operating

Zaleplon hazardous equipment if
drowsiness, dizziness or
unsteadiness occurs
Antipsychotics Typical: (older-think Reduces psychotic symptoms Side effects: -Administer with food or milk to
EPS as main side Anticholinergic decrease gastric irritation
effect) Typical antipsychotics are Blurred Vision -protect liquid concentration from
Haloperidol better indicated for positive Constipation light
Loxapine symptoms (t like +) i.e. Drowsiness -inform that some meds may
Chlorpromazine delusions, hallucinations, *EPS- Typical i.e. cause a harmless change in urine
illusions parkinsonism, dystonia, rigidity, color to pinkish to red-brown
Atypical: tremors
Olanzapine Atypical better for negative Haldol- Torsades de pointes **Neuroleptic Malignant
Quetiapine symptoms i.e. anhedonia, (can be fatal as it can lead to V. Syndrome (Haldol is most
Risperidone catatonia fib or pulseless V. tach) commonly tested)- characterized
**Aripriprazole (not by altered mental status (lethargy,
a proton pump decreased LOC), muscle rigidity,
inhibitor) hyperthermia (>40 C),
tachycardia, HTN, tachypnea

Treated by: supportive measures

i.e. control temp (dantrolene),
control agitation by
benzodiazepines, and add
dopamine agonist
(bromocriptine)  antipsychotic
decrease dopamine levels

11
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

RESPIRATORY MEDICATIONS
*For any respiratory medication, think sympathetic effects!

Bronchodilators (beta 2 -ol i.e. albuterol, Relax smooth muscle of Side effects: -assess vitals and lung sounds
agonists) formoterol, bronchi and dilate airways; Palpitations and tachycardia -given as rescue drug along with
salmeterol promotes sympathetic Hypertension ipratropium (only drugs used for
Terbutaline (also a response Dysrhythmias acute asthma exacerbations)
tocolytic drug) Restlessness, anxiety, tremors
Hyperglycemia
Methylxanthines -phylline i.e. Stimulate CNS and respiration, Dysrhythmias -if administered with beta 2
Theophylline dilate coronary and pulmonary Seizures* agonist, cardiac dysrhythmias
Aminophylline vessels, cause diuresis and Tachycardia may result
relax smooth muscle Insomnia -administer with or after meals to
-muscle spasm relaxer Restlessness decrease GI irritation
GI effects -therapeutic level is 10-20; toxic
level is >20
Signs of toxicity: -IV infusions should be
Anorexia administered slowly and via an
Nausea, vomiting infusion pump
Insomnia, restlessness -Usually given to relax airways
Cardiac toxicity during bronchospasm before
bronchodilators can be effective
-cimetidine and ciprofloxacin can
dramatically increase serum
theophylline levels and should not
be used in these clients
Anticholinergics -tropium i.e. Results in bronchodilation due drying of secretions* -clients with peanut allergies
tiotropium, to blocking of muscarinic Dry mouth should not take ipratropium
ipratroprium receptors in the bronchioles Blurred vision because it contains soya lecithin,
(anti-acetylcholine) Urinary retention which is in the same plant family
antiparasympathetic Hypertension as peanuts
therefore sympathetic effects Constipation -contraindicated in clients with
glaucoma
Glucocorticoids -sone i.e. Long term treatment of Immunosuppression -Monitor for signs of infection
beclomethasone, inflammation associated with and report to HCP i.e. fever, high
asthma WBCs

12
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

prednisone, -Not used for acute exacerbations

fluticasone -Rinse mouth after use to
prevent oral candidiasis or thrush
-ide i.e. ciclesonide, infection
flunisolide
Leukotriene modifiers -lukast i.e. Used in prophylaxis and Immunosuppression -Coadministration of inhaled
montelukast, treatment of chronic asthma Nausea, vomiting glucocorticoids increase the risk
zafirlukast (not used for acute Dyspepsia of upper respiratory infections
exacerbations) Generalized pain, myalgia -monitor liver function lab values
-inhibit bronchoconstriction i.e. ALT, AST
caused by specific antigens
and reduce edema and smooth
muscle constriction
Antihistamines Dimenhydrinate Prevents a histamine response; drying effect* -Can cause CNS depression if
Dipenhydramine used for common cold, Drowsiness, fatigue taken with alcohol, opioids,
rhinitis, nausea and vomiting Dizziness tranquilizers or barbiturates
-tadine i.e. Urinary retention -suck on hard candy or ice chips
loratadine, Constipation for dry mouth
olapatadine Dry mouth -contraindicated for glaucoma

Cetirizine
Nasal decongestants Pseudoephedrine Reduce fluid secretion Major sympathetic effects* -contraindicated in HTN, cardiac
(ephedrine looks Hypertension (due to disease, hyperthyroidism, or DM
similar to vasoconstriction) -should NOT be used for longer
epinephrine) Hyperglycemia than 48 hours due to tolerance and
Restlessness, insomnia, rebound nasal congestion
-zoline i.e. nervousness (vasodilation)
naphazoline,
tetrahydrozoline,
xylometazoline
Opioid antagonists Naloxone Reverse respiratory depression Nausea, vomiting -Avoid use for non-opioid
Naltrexone in opioid overdose Tremors, Sweating respiratory depression
Alvimopan Hypertension -Re-occurrence of respiratory
Tachycardia depression can occur if duration
of opiate effects exceed duration

13
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs
Tuberculosis Agents Isoniazid Treats active tb; treatment
Rifampin goes for 6-9 months for
Ethambutol otherwise healthy clients
Pyrazinamide (immunosuppressed clients
Rifabutin can go for as long as 9-12
Rifapentine months)
Isoniazid treatment can be
used for latent tb
Other commonly tested drugs
Folate antimetabolite, Methotrexate -treats malignancies,
antineoplastic, Rheumatoid Arthritis and
immunosuppressant drugs psoriasis
-CONTRAINDICATED in
pregnancy unless abortion is
warranted i.e. ectopic
pregnancy
Anticonvulsants Phenytoin Used to treat tonic-clonic
seizures
14
of antagonist- re-administer if
needed
Hepatotoxicity -after 2-3 weeks of treatment, risk
Ototoxicity of transmission is greatly reduced
Neurotoxicity (numbness and -when one med is discontinued
tingling) abruptly, resistance can occur
Dry mouth (MDR-TB)
Dizziness -decrease efficacy of oral
Red secretions (rifampin) contraceptives; other means of
birth control must be used
-Take pyridoxine (vit B6) to
prevent neuropathy
Bone marrow suppression -Clients should be instructed to
Immunosuppression get vaccinated with inactivated
Hepatotoxicity vaccines, avoid crowds and
Photosensitivity persons with known infections (as
though they are being treated with
chemo- antineoplastic drug)
-Avoid alcohol as it is
HEPATOTOXIC
Therapeutic range is 10-20 -Good oral hygiene can limit
mcg/mL symptoms of gingival hyperplasia
Anything >20 is toxic
Main side effect:
Gingival hyperplasia
Toxic effects:
Gait unsteadiness/Ataxia
Horizontal nystagmus
CNS effects
 *Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs
NSAIDs
Proton pump inhibitors
Aspirin
Corticosteroids
Anticholinergics
Ibuprofen Indicated for pain i.e. joint Tarry stools (due to GI bleeding) Contraindicated in CHF due to
Naproxen and inflammation Nephrotoxicity sodium retention and associated
Indomethacin Hypertension (sodium retention) HTN
Fluid overload -Contraindicated in clients taking
Lithium (again due to associated
sodium retention)
-Take with food to prevent GI
upset
-Bleeding risk associated when
taken with aspirin, anticoagulants
and other NSAIDs
-prazole i.e. Decreases acid production in Associated with increased risk of -may increase risk of C. diff
Omeprazole stomach pneumonia infection due to lack of acid
Pantoprazole C. diff diarrhea production in stomach leading to
Calcium malabsorption loss of gastric protection
(osteoporosis)
Antipyretic, anti- Tinnitus Contraindicated in administration
inflammatory, antiplatelet Hyperthermia to children due to risk of Reye’s
and prophylactic treatment in Reye’s syndrome in peds syndrome (except in Kawasaki
recurrent MI disease)
-sone i.e. Used for lack of Hyperglycemia -Do not discontinue abruptly
prednisone, corticosteroids in body (i.e. Immunosuppression -Increase dose of corticosteroid
bethametasone Addison’s), immune diseases Bone and muscle catabolism therapy in Addison’s disease
GI irritation during times of stress as a stress
response can cause a sudden
decrease in cortisol levels and can
trigger an Addisonian crisis
-Recommend diets high in
calcium, protein and low in fat
and simple carbs while on
treatment
-Cataracts are a side effect of
corticosteroids
Benztropine Used to treat tremors in Blurred vision -contraindicated in glaucoma as it
Parkinson’s disease Dry secretions can precipitate an acute glaucoma
Constipation episode
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*Contains main drugs questioned in UWorld and mentioned in MK; Antibiotics, CV drugs, Diuretics, Diabetic drugs, Mental health drugs, and
Respiratory drugs (in that order) plus other main drugs. i.e. proton pump inhibitors, dilantin, NSAIDs

Urinary retention (contraindicated

in BPH)

EXTRA TIPS:

 Do not administer anything sedative i.e. opioids, benzodiazepines, barbiturates to clients with increased ICP as it can mask somnolence
and decreasing LOC
 Always monitor blood pressure in vasodilating medications prior to administration i.e. ACE inhibitors, nitrates
 Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome and Malignant Hyperthermia are similar in terms of symptoms! i.e. muscle rigidity, hyperthermia,
mental status changes, tachycardia, tachypnea—difference lies in causes

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Malignant Hyperthermia

 Causes: Antipsychotics and low dose phenothiazines used  Causes: inhaled anesthetics ie. Halothane, muscle relaxant i.e.
as antiemetics i.e. Haldol, chlorpromazine succinylcholine
 Treated by: dantrolene for hyperthermia, benzodiazepines for  Treated by: dantrolene for hyperthermia, benzodiazepines for
anxiety and agitation, and dopamine agonist bromocriptine anxiety and agitation, NO bromocriptine

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