Pharmacology for Professional Nursing (NUR2474) - Test #1 - Review

1. Lithium levels, use, side effects o Lithium is a MOOD STABILIZER o Levels:  0.4 to 1 mEq/L. o Action:  Prevents/decreases incidence of acute manic episodes - May inhibit MOA = Increase activity of brain o Use:  Treat Bipolar Disorder o Side Effects:  Nausea, , Abdominal bloating, Anorexia, Fatigue, and Memory impairment, Polyuria (frequently urinating), Tremor, Hypothyroidism o Teratogenic  Def: Can disturb the development of the embryo/fetus and produce malformation o 1-3 weeks for full effect 2. Benzodiazepines uses, actions, antidote, side effects o Suffix: -PAM, -LAM o Fast Acting o Short term use o Can cause dependency o Uses:  Anxiety, Insomnia, and Seizure disorders, Muscle spasms, and Withdrawal from alcohol o Actions:  Binds to GABA receptors to enhance the action of GABA - GABA is a neurotransmitter that slows/calms the speed of brain activity o Antidote:  Flumazenil - Administered IV