Week 2 Assignment 1 Pharm

Week 2 Assignment 1 Pharm Many patients ask for nonprescription medications to use for various health problems, such as insomnia, depression, pain, memory, and anxiety. Select one patient complaint (for example, insomnia) and review the major herbs that have been recommended for treatment. Go to the South University Online Library and locate at least one peer-reviewed research article designed to study the effects of one of these substances. Describe the study and results and explain how this would influence your action as an APN. Insomnia, the most common adult sleep disorder, is a problem of insufficient or nonrestorative sleep even when there is adequate opportunity to sleep (Bent, Padula, Moore, Patterson, & Mehling, 2006). Insomnia can be a primary disorder either acute or chronic condition, such as difficulty in falling asleep, difficulty maintaining sleep, waking too early, or non-refreshing sleep. As a knowledgeable competent practitioner, I play an essential role, counseling patients with insomnia about good sleep habits and educating people about how to safely use and evaluate their medications. A through patient history and physical assessment will be conducted, with evaluation of current prescribed and nonprescription medications. Patient education regarding sleep hygiene habits such as limiting daytime naps, avoiding caffeine, encouraging exercise and establishing bedtime routine. Valerian is recognized for its sedative and soothing medicinal properties and is frequently used to ease symptoms of insomnia. Valerian is derived from the root of the plant species valerian, with three chemical actions; one has a direct sedating effect, one has a central nervous system sedating effect, and one acts to relax muscles in the gastrointestinal system (Turkoski, 2006). It is possible that the pharmacologic effect of valerian is mediated through modulation ofGABAergic receptor function (Turkoski, 2006). It is not regulated by the FDA, and different preparations may vary as to content and should be used cautiously. Valerian should not be used in children younger than 12, individuals with a history of seizures, and pregnant and lactating patients (Antoniades, Jones, Hassed, & Piterman, 2012). Adverse reactions include drowsiness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, morning drowsiness or sedation, or rare allergic reaction. Patient should be encouraged to talk with healthcare provider about possible interactions with other prescription or nonprescription products they may be taking. Valerian should be taken with full glass of water 30-60 minutes before bedtime on an intermittent schedule and avoid alcohol or other medication that slows your actions or reactions (Bent, et al. 2006). Contact healthcare provider if you experience any life-threatening reaction (wheezing, chest tightness, fever, itching, unusual cough, blue skin color, swelling of lips, tongue, or throat), changes in thinking clearly or logically, severe headache, and unusual and persistent nausea or vomiting or diarrhea. Natural melatonin regulates the normal sleep/wake cycle and aids in regulating the secretion of growth hormone and gonadotropic hormones. Adults between 20 and 70 years of age experience a decline in daily melatonin output (Antoniades, et al. 2012). As a supplement, melatonin has both phase-shifting and sleep-promoting properties. Melatonin has been used effectively to reduce circadian rhythm disturbance. Excessive dosages may cause morning drowsiness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, or sedation. Patients should consult healthcare provider before taking if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, are a transplant recipient, have an autoimmune condition, endometrial cancer, stroke, or thromboembolic disease (Antoniades, et al. 2012). Take 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Contact healthcare provider if you experience any lifethreatening reaction, such as wheezing, chest tightness, fever, itching, unusual cough, and swelling of lips, tongue, or throat.ReferenceAntoniades, J., Jones, K., Hassed, C., & Piterman, L. (2012). Sleep naturally: A review of the efficacy of herbal remedies for managing insomnia. Alternative & Complementary Therapies, 18(3), 136-140. Retrieved from