Basic Pharmacology

Cardiovascular drugs include antihypertensives (lisinopril), beta blockers (metoprolol), diuretics (furosemide), and statins (atorvastatin).

Endocrine drugs include insulin and metformin for diabetes and levothyroxine for hypothyroidism.

Respiratory bronchodilators such as albuterol open the airways to ease breathing.

Anticoagulants such as warfarin reduce clotting and require monitoring for bleeding.

Analgesics relieve pain and antipyretics reduce fever (for example acetaminophen).

Antibiotics treat bacterial infection and should be given at evenly spaced times and completed fully.

Proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole) reduce stomach acid for reflux and ulcers.

The therapeutic effect is the intended benefit; a side effect is an unintended effect such as drowsiness or constipation.

Monitor residents for side effects and report concerning ones to the nurse.

An allergic reaction is different from a side effect and can be life threatening, requiring immediate action.

A contraindication is a condition that makes a drug unsafe, such as a known allergy; hold the dose and notify the nurse.

Watch for drug and food interactions, especially with warfarin and vitamin K foods or new medications.

Controlled substances (such as opioids) have abuse potential and require locked storage, accurate counts, and careful documentation.

Forms include tablets, capsules, liquids, suppositories, patches, inhalers, and sublingual tablets.

Extended-release and enteric-coated forms are swallowed whole and generally must not be crushed.

Suspensions must be shaken well before pouring to give an accurate dose.