DRUG CLASSIFICATION INDICATION MECHANISM OF ACTION ADVERSE REACTION DRUG INTERACTION RATE/FREQUENCY/ DOSAGE NURSING CONSIDERATION

Generic name: Calcium channel Decrease BP in A calcium channel blocker that CNS: headache, dizziness, anxiety, Antihypertensives, nitrates: Side drip of 90cc D5LR 3NaCl  Monitor for CHF;
nicardipine blocker hypertension inhibits calcium ion influx across depression, confusion, increase hypotension + I amp nicardipine @ 50 weight gain, rates,
hydrochloride cardiac and smooth muscle cells paresthesia, somnolence cc/hr parenteral jugular venous
but is more selective to vascular B-andrenergic blockers: distension, dyspnea
smooth muscle than cardiac increase bradycardia, CHF
muscle. Also dilates coronary CV: edema, bradycardia,  Monitor BP and pulse
arteries and arterioles. hypotension, palpitations, NSAID’s: decrease
pulmonary edema, chest pain, antihypertensive effects  Assess surgical pain
tachycardia, increased angina. intensity, location,
Grape fruit juices: increase duration, alleviating
hypotensive effects factors
GI: nausea, vomiting, gastric
upset, constipation, hepatitis, Alcohol: increase hypotension  Monitor potassium,
abdominal cramps, liver function test,
renal studies
periodically
GU: nocturia, polyuria
INTEG: rash  Assess fluid volume
MISC: blurred vision, flushing, status{I & O ratio}&
sweating, shortness of breath records weight

Brand name:
Cardene, Cardene
I.V, Cardene SR