Drug Name

Generic name: Amlodipine besylate Brand name: Norvasc Class: Antianginal, antihypertensive, calcium channel blocker

Mechanism of Action
Amlodipine is a calcium ion influx inhibitor (calcium entry blocker or calcium ion antagonist).

Dosage

Indication
Angina pectoris due to coronary artery spasm Chronic stable angina Essential HTN, alone or in combination with other antihypertensive s

Contraindication
Contraindicated with allergy to amlodipine, impaired hepatic or renal function, sick sinus syndrome, heart block (second or third degree), lactation. Use cautiously with heart failure and pregnancy

Side effects/ Adverse effects

CNS: dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, asthenia, fatigue, lethargy CV: peripheral edema, arrhythmias Dermatologic: rash, flushing GI: nausea, abdominal discomfort
*asthenia - lack or loss of strength and energy; weakness *arrhythmias/ dysrhytmia abnormal heart rhythms

Nursing Responsibilities
Monitor patient carefully (BP, cardiac rhythm, output). Monitor BP very carefully. Monitor cardiac rhythm regularly. Administer drug without regard to meals.

Adults: Initially 5mg PO daily; dosage may increase over 10-14 days to a maximum dose of 10 mg PO daily.

Drug Name
Generic name: Ciprofloxacin Brand name: Ciprobay Class: Antibacterial, fluoroquinolone

Mechanism of Action
It is bactericidal and it interferes with DNA replication in susceptible bacteria preventing cell reproduction

Dosage

Indication
For treatment of infections caused by susceptible gram- negative bacteria. Treatment of uncomplicated UTIs. Otic: treatment of acute otitis media. Treatment of nosocomial pneumonia. Oral: typhoid fever Oral: STDs Acute sinusitis.

Contraindication
Contraindicated with allergy to ciprofloxacin.

Side effects/ Adverse effects

Diarrhea, dizziness, nausea, upset stomach, headache, loss of appetite and vomiting.

Nursing Responsibilities
Arrange for C & S test. If antacid is needed, take it two hours after or before dose. Take Proquin XR with the main meal of the day. Ensure that the patient is well hydrated.

The dosage range is 250-750 mg twice daily. 250 mg twice daily.

Drug Name
Generic name: Simvastatin Brand name: Zocor Class: Antihyperlipidemi c, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor

Mechanism of Action
Inhibits HMG-Co, resulting in a decrease serum cholesterol, serum LDLs and either an increase or no change in serum HDLs.

Dosage
Tablets: 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg. Oral disintegrating tablets: 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg.

Indication
Treatment of elevated LDL with primary hyper To reduce risk of coronary artery disease, mortality and CV events such as CVA, MI, TIA.

Contraindication
Contraindicated with allergy to simvastatin, fungal byproducts.

Side effects/ Adverse effects

CNS: headache, asthenia, sleep disturbances GI: Flatulence, diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramps, constipation, nausea, dyspepsia, heartburn, liver failure. Respiratory: sinusitis, pharyngitis

Nursing Responsibilities
May be taken with or without food. Do not drink grapefruit juice while using this drug. Give in the evening. Teach patients about the side effects of the drug.

Drug Name
Generic name: Metoprolol Brand name: Lopressor Class: Antihypertensive, Beta-selective adrenergic blocker

Mechanism of Action
Completely blocks beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, decreasing excitability of the heart, cardiac output, and release of rennin. This also decreases BP.

Dosage
50 mg twice daily

Indication
Hypertension Long term treatment of angina pectoris

Contraindication
Contraindicated with sinus bradycardia (HR 45 bpm), second or third degree heart block, HF and cardiogenic shock.

Side effects/ Adverse effects

Allergic: pharyngitis, sore throat, fever CNS: dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus, fatigue CV: heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, pulmonary edema, hypotension GI: flatulence, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting

Nursing Responsibilities
Give with food to facilitate absorption. Ensure the patient to swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, chew or cut. Teach patient the side effects of the drug.