Drug Study

Brand Name & Indication Mechanism of Action
Generic Name
Ranitidine Potent anti-ulcer drug that
Hydrochloride Short-term treatment of competitively and reversibly
(Zantac) active duodenal ulcer. inhibits histamine action at H2-
receptor sites on parietal cells, thus
blocking gastric acid secretion.
Indirectly reduces pepsin secretion
but appears to have minimal effect
on fasting and postprandial serum
gastrin concentrations or secretion
of gastric intrinsic factor or mucus.
Adverse Reaction Nursing Consideration
Headache Assessment & Drug Effects
Malaise Potential toxicity results from decreased clearance and
Dizziness therefore prolonged action; greatest in the older adult
Bradycardia patients or those with hepatic or renal dysfunction.
Constipation Be alert for early signs of hepatotoxicity
Nausea
Patient & Family Education
Abdominal pain
diarrhea
Note: Long duration of action provides ulcer pain relief that
Rash
is maintained through the night as well as the day.
Be aware that even if symptomatic relief is provided by
ranitidine, this should not be interpreted as absence of
gastric malignancy. Follow-up examinations will be
scheduled after therapy is discontinued.
Adhere to scheduled periodic laboratory checkups during
ranitidine treatment.

Albuterol To relieve bronchospasm Synthetic sympathomimetic amine Hypersensitivity Assessment & Drug Effects
(Salbutamol) associated with acute or and moderately selective beta2- reaction. Monitor therapeutic effectiveness which is indicated by
chronic asthma, adrenergic agonist with Anxiety significant subjective improvement in pulmonary function
bronchitis, or other comparatively long action. Acts Weakness within 6090 min after drug administration.
reversible obstructive more prominently on Headache Monitor for: S&S of fine tremor in fingers, which may
airway diseases. Also beta2 receptors (particularly Palpitation interfere with precision handwork; CNS stimulation,
used to prevent exercise- smooth muscles of bronchi, uterus, Bradycardia particularly in children 26 y, (hyperactivity, excitement,
induced bronchospasm. and vascular supply to skeletal nervousness, insomnia), tachycardia, GI symptoms. Report
Blurred Vision
muscles) than on beta1 (heart)
 receptors. Inhibits histamine Nausea promptly to physician.
release by mast cells. Produces Vomiting
bronchodilation, regardless of Patient & Family Education
administration route, by relaxing
smooth muscles of bronchial tree. Review directions for correct use of medication and inhaler
(see ADMINISTRATION).
Avoid contact of inhalation drug with eyes.
Do not increase number or frequency of inhalations without
advice of physician.
Notify physician if albuterol fails to provide relief because
this can signify worsening of pulmonary function and a
reevaluation of condition/therapy may be indicated.
Note: Albuterol can cause dizziness or vertigo; take
necessary precautions.
Cefuroxime Infections caused by This inhibits third and final stage Diarrhea Assessment & Drug Effects
(Ceftin) susceptible organisms in of bacterial cell wall synthesis, Nausea Determine history of hypersensitivity reactions to
the lower respiratory thus killing the bacterium. Partial Rash cephalosporins, penicillins, and history of allergies,
tract, urinary tract, skin, cross-allergenicity between other Pruritus particularly to drugs, before therapy is initiated..
and skin structures; also beta-lactam antibiotics and Urticaria Inspect IM and IV injection sites frequently for signs of
used for treatment of cephalosporins has been reported. phlebitis.
meningitis, gonorrhea, Report onset of loose stools or diarrhea.
and otitis media and for
perioperative prophylaxis Patient & Family Education
.
Report loose stools or diarrhea promptly.
Report any signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity
Do not breast feed while taking this drug.
Mefenamic Acid Short-term relief of mild Anthranilic acid derivative. Like Drowsiness Assessment & Drug Effects
(Ponstan) to moderate pain ibuprofen inhibits prostaglandin Headache Assess patients who develop severe diarrhea and vomiting
including primary synthesis and affects platelet Abdominal for dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
dysmenorrhea. function. No evidence that it is Lab tests: With long-term therapy (not recommended)
 superior to aspirin. Cramps obtain periodic complete blood counts, Hct and Hgb, and
Nausea kidney function tests.
Constipation
Vomiting Patient & Family Education
Rash
Discontinue drug promptly if diarrhea, dark stools,
hematemesis, ecchymoses, epistaxis, or rash occur and do
not use again. Contact physician.
Do not drive or engage in potentially hazardous activities
until response to drug is known. It may cause dizziness and
drowsiness.
Do not breast feed while taking this drug without consulting
physician.

Diclofenac Analgesic and antipyretic Although its exact mechanism of Dizziness Assessment & Drug Effects
(Voltaren) effects in symptomatic action has not been fully Headache Monitor BP for hypertension and blood sugar for
treatment elucidated, it appears to be a Rash hyperglycemia.
potent inhibitor of Dyspepsia Monitor diabetics closely for loss of diabetic control.
cyclooxygenase, thereby Vomiting Monitor weight and report gains greater than 1 kg (2 lb)/24
decreasing the synthesis of Abdominal pain h.
prostaglandins. Monitor for signs and symptoms of GI irritation and
Constipation
ulceration.
Diarrhea

Abdominal
Distention Oral Form

Do not lie down for 1530 min after taking medicine to

decrease esophageal irritation.
Discontinue use with onset of ringing or buzzing in the ears,
impaired hearing, dizziness, GI discomfort, or bleeding and
notify physician.
 Do not take aspirin or other OTC analgesics without
permission of the physician.
Avoid alcohol or other CNS depressants.
Do not drive or engage in other potentially hazardous
activities until reaction to drug is known.
Do not breast feed while taking this drug.