Transcript CNS Stim

Chapter 29
Central Nervous System (CNS)
Stimulants REVIEW
2
L. Lehmkuhl, RN 2009
Central Nervous System
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Includes the brain and spinal cord
Center of coordination and control
Many drugs stimulate the CNS, but few
are used therapeutically
CNS Stimulants
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CNS Stimulates include
analeptics and
anorexiants
Analeptics stimulate the
respiratory center of the
CNS and are used to
treat drug induced
respiratory depression
and respiratory
depression in pts with
COPD
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Anorexiants (aka Anorectics)
contain amphetamines and
therefore may be used in tx
of:
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obesity depresses the
appetite ST usage w/calorie
restriction and exercise
narcolepsy: day sleeping
ADHD: restless, distracted,
learning d/o, impulsivity
Can cause insomnia and HA
secondary to CNS
stimulation (eg Didrex).
Analeptics
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Act to stimulate the
CNS
Examples—doxapram
(Dopram), caffeine,
modafinil
Uses – respiratory
depression (COPD),
relieve fatigue (caffeine)
Side effects are
hyperactivity,
overstimulation
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Patient assessment
includes B/P, P and R
Depth and character of
respirations are noted.
Not used as often to
stimulate respirations
after surgery as
mechanical ventilation
more reliable
Amphetamines/Anorectics
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Act to stimulate the
CNS
Examples—
adderal,
amphetamine,
benzohetamine
methamphetamine
Uses-narcolepsy
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Adverse Reactions—
elevated blood
pressure, nervousness,
HA, wakefulness,
insomnia, increased or
decreased pulse rate
Uses of
Amphetamines/Anorectics
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Obesity short term
treatment
Narcolepsy
Attentiondeficit/hyperactivity
disorder (ADHD)
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has calming effect
improves concentration
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Act on the appetite
center in the
hypothalamus
Examples—
phendimetrazine,
phentermine
Have high abuse
potential
Use—obesity
ADHD/Non-Anorectics
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ADHD are sensitive to
their environments and
responsive to minimal
stimuli or distraction
Ritalin, Cylert
Both have amphetamine
derivatives
Adderal (anorectic)
Produce a paradoxal
reaction
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Adverse Effects- GI
distress, insomnia, HA,
depression, growth
suppression
Obtain info about
behavior @ home and
in other settings.
Ritalin may increase sz
in epilecptics, may
interact with
anticholinergics,
anticonvulsants and
tricyclic
antidepressants.
Atomoxetine HCI (Strattera)
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Not a CNS stimulate
Increases availability of noreprinephrine
Improves thought processes
Increases attention span
SE’s vary in children taking (N/V,abd
pain, fatigue, dyspepsia)
Administration of CNS
Stimulants
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Do not give within
14 days of MAO
Inhibitor may cause
hypertensive crisis
and cerebral
hemorrhage
Administer daily
mid-morning for SR
products
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Do not administer in
evening may cause
insomnia
Withdraw drug
gradually
May be increased
after several weeks
when larger doses
are needed (drug
tolerance)
Nursing Alert: Amphetamines
and Anorexiants
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Amphetamines and anorexiants have
abuse potential and should not be used
long-term
Do not use with tricyclic antidepressants
due to decrease in effectiveness of CNS
stimulant
Adverse Reactions of Central
Nervous System Stimulates
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Overstimulation of the CNS
Headache, dizziness
Apprehension
Disorientation and hyperactivity
Nausea, vomiting
Cough, dyspnea
Urinary retention
Variations in heart rate (ie, tachycardia)
Administration in children
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Keep a record of behavior.
Communicate closely with teacher to
monitor childs reponse in school
Provide positive reinforcemnet with
appropriate behavior
Gerontologic Alert
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Older adults more sensitive
May exhibit excessive anxiety,
nervousness, insomnia, and confusion
Cardiovascular problems may worsen
Careful monitoring is important
Alzheimer
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Progressive,
degenerative, terminal
disease of brain tissue
Deficit in
neurotransmitters,
acytecholine (most
dramatically reduced
75%), norepinephrine,
dopamine and
seratonin..
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Primarily effects
memory
Exact cause
unknown