Transcript CNS Stim
Chapter 29
Central Nervous System (CNS)
Stimulants REVIEW
2
L. Lehmkuhl, RN 2009
Central Nervous System
Includes the brain and spinal cord
Center of coordination and control
Many drugs stimulate the CNS, but few
are used therapeutically
CNS Stimulants
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:
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
Act to stimulate the
CNS
Examples—doxapram
(Dopram), caffeine,
modafinil
Uses – respiratory
depression (COPD),
relieve fatigue (caffeine)
Side effects are
hyperactivity,
overstimulation
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
Act to stimulate the
CNS
Examples—
adderal,
amphetamine,
benzohetamine
methamphetamine
Uses-narcolepsy
Adverse Reactions—
elevated blood
pressure, nervousness,
HA, wakefulness,
insomnia, increased or
decreased pulse rate
Uses of
Amphetamines/Anorectics
Obesity short term
treatment
Narcolepsy
Attentiondeficit/hyperactivity
disorder (ADHD)
has calming effect
improves concentration
Act on the appetite
center in the
hypothalamus
Examples—
phendimetrazine,
phentermine
Have high abuse
potential
Use—obesity
ADHD/Non-Anorectics
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
1
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)
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
Do not give within
14 days of MAO
Inhibitor may cause
hypertensive crisis
and cerebral
hemorrhage
Administer daily
mid-morning for SR
products
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
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
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
Keep a record of behavior.
Communicate closely with teacher to
monitor childs reponse in school
Provide positive reinforcemnet with
appropriate behavior
Gerontologic Alert
Older adults more sensitive
May exhibit excessive anxiety,
nervousness, insomnia, and confusion
Cardiovascular problems may worsen
Careful monitoring is important
Alzheimer
Progressive,
degenerative, terminal
disease of brain tissue
Deficit in
neurotransmitters,
acytecholine (most
dramatically reduced
75%), norepinephrine,
dopamine and
seratonin..
Primarily effects
memory
Exact cause
unknown