Name of Drug Mode of Action
Aminophylline Bronchodilator
Relaxes bronchial smooth
muscles causing
bronchodilation, and increased
vital capacity which has been
impaired by bronchospasm and
air trapping
Amniodarone Cardiovascular drug
Blocks Na channels at rapid
pacing frequencies, prolongning
myocardial cell action, potential
and refractory period. Also
causes non-competitive alpha
and beta adrenergic blockade.
Decreases sinus rate. Increase
PR and QT intervals with
changed T wave contour. And
reduces peripheral vascular
resistance.
Atropine Sulfate Anticholinergic
Decreases action of the
parasympathetic nervous
system increasing
conduction velocity
(dromotropy) and heart rate
(chronotropy), enhances
Nursing Responsibilities
• Maintain adequate hydration
• Monitor result of serum
theophylline levels carefully
• Monitor for clinical signs of
adverse effects, particularly if
serum theophylline levels are
not available
• Ensure that diazepam is
readily available to treat
seizures.
• MonitorECG continuously
during IV therapy or initiation
of oral therapy
• Monitor HR and rhythm
throughout therapy
• Assess for signs of pulmonary
toxicity (Rales/crackles,
decreased breath sounds,
pleuritic friction rub, fatigue,
dyspnea, cough, pleuritic pain,
fever)
• Monitor BP frequently,
hypotension usually occurs
during first several hours of
therapy and is related to rate
of infusion. If Hypotension
occurs, slow rate.
• Do not give to patients who
had anyadverse reactions that
affects the movement of
material through the digestive
tract.
• Do not give to pregnant
women or nursing mothers
 conduction through the AV • Monitor VS.
junction • Report increase HR
Decrease bodily • Monitor for constipation,
secretions oliguria.
(anticholinergic effect) • Instruct to take 30 mins before
meals
• Monitor BP and apical pulse
before
administration and periodically
after dose.
• Eat foods high in fiber and
drink plenty fluids.
• Can cause photophobia
• Instruct client not to drive a
motor vehicle
• or participate in activities
requiring alertness.
• Advise to use hard candy, ice
chips, etc. for dry mouth.
• watch out for adverse
reactions:
dry mouth, blurred vision,
photophobia and tachycardia.
Patients may also stop
sweating making them prone
to discomfort in warm
weather. Excessive doses can
lead to excessive thirst,
dizziness, tremor fatigue and
loss of coordination.
Bricanyl Bronchodilator • Do not give to mother or fetus
Acts by activating specific receptors in which prolongation of the
in the airways known as beta 2 pregnancy is hazardous
adrenoreceptors • Do not give to patients with
hypersensitivity to this drug

Buscopan Antispasmodic
exerts a spasmolytic action on the
smooth muscle of the
gastrointestinal, biliary and urinary
tracts.
Calcium Gluconate Mineral and electrolyte
Replacements or suppliments
Maintain cell membrane and capillary
permeability. Act as an activator in
the transmission of nerve impulses
• Monitor VS
• Assess for characteristics of
respirations
• Watch out for adverse
reactions: Increased heart
rate, Muscle cramps, Agitation,
Diarrhea, Bad taste,
Hyperactivity in children,
Insomnia, Skin rash,
Hyperglycemia
• Do not give to patients with
myasthenia gravis, megacolon
and hypersensitivity.
• Do not administer in patients
with: untreated narrow angle
glaucoma; tachycardia,
hypertrophy of the prostate
with urinary retention; and
mechanical stenoses of the
gastrointestinal tract.
• Assess for condition of patient
before therapy
• Monitor bowel sounds
• Watch out for adverse
reactions: rash, itching,
swelling of the hands or feet,
trouble breathing, increased
pulse, dizziness, diarrhea,
vision problems, eye pain.
• Observe patient closely for
symptoms of hypocalcemia
(Paresthesia, muscle twitching,
laryngeospasm, colic, cardiac
 and contraction of cardiac smooth
and skeletal muscle. Replacement of
calcium in deficiency states
Dexamethasone Corticosteroid
Decreases inflammation mainly by
stabilizing leukocyte lysosomal
membranes: suppresses immune
response, stimulates bone marrow
and influences protein, fat and
carbohydrate metabolism
Diazepam Antiepileptic, Antxiolytic
Exact mechanism of action not
understood. Acts mainly at the limbic
system and recticulo-formation.
Diphenhydramine Decongestant
Acts on blood vessel, GI, respiratory
system by antagonizing the effects of
Histamine for H1 receptor site.
Decreases allergic response by
blocking Histamine causes increase
heart rate, vasodilatation, secretion.
Dobutamine Adrenergics
Stimulates beta-1 (Myocardial)
adrenergic receptors with relatively
arrhythmias) Notify physcian if
these occur.
• Monitor BP, PR, and ECG
frequently throughout
parenteral therapy. May cause
vasodilation with resulting
hypotension, bradycardia,
arrhythmias, and cardiac
arrest.
• Monitor patient’s weight, BP,
and electrolyte levels
• Monitor patient for cushing
goid effects
• Watch for depression and
psychotic episodes specially in
high dose therapy
• Inspect patient’s skin for
petichae
• Monitor ECG in patients
treated with epilepticus,
seizure may recur after initial
control.
• Report severe dizziness,
weakness, hearing
disturbances, difficulty voiding.
• Assess frequency and nature
of cough, lung sounds,
amount, and type of sputum
produced.
• Assess degree of nasal
stiffness, rhinorrhea and
sneezing
• Palpate peripheral pulses and
assess appearance of
extremities routinely
 minor effect on HR or peripheral throughout administration
blood vessels. Increase cardiac • Monitor BP,HR, pulmonary
output without significantly increased capillary wedge pressure,
HR cardiac output and urinary
output continuously during
administration
• Report significant changes in
VS or arrhythmias
Dormicum Anxiolytic, Anticonvulsant • Use with special precautions in
short-acting drug in pregnant women, neonates,
the benzodiazepine class that is used elderly patients, and patients
for treatment of acute seizures and who are alcoholic
for inducing sedation and amnesia • Monitor VS
before medical procedures.
Duvadilan Vasodilator • Monitor HR and BP frequently
beta-adrenergic agonist that causes direct • Let the patient know that this
relaxation of uterine and vascular smooth muscle.
Therefore, it's used in humans for treatment of drug may be detected in the
premature labour. urine for several months after
administration.
Dopamine Inotropic Agent • Do not give to people with
Immediate precursor of Epinephrine Hyperthyroidism, nor in
in the body, exogenous presence of uncorrected
administration produces direct tachyarrhythmias or
stimulation of Beta-1 receptors and ventricular fibrillation
variable (dose-dependent) • Take precaution in pregnant
stimulation of alpha receptors women (pregnancy category
(peripheral vasoconstriction), will C), hypovolemia should be
cause release of norepinephrine from corrected before the
storage sites. This actions results in administration
increased myocardial contraction and • Monitor Vital signs and ECG
cardiac output, systemic during infusion, watch for
vasoconstriction as well as increase dysrhythmia and ischemia.
renal blood flow and sodium • *if BP drops 30 mmHg stop
excretion. infusion and report to the
physician

Digoxin Cardiac Glycoside
Inhibits sodium-potassium activated
adenosine triphosphate, thereby
allowing influx of calcium into the
intracellular space (cytoplasm), more
available calcium promotes
increased force of myocardial
infarction (positive inotropic
effect)resulting to increased cardiac
output. It also acts on the CNS to
enhance vagal tone, causing the
decrease of conduction speed
between SA and AV nodes.
Epinephrine Beta2 Adrenergic Agonists
 Stimulates beta receptors in lung.
 Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle.
 Increases vital capacity
 ↑BP, ↑ HR, ↑PR
 ↓ airway resistance.
• Monitor for possible adverse
reaction
• Do not give to people with
Intermittent Heart block, and
hypersensitivity
• Take precaution in pregnant
women (pregnancy category
C), renal impairment, thyroid
disease, previous cardiac
glycoside use, Hypertensive
Heart Failure, AMI
• Assess for PR before giving
this medication. If <60 in adult
and <90 in infant or
significantly different,
reassess. If still the same
report to the physician.
• Monitor cardiac status
• Monitor renal function
• Watch out for signs of
Anorexia, GI disturbances,
Gynecomastia, and
tachycardia.
• Monitor V/S. and check for
cardiac dysrrhythmias
• Drug increases rigidity and
tremor in
• patients with Parkinson’s
disease
• Epinephrine therapy interferes
with tests for urinary
catecholamine
• Avoid IM use of parenteral
suspension into buttocks. Gas
 gangrene may occur
• Massage site after IM injection
to
counteract possible
vasoconstriction.
• Observe patient closely for
adverse
reactions. Notify doctor if
adverse reactiondevelop
• If blood pressure increases
sharply, rapid acting
vasodilators such as nitrates or
alpha blockers can be given to
counteract
Furosemide Loop Diuretic • Monitor wt., BP and PR
Inhibits Na and Cl reabsorption at the • Monitor fluid, I&O, electrolyte,
proximal BUN and
and distal tubules and in the • CO2 levels frequently
ascending loop of • WOF signs of hypokalemia
Henle
• Monitor uric acid levels
• Monitor glucose levels esp in
DM pts
Hydralasine Antihypertensive • Monitor BP and PR frequently
Direct acting peripheral arteriolar during initial dose and
vasodilator. Decrease of BP in HPN periodically after therapy
and decrease after load for patients • If PO, administer with meals to
with CHF. enhance absorption
• If direct IV administer
undiluted. Use solution as
quickly as possible after
drawing through needle into
syringe (changes in color after
contact with metal filter)
Isosorbide Dinitrate Anti-anginal, Vasodilator • Report blurred vision,
Relaxes vascular smooth muscles persistent or severe headache.
 with a resultant decrease in venus
return and decrease in arterial BP.
Decreases myocardial consumption
Ketorolac NSAIDS
May inhibit prostaglandin synthesis
to produce anti-inflammatory
analgesic and antipyretic effect
Levophed Inotropic agent
Powerful peripheral vasoconstriction
(Alpha-adrenergic action) and as a
potent inotropic stimulator of the
heart and dilator of coronary arteries
(Beta- adrenergic action)
Lidocaine CV drugs: Anti-arrhythmics
Anesthetic
Increases electrical stimulation of
ventricle and
His-purkinje system by direct action
on tissues,
resulting to decrease depolarization,
automaticity
and excitability in ventricles during
diastolic phase
Magnesium Sulfate Anticonvulsant
Decreased acetylcholine released to
prevent ventricular arrhythmias and
to prevent or treat seizures in severe
preeclampsia or eclampsia.
• Carefully observe patient with
coalgulopathies.
• Monitor cardiac status
• Monitor VS specially BP and HR
• Watch out for adverse effects:
• Assess pt before and after
therapy
• Pts infusion must be on cardiac
monitor
• Monitor ECG, if QT or QRS
increases by 50% or more,
withhold the drug
• Monitor BP, check for rebound
HPN after 1-2 hrs
• Assess respiratory status,
oxygenation
and pulse deficits
• Assess renal and liver function
• Monitor CNS symptoms
• Monitor blood levels
• Do not give to patient if RR is
>16 cpm
• Use with caution in patients
with renal impairment or
whose urine output has been
less than 100 ml in the
previous 4 hours, elderly and

Mefenamic Acid Analgesic, Antipyretic, Muscle
Relaxant
Exhibits anti-inflamatory analgesic
and antipyretic activity. The exact
mechanism had not been clearly
established but many of the actions
appear to be associated principally
with the inhibition of prostaglandin
synthesis.
Methergin Oxytocin drug
Increase motor activity of the uterus
by direct stimulation of smooth
muscle, reducing blood loss.
Metoclopramide Anitiemetic
lowers pressure threshold for
occurrence of intestinal peristaltic
reflex. Coordinates gastric, pyloric
and duodenal activity to improve GI
those with severe
bradyarrhythmias.
• Monitor I&O. make sure urine
output is 100 ml or more in 4
hrs pd before
each dose
• Take appropriate seizure
precautions
• Keep IV Ca gluconate at
bedside
• Watch out for adverse
reactions: respiratory
depression, loss of reflexes,
flaccid paralysis, tetany,
hypotension, cardiac arrest,
heart block, bradyarrhythmias,
hypocalcemia, flushing,
hypothermia, diaphoresis
• Assess patient’s level of pain
before therapy
• Assess patient’s level of pain
after administration of
medication
• Use in precaution in patients
with renal or hepatic failure
• Monitor uterine response
• Monitor VS
• monitor Blood loss
• >Do not give to patients with
Hypersensitivity, possible GI
obstruction or hemorrhage and
history of seizure disorders
 motility
Nalbuphine Hydrochloride Opioid analgesic
Unknown. Binds with opiate
receptors in the CNS, altering
perception of and emotional
response to pain.
Naloxone Opioid Antagonist
used to reverse the effects of
narcotic drugs used during surgery or
to treat pain, may also be used to
treat narcotic drug overdose or to
diagnose narcotic drug addiction.
• >Monitor I and O
• >Monitor and record for
vomiting
• >Watch out for adverse
reaction Acute CHF, AV block,
bradycardia, fluid retention,
hypertension, hypotension,
supraventricular tachycardia,
nausea, fluid retention,
incontinence, urinary
frequency.
• >Reassess patient’s level of
pain at least 15v and 30 mins.
After parenteral
administration.
• Monitor circulatory and
respiratory status and bladder
and bowel control or function.
• If respiration are shallow or
rate is below 12 breaths per
min., withhold dose and notify
prescriber.
• Psychological and physical
dependence may occur with
prolong use.
• Assess patient’s condition
before the therapy
• Do not give to patients with
Respiratory depression
• Monitor VS
• Monitor for abrupt increase or
decrease in BP
• Watch out for adverse

Paracetamol Analgesic, Antipyretic
Decreases fever by inhibiting the
effects of pyrogens on the
hypothalamic heat regulating center
and by a hypothalamic action leading
to sweating and vasodilatation.
Relieves pain by inhibiting
prostaglandin synthesis at the CNS
but does not have anti-Inflammatory
action because of its minimal effect
on peripheral prostaglandin
synthesis.
Phenergan Antihistamine
Phenothiazine derivative that
competes with histamine for H1
receptor sites on effector cells.
Prevents, but does not reverse
histamine mediated responses. At
high doses, drug also has local
anesthetic effect.
Phenobarbital Anticonvulsant
To enhance the inhibitory actions of
gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) on
neurons.
reactions: chest pain or fast or
irregular heartbeats;feeling
light-headed, fainting;seizure
(convulsions); or difficulty
breathing.
• Assess patient’s fever or pain:
Type of pain, location,
intensity, duration,
temperature, and diaphoresis
• Assess allergic reactions: Rash,
urticaria. If these occur, drug
may have to be discontinued.
• Monitor patient fro neuroleptic
malignant syndrome, altered
mental status, autonomic
instability, muscle rigidity, and
hyperpyrexia.
• Stop drug 4 days before
diagnostic skin testing
because antihistamines can
prevent, reduce or mask
positive skin test response
• Do not give to patients with
hypersensitivity to this drug
• Assess for the patient’s
condition before the therapy
• Assess for the seizure
characteristics
• Monitor VS

Phenytoin Anticonvulsant
Treatment of epilepsy. The primary
site of action appears to be the
motor cortex where spread of seizure
activity is inhibited.
Potassium Chloride Mineral and electrolyte
replacement or supplement
Maintain acid-base balance,
isotonicity, and electrophysiologic
balance of the cell. Activator in many
• Watch out for adverse
reactions: CV: slow heartrate
(bradycardia), low blood
pressure (hypotension). CNS:
lethargy, sedation, ataxia, or
paradoxical excitement. Often
dose related, these signs may
subside with continued
therapy. Respiratory:
breathing depressed. GI:
polydipsia (increase thirst)GU:
polyuria (increased urine
output) Skin: abscess or
necrosis at injection site.
• Do not give to patients with
history of confusion or
restlessness from hypnotics, or
hypersensitivity, renal or
hepatic impairment and severe
pulmonary insufficiency
• Monitor I and O
• Assess for cessation of seizure
• Assess renal studies
• Watch out for adverse
reactions: GI disturbances,
slurred speech, diplopia,
mental confusion with
headache, dizziness
• Assess for signs and symptoms
of hypokalemia (weakness,
fatigue, arrhythmias, polyuria)
and hypovolemia.
 enzymatic reaction. Essential to
transmission of nerve impulses,
contraction of cardiac skeletal and
smooth muscle, gastric secretion,
renal function, tissue synthesis and
carbohydrate metabolism.
Ranitidine H2Receptor antagonist
Competitively inhibits the action of
histamine at the H2 receptors of the
parietal cells of the stomach,
inhibiting basal gastric acid secretion
and gastric acid secretion that is
stimulated by food, insulin,
histamine, cholinergic agonist,
gastrin and pentagastrin.
Sodium Bicarbonate Anti-ulcer agent
Acts as an alkalinizing agent by
releasing bicarbonate ions. Following
oral administration, releases
bicarbonate, which is capable of
neutralizing gastric acid.
Tramadol Analgesic
Binds to mu-opioid receptors and
inhibits the reuptake of
norepinephrine and serotonin causes
many effects similar to the opioids:
dizziness, somnolence, nausea,
constipation, but does not have the
respiratory depressant effects.
Verapamil calcium channel blocker
Treatments of hypertension, angina
pectoris, cardiac arrhythmia, and
• Monitor pulse, BP and ECG
periodically during IV therapy.
• Administer oral drug with
meals
• Decrease dose in renal and
liver failure
• Provide concurrent antacid
therapy to relieve pain
• Report sore throat, fever,
unusual bruising or bleeding,
tarry stools, confusion,
hallucinations, dizziness,
severe headache, , muscle or
joint pains.
• Assess fluid balance (I and O,
daily weight, edema, lung
sounds) throughout therapy
• Report symptoms of fluid
overload (HPN, edema,
dyspnea) if they occur
• Control environment (Temp.
and light) If sweating or CNS
effects occur.
• Instruct the patient to avoid
driving or performing tasks
that requires alertness
• Report severe nausea,
dizziness, severe constipation
• Do not give to patients with
Bradycardia second and third
degree atrioventricular block,
most recently cluster headaches. It is
also an effective preventive
medication for migraine. Verapamil
has also been used as a vasodilator
during cryopreservation of blood
vessels.
heart failure, Wolff-Parkinson-
White syndrome
• Assess patient’s condition
before drug therapy
• Monitor VS and I & O
• Watch out for adverse
reactions: Constipation,
nausea, hypotensive
symptoms, ankle edema,
atrioventricular block
 Saint Dominic College of Asia

E. Aguinaldo Highway, Talaba IV Bacoor, Cavite

Emergency Drugs
(Drug study)

Submitted By:

Chan, Celine C.

BSN 3A GROUP3

Submitted to:

Ms. Lorda R.N.