Classification acetaminophen Nonopioid analgesic (Pain medication for mild to moderate pain), antipyretic (prevent or reduce fever).

PO/RECT 325-650 mg q46hr prn, max 4g/day.

Indications Mild to moderate pain or fever, arthralgia (pain in a joint), dental pain, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation or abdominal cramps), headache, myalgia (pain in a muscle), osteoarthritis. Adverse Effects drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, GI bleeding, seizure, renal failure, leukopenia, rash, hypersensitivity, cyanosis, jaundice, coma, death, CNS stimulation, delirium followed by vascular collapse.

Contraindications Hypersenstivity, intolerance to tartrazine, alcohol, table sugar, saccharin, depending on product.

Mechanism of Action May block pain impulses peripherally that occur in response to inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis; does not possess anti-inflammatory properties; antipyretic action results from inhibition of prostaglandins in the CNS.

Nursing Considerations Assess health status and alcohol usage before administering. Assess for pain (type and location), use pain scale. Allergic reactions like rash, if it occurs product may have to discontinued. Decreasing output may indicate renal failure.

Classification Simvastin antilipemics

Indications Reduce the risk of death from CV To reduce total and LDL cholesterol in patients

Contraindications Allergy Hypoglycemia Some antacids Iodine containing contrast mediums Nursing Considerations Strict diet with restricted saturated fat Obtain liver function test results at start of therapy and periodically.

Mechanism of Action

Adverse Effects

Inhibits HMG-CoA an early Asthenia step in cholestrol biosynthesis. Headache Syspepsia Upper respiratory tract infection.

Classification Loop Diuretics furosemide (Lasix)

Indications Congestive Heart Failure Mitral Regurgitation Hypertension

Contraindications Steroids (may lead to hypokalemia) Digoxin (may lead to hypokalemia) Anuria Kidney failure

PO/IV

Mechanism of Action
Acts on loop of Henle to block chloride and sodium reabsorption (reduces fluid volume and removes fluid from the body) Help to decrease preload and central venous pressures

Adverse Effects
Dizziness N/V/D Tinnitus Headache Hypokalemia Hyperglycemia Muscle cramping Dehydration Urinary frequency

Nursing Considerations
Thorough cardiovascular assessment is required prior to administration Monitor potassium levels Monitor glucose levels Instruct client to decrease diet of sodium-rich foods Client should report a weight loss of more than 2 lb/week Serum electrolytes should be closely monitored r/t frequent changes in kidney function Tinnitus can be avoided by dividing oral doses Greater risk for hypotension and excessive diuresis