NUR 2474 Pharmacology Module 2

NUR 2474 Pharmacology Module 2
1. Action
Answer
Levodopa/Carbidopa
levodopa converts dopamine in the brain; carbidopa inhibits peripheral decarboxylase in theliver
allowing more levodopa to reach the BBB (blood brain barrier)
2. Nursing Considerations
Answer
Levodopa/Carbidopa
-Observe symptoms of Parkinson'd Disease
- Assess for dyskinesia
-Administer meds with low-protein foods and avoid tyramine
-Assess for postural hypotension
-Don't abruptly stop medication
-Urine and perspiration discoloration (black, brown, red)
3. Cholinergic Agonists
Answer
-drugs that stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system
-stimulates the rest and digest response
4. Side effects
Answer
Cholinergic Agonists
- rest and digest
- N/V
-diarrhea
- bradycardia
- hypotension
-diziness/lightheadedness
-lacrimation
- salivation
- fainting
- headache
- urinary frequency
- GI upset
- diaphoresis