Question

List the classification/ drug type, mechanism of action and what to Pre/Post assess before and after administering medication

1. Ferrous Sulfate ( Slow Fe)

2. Potassium Chloride (K-Dur, Micro-K)

3. Celecoxib (Celebrex)

4. Carisoprodol (Soma)

5. Vancomycin ( Vancocin)

6. Nystatin (Mycostatin)

7. Amphotericin B (Fungizone)

8.Acyclovir (Zovirax)

9. Cefazolin (Ancef)

10. Azithromycin ( Zithromax)

Answer 1

1. Ferrous Sulfate (Slow Fe)

Classification : Ferrous Sulfate is a small molecule categorised under Iron Products. It is used to treat iron deficiency anemai in children and adults.

Mechanism of Action: Iron is necessary for our body as it plays a significant role in the formation of hemoglobin. The body lacks in producing red blood cells when there is a deficiency in Iron. When our body refuses to store Iron we tend to have Iron deficiency anemia. Ferrous Sulfate replenishes the iron that is required for oxygen transport in the cells, for energy metabolism, tissue growth and repair. Iron is converted to Ferritin and stored in macrophage which is then oxidised by an enzyme ceruloplasmin to Fe3+, following a separation by transferrin which is then transported into the blood serum and bone marrow for hemoglobin synthesis. Hemoglobin is formed when Iron combines with porphyrin and globin chains. The hemoglobin formed therefore transports oxygen through the cells to tissues and organs.

Pre/Post assess : Ferrous Sulfate is taken by Oral route of administration. It is suggested to take Iron formulations on an empty stomach preferably 1 to 2 hrs before meal. Antibiotics and Antacids should be avoided during this time as it will interfere with the absorption. Make sure to take the prescribed dosage and avoid overdose.

General side effects include nausea, constipation, black stools, diarrhoea.

It is contraindicated in patients with hemolytic anemia, thalassemia and iron overload syndrome. It is not advisable to break or crush the tablets.

2. Potassium Chloride (K-Dur, Micro-K)

Classification : Potassium Chloride is an electrolyte replenisher.

Potassium helps in the normal functioning of body organs. Low levels lead to hypokalemia. In such cases the potassium supplement is given in Oral formulation or as an Injectable.

Mechanism of Action : Potassium is an important mineral which is required for proper functioning of cells and tissues in the body. The electrolyte is essential for normal functioning of kidney, heart, smooth muscles, and nerve conduction.

Pre/Post assess : The tablet form should not be crushed, chewed or sucked.

Never take this medicine in case of hyperkalemia, kidney, or liver disorders, and while on other medications like Potassium-sparing diuretics.

General side effects include nausea, throat irritation, stomach bloating, diarrhoea, bloody stools. Consult your doctor immediately when you come across severe side effects.

3. Celecoxib (Celebrex)

Classification: It is classified under NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drug).

It is used in the treatment of Spondylitis, Rheumatois Arthritis and Osteoarthritis.

Mechanism of Action : Celecoxib acts by inhibiting the synthesis of Prostaglandins - receptor of inflammation. Celecoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor that decreases the synthesis of prostaglandin and its metabolites as well as thromboxane .The structure of Celecoxib has a sulphonamide side chain which involves in hydrophilic binding of the active site of COX-2 thereby inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.This inhibition results in the reduction of pain.

Pre/Post assess : Celecoxib is available as an Oral formulation.

Side effects include swollen feet, hand or ankles, abdominal pain, diarrhea, heart attack and stroke. Severe cases may lead to anaphylactic shock.

Contraindicated in patients who are allergic to NSAIDs, patients with liver, kidney or heart disease.