Inflammation

Question 1

Background information for Corticosteroids

Answer 1

Activation of glucocorticoid receptors reduces the production of inflammatory mediators and suppresses immune system activity

Question 2

Pharmacology of Corticosteroids

Answer 2

Corticosteroids bind to and activate glucocorticoid receptors

Question 3

Indications of Corticosteroids

Answer 3

• Inflammation
• Allergic Reactions
• Autoimmune disorders
• Adrenal insufficiency (adrenal glands don’t product enough hormone)

Question 4

Side effects of Corticosteroids

Answer 4

• Gastrointestinal irritation/ulceration
• Fluid retention
• Hypertension
• Hyperglycemia
• Weight gain
• Thinning of the skin

Question 5

Drug interactions of Corticosteroids

Answer 5

• Antibiotics increase the effect of warfarin which increases the risk of bleeding
• May decrease the effect of oral contraceptives

Question 6

What do Corticosteroids end with?

Answer 6

“-sone, -solone)

Question 7

Important note fo Corticosteroids

Answer 7

• Administer with food or milk to reduce GI irritation/ulceration
• Potential consequences of immunosuppression
• Corticosteroid withdrawal, doses to be tapered

Question 8

Background information for Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Answer 8

Inflammation commonly causes pain. The process of inflammation is mediated by prostaglandins, which are naturally produced within the body

Question 9

Pharmacology of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Answer 9

Block cyclooxygenase (COX), the enzyme responsible for the production of prostaglandins

Question 10

Indications of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Answer 10

• Pain
• Inflammation
• Fever

Question 11

Side effects of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Answer 11

• Nausea/Vomiting
• Stomach ulcers
• Renal impairment
• Cardiovascular events
• Reye’s Syndrome

Question 12

Drug interactions of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Answer 12

• Increased risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs

Question 13

Important note for Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Answer 13

• Prostaglandins protect the stomach lining, NSAIDs reduce prostaglandin and increase the risk of stomach bleeding, take with food
• Avoid NSAIDs during the third trimester of pregnancy
  -Toradol is the most potent NSAIDs, 5-day limit use