migraines

Question 1

what are some symptoms of migraines

Answer 1

• unilateral pain, usually pulsing
• vertigo
• N/V
• photophobia
• can become chronic

Question 2

what are some possible causes of migraines

Answer 2

• neurogenic vasodilation
• possible genetic element
• woman > men

Question 3

describe the action of ergotamine tartrate

Answer 3

stimulates vascular smooth muscle to constrict cranial blood vessels

Question 4

whats ergotamine tartrate used for

Answer 4

treat migraine headaches

Question 5

what are some adverse effects of ergotamine tartrate

Answer 5

• cardiac effects
• musculoskeletal effects
• vertigo
• N/V

Question 6

what are some contraindications of ergotamine tartrate

Answer 6

• vascular disease
• azole antifungals and macrolide antibiotics

Question 7

describe the action of sumatriptan

Answer 7

produces cranial vascular constriction. also relieves nausea, vomiting, and photophobia

Question 8

whats sumatriptan used for

Answer 8

treat migraine headaches

Question 9

what are some adverse effects of sumatriptan

Answer 9

• dizziness
• anxiety
• malaise

Question 10

what are some contraindications of sumatriptan

Answer 10

vascular disease

Question 11

what are some nursing considerations for migraine drugs

Answer 11

• available in multiple routes: SQ, SL, PO, nasal
• give at onset of headache
• may take up to 2hrs to work
• monitor BP
• safety precautions

Question 12

describe patient education for migraine drugs

Answer 12

• ensure patient knows how to take med
• take at onset of headache
• do not drive after taking
• may take up to 2 hours to work

Question 13

what are some possible meds to take that can help prevent migraines

Answer 13

• beta-adrenergic blockers (propanolol)
• calcium channel blockers (verapamil)
• carboxylic acid derivatives (valproic acid)
• gamma-aminobutyric acid (gabapentin)
• ACE-1 inhibitors (enalapril)
• tricyclic antidepressants (imipramine)