Question

1. Describe the difference between drug dependence and drug tolerance;

2. Describe how withdrawal symptoms can be avoided;

3. What assessment findings would be expected in a patient who has stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system or who uses sympathomimetic (adrenergic) drugs?

4. Order: loxapine (Loxitane) 75 mg, IM, daily

Available: loxapine (Loxitane) 50 mg/1 ML

How many milliliters (ML) will the patient receive?

Answer 1

Question 1.Answer.

Dependence is due to the changes in the body as a result of continous use of a particular drug. Dependence is also a part of addiction,but non-addictive drugs can also produce dependence in some patients. Dependence is specifically a condition in which the body has adapted to a continous use of drug to get desired effect.The stopping of such drugs can cause withdrawal symptoms.

While tolerance is dicreased response of person to a particular drug due to its repeated usage. Tolerance is more in the case of opiods.Tolerance never means the person is addicted to the drug.It means that the current dose of drug is no longer producing the desired effect of that drug.

Question 2 Answer.

Withdrawal symptoms cab be avoided by

A.Regular exercises: Regular exercise can restore chemical balance of the brain,it also helps to reduce tension and stress.so by improving physical health the person can achieve good mental health and stability during withdrawal.

B. Good balanced and nutritonal meal. Eat a diet rich in proteins and essential vitamins will enhance both physical and mental health.It will help to overcome withdrawal symptoms.

C.Get hydrated: Dehydration is common problem during withdrawal,so it is better to drink enough water to get hydrated.

D.Follow good sleeping pattern: Adequate rest and sleep help the person to control mood swing and craving. Sleep is often disturbed during withdrawal,so try to regulate it by good sleep habit.

E.Psychological support: Emotional support both from family and friends are very important during with drawal,especially like alcohol or opiod withdrawal.

F.Sometimes medical treatment like detoxification therapy in the case of alcohol withdrawal symptoms aslo very helpful.

G.Practising relaxation techniques like yoga also will help to overcome withdrawal.

Question 3. Answer.

The person using sympathomimetic drugs will have

A. Cardiovascular effects like hypertension,increased heart rate,arrhythmias,may cause angina and myocardial infarction in patient with coronary artery disease,

B. Urinary retension due to sphinctere contraction

C. Dilation of pupils( Midriasis)

D. Tremor, agitation,insomnia and diaphoresis.

E. Dizziness, Nausea, Vomiting.

Question 4 Answer.

Ordered dose= 75mg loxipan

Available dose=50mg loxipan

Available volume= 1 ml

Required dose=(ordered dose/available dose) X Available volume

= ( 75mg/50mg)X 1ml

= 1.5ml

Ptient shoud receive 1.5ml