Chapter 20 Pharm

produce their effects by activating adrenergic receptors
aka sympathomimetic

catecholamines and noncatecholamines

neurotransmitters that can be found in the body naturally
cannot be use orally
brief duration of action
cannot cross the BBB

albuterol, ephedrine
can be given orally
metabolized slowly by MOA--longer half life
more able to cross the blood brain barrier

1. Vasoconstriction ( most common)
- blood vessels
- skin
- viscera
- mucous membranes
2. Mydriasis - dilation of the rafdial muscle of the iris

homeostasis -- can stop bleeding via vasoconstriction
nasal decongestion -- mucosal vasoconstriction
elevation of BP -- vasoconstriction

hypertension from widespread vasoconstriction

reduction of sympathetic outflow to heart and blood vessels
relief of severe pain

profound hypotension
maintain blood flow to vital organs

dysrhythmias
angina

asthma promotes bronchodilation

hyperglycemia

dilation of the vasculature of the kidneys

Class: catecolamine or adrenergic agonist
Use: controls superficial bleeding, elevates blood pressure, restores cardiac function in arrest, bronchial dilation in asthma, treatment of choice for anaphylactic shock
Adverse: hypertensive crisis, dysrhythmias, angina pectoris
Nursing Implication: short half life

EpiPen
IV (monitor closely)
IM
SubQ
NO PO -> SYNTHETIC CATECOLAMINE

Class: catecholamine, adrenergic agonist
Use: hypotensive states, cardiac arrest
Adverse: necrosis with extravasation (IV not in vein well and gets into tissue)
Nursing Implication: check IV regularly

beta 1 and beta 2
catacholamine
cardiovascular

Use: increase cardiac output, increase renal perfusion
Adverse: necrosis with extravasation
Nursing Implication: check IV regularly

Class: noncatecholamine
Use: ashtma (selective for beta 2)
Adverse: tremor, tachycardia
Nursing implications: