Name of the Drug Dosage/Route Action/Classification Indication/ Adverse Effects/ Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities

Contraindications
Generic Name: Cardiac arrest: Action: Indications: Adverse Effects: Monitor V/S. and check for
epinephrine 1 mg IV of 1:10,000 solution Stimulates beta receptors in o Asthma
cardiac dysrhythmias
q 3-5 min; double dose if lung. o Bronchitis
Brand Name: administering o Emphysema nervousness, tremor, vertigo,
Injection, OTC nasal via ET tube Relaxes bronchial smooth o All cardiac arrest, pain, widened pulse pressure, Drug increases rigidity and
solution: muscle. anaphylaxis hypertension nausea tremor in patients with
Adrenalin Chloride Anaphylaxis: 0.1- 1 mg SQ o Used for Parkinson’s disease
or IM of 1:1000 solution. Increases vital capacity symptomatic
Ophthalmic solution:  BP,  HR,  PR Side Effects: Epinephrine therapy
bradycardia. headache
Epifrin, Glaucon Asthma: 0.1-0.3 mg SQ or o Relief of interferes with tests for
IM of 1:10,000 solution Decreases airway resistance. bronchospasm urinary catecholamine
Insect sting emergencies: occurring during Avoid IM use of parenteral
EpiPen Auto-Injector (delivers Refractory bradycardia and anesthesia
0.3 mg IM adult dose), hypotension: 2-10ug/min Classification: suspension into buttocks. Gas
Beta2 Adrenergic Agonists o Exercised-induced
EpiPen Jr. Auto-Injector gangrene may occur
bronchospasm
(delivers 0.15 mg IM for Massage site after IM
children)
Contraindications: injection to counteract
OTC solutions for
Contraindicate in patients possible vasoconstriction.
with angle-closure glaucoma,
nebulization: Observe patient closely for
shock (other than anaphylactic
AsthmaNefrin, microNefrin, adverse reactions. Notify
shock), organic brain damage,
Nephron, S2
cardiac dilation, arrhythmias, doctor if adverse reaction
coronary insufficiency, or develop
cerebral arteriosclerosis. Also
If blood pressure increases
contraindicated in patient
receiving general anesthesia sharply, rapid-acting
with halogenated vasodilators such as nitrates or
hydrocarbons or cyclopropane alpha blockers can be given to
and in patients in labor (may counteract
delay second stage)

Some products containing

sulfites and are
contraindicated in patients

1
with sulfite allergies except
when drug is used for serious
allergic reactions or in other
emergency situations.

In conjunction with local

anesthesia, epinephrine is
contraindicated for use in
finger, toes, ears, nose, and
genitalia.

Use cautiously with long-

standing bronchial asthma and
emphysema, who have
developed degenerative heart
disease and in those with
hyperthyroidism, CV disease,
hypertension, psychoneurosis,
or diabetes.

In pregnant woman, drug is

contraindicated.

In breast feeding do not use

the drug or stop breast
feeding.

2
Name of the Drug Dosage/Route Action/Classification Indication/ Adverse Effects/ Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities
Contraindications
Generic Name: 1-1.5 mg/kg IVP or ETT Action: Indications: Adverse Effects: Monitor EKG, BP, pulse,
lidocane (double dose if giving via ET Decrease cardiac excitability, rhythm, continuously.
Decrease cardiac excitability, CNS: Confusion, tremor,
tube), may repeat q 5-10 min. cardiac contraction is delayed
Brand Name: max cardiac contraction is delayed in the atrium and ventricle lethargy, somnolence, stupor, Monitor serum lidocaine
Xylocaine 3 mg/kg; If conversion in the atrium and ventricle restlessness anxiety, levels throughout theraphy;
successful start an infusion of Contraindications: hallucinations, nervousness, therapreutic range 1.5-5
2-4 mg/min Classification: Contraindicated in patients mcg/ml
seizure. CV: hypotension,
Antiarrythmic and Anesthetic hypersensitive to amide-type
local anesthetics and in those bradychardia, new or Monitor intake and output
with Adams –Stoke syndrome. worsened arrhythmias EENT:
Wolff-Parkinsons-White tinnitus, blurred or double Do not mix in the same
Syndrome, or severe degrees syringe with amphoterin B or
vision.
of SA, AV, or intraventricular cefazolin
block in the absence of Respiratory: Respiratory
pacemaker. depression and arrest
Administer Lidocaine TIV.
Skin: soreness at injection site
Other: anaphylaxis,
In case of circulatory
depression have dopamine
Side Effects:
available
sensation of cold, vomiting

3
Name of the Drug Dosage/Route Action/Classification Indication/ Adverse Effects/ Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities
Contraindications
Generic Name: 0.5-1 mg/kg slow IVP over 1- Action: Indications: Adverse Effects: Monitor serum
furosemide 2 min, may repeat once at 2 inhibits sodium and chloride Edema associated with CHF vertigo, headache, paresthesia, glucose, and electrolyte
Brand Name: mg/kg slow IVP over 1-2 reabsorption at the proximal orthostatic hypotension, D iet- K+ for all
mins. and distal tubules and the Cirrhosis with ascites or renal thrombophlebitis, abdominal except aldactone
Apo-Furosemide ascending loop of Henlen dysfunction pain, Hypokalemia, anemia, I ntake and Output,
muscle spasm daily weight
Furoside Classification: For hypertension or in U ndesirable effects;
Loop Diuretics combination with other Fluid and electrolyte
Lasix antihypertensive medications. imbalance
R eview HR, BP and
Lasix Speacial  ICP, nephritic syndrome, electrolytes
hepatic cirrhosis E lderly-Careful
Novosemide T ake with or after
Contraindications: meals and in AM
Uritol I ncrease risk of
Contraindicated to patients orthosthatic hypotension;
hypersensitive to drug or any move slowly
of its components and in those C ancel alcohol
with anuria.

Use cautiously in patient with

hepatic cirrhosis.

Patients with allergies to

sulfonamides may also be
allergic to furosemide.

In pregnant woman, use only

if benefits outweighs the risk
to the fetus.

In breast feeding woman, do

not use drug.

4
Name of the Drug Dosage/Route Action/Classification Indication/ Adverse Effects/ Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities
Contraindications
Generic Name: Adults: For rapid Action: Indications: Adverse Effects: Monitor K+, Mg++, ECG,
digoxin digitalization, give 0.4 to 0.6 Inhibits the sodium- V-fib, V-flutter, CHF, CNS: hallucinations, liver/renal function tests, drug
mg I.V. initially, followed by potassium ATP phase. pulmonary edema, atrial paresthesia, stupor, vertigo. level (therapeutic level 0.5-2.0
Brand Name: 0.1 to 0.3 mg I.V. every 4 fibrillation and or flutter, and CV: Arrythmias, heart failure, mg/ml, toxicity is >2.0
Lanoxin, Digoxin, Lanoxicap hours, as needed and Classification: paroxysmal atrial contractions hypotension. mg/ml).
tolerated, for 24 hours. Cardiac Glycosides EENT: blurred vision,
Contraindications: diplopia, light flashes, Before each dose assess apical
Children: digitalizing dose is Contraindicated in patients photophobia, yellow-green pulse for full minute, record
based on child’s age and is hypersensitive to the drug or halos around visual images. and report changes in rate or
given in three or more divided any of its components and in GI: anorexia, diarrhea, nausea, rhythm.
doses over the first 24 hours. those with digitalis-induced vomiting.
First dose is 50% of total toxicity, ventricular Withhold drug and contact
dose; subsequent dose are fibrillation, or ventricular Side Effects: provider if pulse is < 60/min.
given q 4 to 8 hours as needed tachycardia unless caused by CNS: agitation, dizziness, or >100 (adults) or <
and tolerated. heart failure. fatigue, generalized weakness, 110/minute (children)
headache, malaise.
Children age 10 years and Use cautiously in patients GI: Nausea Weigh daily
older: For rapid digitalization, with acute MI, in complete Av Monitor I&O and signs of
give 8 to 12 mcg/kg I.V. over block, sinus bradycardia, CHF
24 hours, divided as above, PVCs,, chronic constrictive
Maintenance dose is 25% to pericarditis, hyperthropic
35% of total digitalizing dose, cardiomyopathy, renal
given daily as a single dose. insufficiency, severe
pulmonary disease, or
Children ages 5 to 10: For hypothyroidism.
rapid digitalization, give 15 to
30 mcg/kg I.V. over 24 hours
divided as above.
Maintenance dose is 25% to
35% of total digitalizing dose,
divided and given in two or
three equal portions daily.

5
Children ages 2 to 5: For rapid
digitalization: give 25 to 35
mcg/kg I.V. over 24 hours,
divided as above.
Maintenance dose is 25% to
35% of total digitalizing dose,
divided and given in two or
three equal portions daily.

Infants ages 1 month to 2

years: For rapid digitalization.
Give 30 to 50 mcg/kg I.V.
over 24 hours, divided as
above. Maintenance dose is
25% to 35% of the total
digitalizing dose, divided and
given in two or three equal
portions daily.

Neonates: for rapid

digitalization, give 20 to 30
mcg/kg I.V. over 24 hours,
divided as above.
Maintenance dose is 25% to
30% of the total digitalizing
dose, divided and given in two
or three equal portions daily.

Premature Infants: For rapid

digitalization, give 15 to 25
mcg/kg I.V. over 24 hours,
divided as above.
Maintenance dose is 20% to
30% of the total digitalizing
dose, divided and given into
two or three equal portions
daily.

6
Name of the Drug Dosage/Route Action/Classification Indication/ Adverse Effects/ Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities
Contraindications
Generic Name: 1 mEq/kg IVP, may repeat 0.5 Action: Indications: Adverse Effects: Monitor urinary pH, calcium,
Sodium Bicarbonate mEq/kg 10 min. Neutralizes gastric acid o Hyperacidity GI: Gastric distention, electrolytes and phosphate
o Peptic ulcer belching, flatulence. levels.
Brand Name: Arm and Decrease pepsin activity o Hyperkalemia Metabolic: metabolic
Hammer Pure Baking Soda, o Tricyclic alkalosis, hypernatremia, Record amount and
Citrocarbonate, Soda Mint Classification: Alkalizing antidepressant OD hypokalemia, hyperosmolarity consistency of stools.
Agent, Buffer, Antacid, o Shock associated (with overdose).
electrolyte with severe diarrhea, Other: Pain and irritation at Clients on low-sodium diets
dehydration, injection site. should evaluate sodium
uncontrolled DM contents of antacids.
o Reflux esophagitis

Contraindications:
Contraindicated in patients
with metabolic or respiratory
alkalosis; patients who are
losing chlorides from
vomiting or continuous GI
suction; patients taking
diuretics known to produce
hypochloremia alkalosis; and
patients with hypocalcemia in
which alkalosis may produce
tetany, hypertension, seizures,
or heart failure. Oral sodium
bicarbonate is contraindicated
in patients with acute
ingestion of strong mineral
acids.

7
Name of the Drug Dosage/Route Action/Classification Indication/ Adverse Effects/ Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities
Contraindications
Generic Name: Adults: initially, 1 to 5 Action Indications: Adverse Effects: Blood is not a substitute for
Dopamine HCl. mcg/kg/minute by I.V. Stimulates dopaminergic and To treat shock and correct Cv: anginal pain, arrythmias, blood or fluid volume deficit.
infusion. Adjust dose to alpha and beta receptors of the hemodnamic imbalances, bradycardia, conduction If deficit occurs, replace fluid
Brand Name: desired hemodynamic or renal sympathetic nervous system. improve perfusion of vital disturbances ectopic deficit first before giving
Intropin; Revimine response, increase by 1 to 4 Action is dose-related; large organs, to increase cardiac breasts,hypertension, meds.
mcg/kg/minute at 10 to 30- doses can cause mainly alpha output, and to correct hypotension, palpitations,
minute intervals. stimulation. hypotension. tachycardia, vasoconstriction, During infusion, frequently
widening of QRS complex. monitor ECG, BP, cardiac
Classification: Contraindications: output, CVP, pulmonary artery
Inotropic, vasopressor Contraindicated in patient GI: vomiting. wedge pressure, pulse rate,
with uncorrected urine output, and color and
tachyarrhythmias, GU: azotemia temperature of the limbs.
pheocromocytoma, or Respiratory: asthma attacks,
ventricular fibrillation. dyspnea If diastolic pressure rises
- Use cautiously in patients disproportionately, decrease
with occlusive vascular Skin: necrosis,piloerection, perfusion rate and watch out
disease, cold injuries, diabetic tissue sloughing with carefully for further signs of
endarteritis, and arterial extravasation. vasoconstriction unless such
embolism; in pregnant action is desired.
woman; with a history of Other: anaphylaxis.
sulfite sensitivity; and in those Observe for adverse reaction.
taking MAO inhibitor. Side Effects:
CNS: headache Check for urine output. If
GI: nausea urine flow is decrease without
hypotension, notify physician.

After drug is stopped, Tamper

dosage slowly to evaluate
stability of blood pressure.

Acidosis decrease
effectiveness of dopamine.

8
Name of the Drug Dosage/Route/Timing Action/Classification Indication/ Adverse Effects/ Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities
Contraindications
Generic 0.3-0.4 mg SL q 5 min, max 3 Action: Indication: Adverse Effects Record characteristics and
Nitroglycerin doses. Relaxes the vascular smooth Angina pectoris CV: orthostatic hypotension, precipitating factors of anginal
Brand system CHF associated with AMI flushing, fainting. pain.
Nitrostat EENT: sublingual burning.
 Myocardial oxygen Cardiac load reducing agent Skin: Cutaneous vasodilation, Monitor BP and apical pulse
consumption contact dermatitis (patch) before
Hypertensive Crisis Side Effects administration and
 left ventricular workload CNS: headache, throbbing, periodically after dose.
 arterial BP Contraindication: dizziness, weakness.
Contraindicated in patients GI: nausea, vomiting. Have client sit or lie down if
 venous return hypersensitive to nitrates and Skin: Rash taking drug for the first time.
in those with early MI. (S.L.
Classification form), severe anemia, increase Client must have continuing
Antianginal, Nitrate, ICP angle-closure glaucoma, EKG monitoring for IV
Vasodilator, Coronary IV nitroglycerine is administration
contraindicated in patients
with hypovolemia, Cardioverter/ defibrillator
hypotension, orthostatic must not be discharged
hypotension, cardiac through paddle electrode
tamponade restrictive overlying
cardiomyopathy, constrictive Nitro-Bid ointment or the
pericarditis. Transderm-Nitro Patch. Assist
with ambulating if dizzy.

Instruct to take at first sign of

anginal pain.

May be repeated q 5 minutes

to max. of 3 doses.

If the client doesn’t

experience relief, advise to
seek medical assistance

9
 immediately.

Name of the Drug Dosage/Route Action/Classification Indication/ Adverse Effects/ Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities
Contraindications
Generic Bradycardia: 0.5 -1 mg IV Action Indication Adverse Effects Monitor VS.
Atrophine Sulfate (may give via ETT at double cholinergic receptor sites so As an anti-sialagogue for CNS: restlessness, ataxia, Re
dose) q 3-5 min, max 0.04 response to acetylcholine is preanesthetic medication to disorientation, hallucinations, port  HR
Brand mg/kg decreased prevent or reduce secretions delirium, coma, insomnia, M
Isopto Atropine Cardiac arrest: 1 mg q 3-5 of the respiratory tract agitation, confusion. onitor for constipation,
min, max 0.04 mg/kg Classification CV: tachycardia, angina, oliguria.
Anticholinergics To restore cardiac rate and arrhythmias, flushing. Atr
Nerve gas and arterial pressure during EENT: photophobia, blurred ophine could result in CNS
organophosphate symptoms, anesthesia, when vagal vision, mydriasis. stimulation (confusion,
may repeat in 2 mg GI: dry moth, constipation, excitement) or drowsiness
increments q 3 min tiltrated to stimulation produced by intra- vomiting.
relief symptoms. abdominal surgical traction GU: urine retention. Instruct to take 30 mins before
causes a sudden decrease in Hematologic: leukocytosis meals
pulse rate and cardiac action Other: anaphylaxis
Eat foods high in fiber and
To lessen the degree of Side Effects drink plenty fluids.
atrioventricular (A-V) heart CNS: headache, excitement. Avoid
block when increased vagal CV: palpitations OTC antihistamines.
tone is a major factor in the GI: thirst, nausea. Instruct
conduction defect, as in some client not to drive a motor
cases due to digitalis vehicle or participate in
activities requiring alertness.
To overcome severe carotid Advise to
sinus reflex use hard candy, ice chips, etc.
Antidote for cardiovascular for dry mouth.
collapse from the injudicious
use of a cholinergic drug.

Contraindication
Contraindicated in patients
hypersensitive to drug and
those with acute angle closure
glaucoma, obstructive

10
uropathy, obstructive disease
of GI tract, paralytic elius,
toxic magacolon, intestinal
atony, unstable CV status in
acute hemorrhage, asthma, or
myasthenia gravis. Also
contraindicated in pregnant
women.

11
Name of the Drug Dosage/Route Action/Classification Indication/ Adverse Effects/ Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities
Contraindications
Generic Adults individualized: 2.5-15 Action Indication Adverse Effects Monitor CVP to assess
Dobutamine Hydrochloride mcg/kg/min. Enhancing the force of Short term treatment of CV: angina, hypertension, vascular volume and cardiac
myocardial contraction cardiac decompensation in hypotension, increased heart pumping efficiency.
Brand Rate of administration and organic heart disease of rate, nonspecific chest pain,
Dobutrex duration of therapy depend on  HR,  CO, and  SV cardiac surgical pressures. phlebitis, PVCs. (Elevated CVP may indicate
the response of client as with minor effects to HR. GI: nausea and vomiting. disruption on CO, as in pump
determined by HR, presence  elevated ventricular filling Contraindication Respiratory: asthma attacks, failure or
of activity, BP and urine flow pressure and helps AV node Contraindication in patients shortness of breath. Pulmonary edma; low CVP
conduction hypersensitive to drug or any Others: anaphylaxis. may indicate hypovolemia)
of its components and in those
Classification with idiopathic hypertrophic Side Effects Monitor ECG and BP
Inotropic, Adrenergic subaortic stenosis. CNS: headache continuously during drug
Musculoskeletal: mild leg administration
crams or tingling sensation.
Record I&O
M
onitor glucose in diabetes
patients

Drug is administered IV to
improve cardiac function thus
increasing BP and improving
urine output.

Report any chest pain,

increase SOB, headaches or
IV site pain.

12
Name of the Drug Dosage/Route Action/Classification Indication/ Adverse Effects/ Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities
Contraindications
Generic ADULTS Action Indication Adverse Effect Assessment
Morphine Sulfate Oral Principal opium alkaloid; acts Relief of moderate to severe CNS: Light-headedness, History: Hypersensitivity to
One-third to one-sixth as as agonist at specific opioid acute and chronic pain dizziness, sedation, euphoria, opioids; diarrhea caused by
Brand effective as parenteral receptors in the CNS to dysphoria, delirium, insomnia, poisoning; labor or delivery of
Immediate-release tablets: administration because of produce analgesia, euphoria, Preoperative medication to agitation, anxiety, fear, a premature infant; biliary
MSIR first-pass metabolism; 10– sedation; the receptors sedate and allay apprehension, hallucinations, disorientation, tract surgery or surgical
Timed-release: 30 mg q 4 hr PO. Controlled- mediating these effects are facilitate induction of drowsiness, lethargy, impaired anastomosis; head injury and
Kadian, M-Eslon (CAN), MS release: 30 mg q 8–12 hr PO thought to be the same as anesthesia, and reduce mental and physical increased intracranial
Contin, Oramorph SR or as directed by physician; those mediating the effects of anesthetic dosage performance, coma, mood pressure; acute asthma,
Oral solution: Kadian: 20–100 mg PO endogenous opioids changes, weakness, headache, COPD, cor pulmonale,
MSIR, Rescudose, Roxanol, daily–24-hr release system; (enkephalins, endorphins). Analgesic adjunct during tremor, seizures, miosis, preexisting respiratory
Roxanol T MS Contin: 200 mg PO q 12 anesthesia visual disturbances, depression; acute abdominal
Rectal suppositories: hr. suppression of cough reflex conditions, CV disease,
RMS SC and IM Classification Component of most supraventricular tachycardias,
Injection: 10 mg (5–20 mg)/70 kg q 4 hr Opioid agonist analgesic preparations that are referred CV: Facial flushing, myxedema, seizure disorders,
Astramorph PF, Duramorph, or as directed by physician. to as Brompton's cocktail or peripheral circulatory acute alcoholism, delirium
Epimorph (CAN) IV mixture, an oral alcoholic collapse, tachycardia, tremens, cerebral
Preservative-free concentrate 2.5–15 mg/70 kg of body solution that is used for bradycardia, arrhythmia, arteriosclerosis, ulcerative
for microinfusion devices for weight in 4–5 mL water for chronic severe pain, especially palpitations, chest wall colitis, fever, kyphoscoliosis,
intraspinal use: injection administered over 4– in terminal cancer patients rigidity, hypertension, Addison's disease, prostatic
Infumorph 5 min, or as directed by hypotension, orthostatic hypertrophy, urethral stricture,
physician. Continuous IV Intraspinal use with hypotension, syncope recent GI or GU surgery, toxic
infusion: 0.1–1 mg/mL in 5% microinfusion devices for the psychosis, renal or hepatic
dextrose in water by relief of intractable pain Dermatologic: Pruritus, dysfunction; pregnancy;
controlled infusion device. urticaria, Respiratory: lactation
Rectal Unlabeled use: Dyspnea laryngospasm, bronchospasm,
10–30 mg q 4 hr or as directed associated with acute left edema Physical: T; skin color,
by physician. ventricular failure and texture, lesions; orientation,
Epidural pulmonary edema GI: Nausea, vomiting, reflexes, bilateral grip
Initial injection of 5 mg in the Contraindication anorexia, biliary tract spasm; strength, affect; P,
lumbar region may provide increased colonic motility in auscultation, BP, orthostatic
pain relief for up to 24 hr. If patients with chronic BP, perfusion; R, adventitious

13
adequate pain relief is not Contraindicated with ulcerative colitis sounds; bowel sounds, normal
achieved within 1 hr, hypersensitivity to opioids; output; urinary frequency,
incremental doses of 1–2 mg diarrhea caused by poisoning GU: Ureteral spasm, spasm of voiding pattern, normal
may be given at intervals until toxins are eliminated; vesical sphincters, urinary output; ECG; EEG; thyroid,
sufficient to assess during labor or delivery of a retention or hesitancy, liver, kidney function tests
effectiveness, up to 10 mg/24 premature infant (may cross oliguria, antidiuretic effect,
hr. For continuous infusion, immature blood–brain barrier reduced libido or potency Interventions
initial dose of 2–4 mg/24 hr is more readily); after biliary Caution patient not to chew or
recommended. Further doses tract surgery or following Respiratory: crush controlled-release
of 1–2 mg may be given if surgical anastomosis; Respiratory depression, preparations.
pain relief is not achieved pregnancy; labor (respiratory apnea, circulatory
initially. depression in neonate; may depression, respiratory Dilute and administer slowly
Intrathecal prolong labor). arrest, shock, cardiac IV to minimize likelihood of
Dosage is usually one-tenth arrest adverse effects.
that of epidural dosage; a Use cautiously with head
single injection of 0.2–1 mg injury and increased Side Effects Tell patient to lie down during
may provide satisfactory pain intracranial pressure; acute GI: dry mouth, constipation. IV administration.
relief for up to 24 hr. Do not asthma, COPD, cor Skin: Tissue irritation and
inject > 2 mL of the 5 mg/10 pulmonale, preexisting induration (SC injection). Keep opioid antagonist and
mL ampule or > 1 mL of the respiratory depression, Other: sweating,physical facilities for assisted or
10 mg/10 mL ampule. Use hypoxia, hypercapnia (may tolerance and dependence, controlled respiration readily
only in the lumbar area. decrease respiratory drive and psychological dependence available during IV
Repeated intrathecal increase airway resistance); administration.
injections are not lactation (wait 4–6 hr after
recommended; use other administration to nurse the Use caution when injecting
routes if pain recurs. For baby); acute abdominal SC or IM into chilled areas or
epidural or intrathecal dosing, conditions, CV disease, in patients with hypotension
use preservative-free supraventricular tachycardias, or in shock; impaired
morphine preparations only. myxedema, seizure disorders, perfusion may delay
acute alcoholism, delirium absorption; with repeated
PEDIATRIC PATIENTS tremens, cerebral doses, an excessive amount
Do not use in premature arteriosclerosis, ulcerative may be absorbed when
infants. colitis, fever, kyphoscoliosis, circulation is restored.
SC or IM Addison's disease, prostatic Reassure patients that they are
0.05–0.2 mg/kg (up to 15 mg hypertrophy, urethral stricture, unlikely to become addicted;
per dose) q 4 hr or as directed recent GI or GU surgery, toxic most patients who receive
by physician. psychosis, renal or hepatic opioids for medical reasons do

14
 dysfunction. not develop dependence
GERIATRIC PATIENTS syndromes
OR IMPAIRED ADULTS
Use caution. Respiratory Teaching points
depression may occur in the
elderly, the very ill, those with Take this drug exactly as
respiratory problems. prescribed. Avoid alcohol,
Reduced dosage may be antihistamines, sedatives,
necessary. tranquilizers, over-the-counter
Epidural drugs.
Use extreme caution; injection
of < 5 mg in the lumbar Swallow controlled-release
region may provide adequate preparation (MS Contin,
pain relief for up to 24 hr. Oramorph SR) whole; do not
Intrathecal cut, crush, or chew them.
Use lower dosages than
recommended for adults Do not take leftover
above. medication for other disorders,
and do not let anyone else take
your prescription.

These side effects may occur:

Nausea, loss of appetite (take
with food, lie quietly);
constipation (use laxative);
dizziness, sedation,
drowsiness, impaired visual
acuity (avoid driving or
performing tasks that require
alertness and visual acuity).

Report severe nausea,

vomiting, constipation,
shortness of breath or
difficulty breathing, rash.

15