A patient has begun taking the antihistamine astemizole ...

[j.rubin]

A patient has begun taking the antihistamine astemizole (Hismanal). Which of the following anti-biotics should not be used to treat a concurrent respiratory infection?
 
  a. Cefamandole
  b. Penicillin
  c. Erythromycin
  d. Tetracycline

Question 2

A patient reports feeling drowsy after taking a first-generation antihistamine. Which statement is the most appropriate response for the health care provider to give the patient?
 
  a. The drowsiness will probably worsen over time.
  b. This effect can be reversed by taking a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant at the same time.
  c. The patient should not take any further doses of this drug.
  d. Tolerance to the drowsiness should develop within a few days or weeks.

[Sassygurl126]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Arrhythmias usually appear with excessive antihistamine dosages but have been reported with concurrent use of macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin), imidazole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), and other drugs that inhibit the cytochrome CYP450 system, as well as in patients with severe hepatic disease. Accordingly, histamine1 (H1) antagonists are relatively contraindicated for use in patients with liver disease or those who may be receiving macrolide antibiotics or imidazole antifungal drugs.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Drowsiness is more common with first-generation histamine1 (H1) antagonists than with sec-ond-generation drugs and is characterized by slowed reaction times, diminished alertness, and drowsiness in 20 of patients. Impaired performance occurs whether or not the patient feels drowsy. This is particularly of concern in older adults, who are at high risk for falls. Fortunately, tolerance to the sedative effect of H1 antagonists often develops within a few days or weeks.

[j.rubin]

TY

[Sassygurl126]

You're welcome