Author Question: An NP prescribes azelastine for a patient who has allergic rhinitis. The NP will teach the patient ... (Read 55 times)

piesebel · **on:** Jul 24, 2018

An NP prescribes azelastine for a patient who has allergic rhinitis. The NP will teach the patient that this drug:

a. may cause a bitter aftertaste.
b. will not provide maximum relief for a few weeks.
c. will cause rebound congestion if withdrawn suddenly.
d. can cause many systemic side effects such as drowsiness.

Question 2

A patient with primary hypercholesterolemi a is taking an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. All of the patient's baseline LFTs were normal. At a 6-month follow-up visit, the patient reports occasional headache.

A lipid profile reveals a decrease of 20 in the patient's LDL cholesterol. The NP should: a. order LFTs.
b. order CK-MM tests.
c. consider decreasing the dose of the medication.
d. reassure the patient that this side effect is common.

jaygar71 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 24, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
Azelastine is a topical antihistamine with few adverse systemic side effects. Patients may experience relief from symptoms within 30 minutes. Decongestants can cause rebound congestion if withdrawn suddenly. Topical antihistamines rarely cause systemic side effects.

Answer to Question 2

D
LFTs should be performed at baseline, 12 weeks after initiation of therapy, and only periodically thereafter. Headaches are common side effects, but do not raise concern about hepatotoxicity. CK-MM tests are indicated if patients report muscle pain or weakness. It is not necessary to decrease the medication.