Key Antibiotics Test Tips and Guidance

Oct 5, 2024

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Lecture Notes: Antibiotics Test Tips

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Six Top Test Tips for Antibiotics

  1. Finish the Medication

    • Prevents super infections like C. diff or MRSA.
    • Key phrase: "Take until all the medication is finished."

  2. Accidental Pregnancy

    • Applies to '-cillins' (e.g., penicillin) and '-cyclines' (e.g., doxycycline).
    • Oral contraceptives are ineffective; use additional contraception.

  3. No Alcohol

    • Antibiotics and alcohol stress the liver.

  4. No Food

    • For MTF: Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin), Tetracyclines, Fluoroquinolones (e.g., levofloxacin).
    • Take on an empty stomach with water.

  5. No Sun

    • Avoid sun exposure.
    • Drugs: Fluoroquinolones, Tetracyclines, Sulfa drugs (e.g., trimethoprim).
    • Photosensitivity leads to risk of sunburn.

  6. Super Toxic to Kidneys and Ears

    • '-mycin' drugs (e.g., vancomycin, gentamicin).
    • Monitor peaks and troughs to prevent autotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.
    • Signs: Vertigo, tinnitus, increasing creatinine or BUN levels.

Broad Spectrum Antibiotics

  • Cillins and Sporins
    • Mechanism: Weaken bacterial cell wall.
    • Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe.
    • Penicillin may cause accidental pregnancy.
    • Cross-sensitivity between cillins and sporins (e.g., check allergies).

Specific Drug Information

  • Vancomycin

    • Used for MRSA and C. diff.
    • Monitor for Red Man Syndrome and anaphylaxis.

  • Aminoglycosides

    • Used for infections, cystic fibrosis.
    • Monitor for nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity.

  • Macrolides

    • Prolonged QT interval and hepatotoxicity.
    • Monitor ECG and liver function tests.

  • Tetracyclines

    • Not safe in pregnancy.
    • Use sunscreen to prevent sunburn.

  • Metronidazole (Flagyl)

    • Treats C. diff and STIs.
    • Avoid alcohol, monitor for rash.

  • Sulfonamides

    • Treats UTIs.
    • Monitor for sunburn, urine crystals, and need for hydration.

  • Fluoroquinolones

    • Avoid sun; risk of Achilles tendon rupture.

Important Patient Education

  • Always finish the full course of antibiotics.
  • Use additional contraception with certain antibiotics.
  • Avoid sun, alcohol, and certain foods as directed.
  • Report symptoms of toxicity immediately.

Exam Focus

  • Common questions on cross-sensitivity and allergic reactions.
  • Importance of assessment before intervention.
  • Monitoring for specific toxic effects and interactions.

This summary provides a high-level overview of important test tips and patient education related to antibiotics, with a focus on common exam questions and clinical considerations.