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June 26, 2025June 25, 2025

Lotrisone (Clotrimazole/Betamethasone) Pharmacology

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Lotrisone is a topical cream that contains a combination of clotrimazole, an antifungal, and betamethasone dipropionate, a corticosteroid.

It is used to treat fungal skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm that also involve inflammation or itching.

Clotrimazole works by disrupting the fungal cell membrane, while betamethasone reduces redness, swelling, and itching.

Lotrisone should not be used on the face, groin, or underarms for extended periods due to the risk of skin thinning and other steroid-related side effects.

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Meded101 Guide to Nursing Pharmacology (Amazon Highly Rated)

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June 19, 2025June 1, 2025

Fluphenazine Pharmacology

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Fluphenazine is a high-potency typical antipsychotic that primarily acts as a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist in the mesolimbic pathway, reducing positive symptoms of schizophrenia.

Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), such as dystonia, akathisia, and parkinsonism, are common due to potent D2 blockade in the nigrostriatal pathway.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), though rare, is a life-threatening adverse effect characterized by rigidity, hyperthermia, altered mental status, and autonomic instability.

CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine) can increase fluphenazine plasma concentrations, potentially raising the risk of toxicity and side effects.

Concomitant use of fluphenazine with CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines) can enhance sedation and respiratory depression.

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Meded101 Guide to Nursing Pharmacology (Amazon Highly Rated)

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June 12, 2025May 31, 2025

Quinapril Pharmacology

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On this podcast episode, I discuss quinapril pharmacology, adverse effects, drug interactions, pharmacokinetics, and much more.

Quinapril is a prodrug that is converted in the liver to its active metabolite, quinaprilat, which inhibits ACE, leading to decreased formation of angiotensin II and reduced aldosterone secretion.

Hyperkalemia can occur with quinapril use due to decreased aldosterone, leading to potassium retention—especially in patients with renal impairment.

Concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements with quinapril increases the risk of hyperkalemia.

NSAIDs may reduce the antihypertensive effect of quinapril and increase the risk of nephrotoxicity, especially in patients with preexisting renal dysfunction.

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June 5, 2025May 29, 2025

Nifedipine Pharmacology

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Nifedipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that selectively inhibits L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, leading to vasodilation and reduced peripheral vascular resistance.

The extended-release formulation of nifedipine provides more stable plasma concentrations and is preferred for chronic management of hypertension and angina.

Common adverse effects include headache, flushing, peripheral edema, and dizziness, all related to its vasodilatory action.

Nifedipine undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver, primarily via CYP3A4 enzymes, which significantly influences its bioavailability and potential drug interactions.

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, grapefruit juice) can increase plasma levels of nifedipine, raising the risk of hypotension and adverse effects.

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May 29, 2025May 27, 2025

Clotrimazole Pharmacology

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On this podcast episode, I discuss Clotrimazole pharmacology, adverse effects, indications, administration, and much more.

Clotrimazole is an imidazole antifungal that exerts its pharmacological effect by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes. This inhibition compromises membrane integrity, leading to leakage of cellular contents and ultimately fungal cell death.

Clotrimazole is primarily used topically due to poor systemic absorption when administered via the skin or mucous membranes, which limits systemic side effects.

When clotrimazole is used intravaginally or orally in lozenge form, localized concentrations are sufficient to treat mucocutaneous infections without significant systemic exposure.

Pay attention when clotrimazole is used frequently to treat Candida infections as corticosteroids, immunosuppression, and antibiotics may increase the risk of this type of infection.

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May 22, 2025May 14, 2025

Irbesartan Pharmacology

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Irbesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used primarily for the management of hypertension and diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetes.

It selectively inhibits the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor found in vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland. This blockade results in vasodilation, reduced aldosterone secretion, decreased sodium and water retention, and ultimately lower blood pressure.

Irbesartan is administered orally, with a typical starting dose of 150 mg once daily, which may be increased to 300 mg depending on the patient’s clinical response and tolerability.

Adverse effects of irbesartan are generally mild but can include hyperkalemia and dizziness. Hypotension may occur, especially in volume-depleted individuals or those on diuretics.

Routine monitoring of renal function and serum potassium is recommended, especially in patients with underlying kidney disease or those taking potassium-sparing agents or supplements.

Irbesartan is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the risk of fetal toxicity and should be discontinued as soon as pregnancy is detected.

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May 15, 2025May 14, 2025

Benzonatate Pharmacology Podcast

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On this episode, I discuss benzonatate pharmacology, adverse reactions, and much more.

Tessalon Pearls (benzonatate) are a non-narcotic antitussive commonly prescribed to relieve dry, non-productive coughs.

Benzonatate acts by numbing stretch receptors in the respiratory tract, lungs, and pleura, which helps suppress the cough reflex at its source. Unlike opioid-based cough suppressants, it doesn’t work in the brain’s cough center.

The usual adult dose is 100 to 200 mg taken orally three times a day as needed, with a maximum daily dose of 600 mg.

One of the most critical points is that the capsules must be swallowed whole. Chewing, sucking, or crushing them can cause numbness in the mouth and throat, leading to a risk of choking or aspiration.

There are no major drug interactions associated with benzonatate.

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May 8, 2025May 5, 2025

Polyethylene Glycol (Miralax) Pharmacology

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On this episode of the Real Life Pharmacology podcast, I discuss Miralax (polyethylene glycol) pharmacology, adverse effects, and much more.

MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative commonly used to treat occasional constipation by retaining water in the stool to increase stool frequency and soften consistency.

The standard adult dose of MiraLAX is 17 grams (approximately one heaping tablespoon) dissolved in 4 to 8 ounces of liquid once daily.

Electrolyte imbalances are rare but possible with prolonged or excessive use of Miralax, particularly in elderly or renal-impaired patients.

Advise patients to maintain adequate hydration while using MiraLAX to support its mechanism and reduce side effects.

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Meded101 Guide to Nursing Pharmacology (Amazon Highly Rated)

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