Central Nervous System Stimulants

Amphetamines stimulate the release of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in attention, alertness, and mood, while dopamine is involved in motivation, pleasure, and reward. By increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters, amphetamines can enhance focus, increase energy, and improve mood. This makes them commonly used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Analeptics and muscle relaxants do not have this effect on norepinephrine and dopamine release.

A narcoleptic is a person who suffers from narcolepsy, a neurological disorder that affects the sleep-wake cycle. During episodes of narcolepsy, individuals may experience sudden and uncontrollable sleep attacks, causing them to fall asleep at inappropriate times and places. These episodes are often accompanied by a loss of muscle tone, known as cataplexy, which can cause the person to collapse and be temporarily unable to move. Therefore, the statement "A narcoleptic is unable to move and may collapse during episodes" is true.

Migraine headaches and cluster headaches differ in terms of the type of pain experienced. Migraines are characterized by throbbing pain, while cluster headaches are nonthrobbing. This means that the pain experienced during a migraine headache pulsates or throbs, while cluster headaches involve a constant, steady pain.

An analeptic is a type of drug that stimulates the central nervous system, increasing alertness and arousal. Theophylline and caffeine are both examples of analeptics, as they have stimulant effects on the body. However, phenylpropanolamine is not an analeptic. It is a sympathomimetic drug that is commonly used as a decongestant and appetite suppressant. While it may have some stimulant effects, it is not primarily used for its analeptic properties.

When administering Methylphenidate (Ritalin), it is important to monitor the client's weight regularly. Weight loss can be a side effect of this medication, so it is crucial to monitor for any significant changes in weight and report them to the healthcare provider. This allows for early intervention if weight loss becomes a concern. The other statements are not included in client teaching for administering Methylphenidate.

Anorexiants should be given short term (4 to 12 weeks) because of tolerance, dependence, and abuse.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by various behavioral symptoms. Inattentiveness refers to difficulty sustaining attention, being easily distracted, and having trouble organizing tasks. Inability to concentrate is closely related to inattentiveness and refers to the inability to focus on one task for a prolonged period. Impulsivity refers to acting without thinking, making hasty decisions, and having difficulty controlling impulses. These characteristic behaviors are commonly observed in individuals with ADHD and are important diagnostic criteria for the disorder.

Analeptics are primarily used to stimulate respiration. These medications help in increasing the depth and rate of breathing, making them useful in conditions where respiratory depression or failure is a concern. Analeptics are commonly used in cases of respiratory distress, such as in premature infants with underdeveloped lungs or in individuals suffering from drug overdose-induced respiratory depression. By stimulating respiration, these drugs help ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent complications associated with respiratory failure.

Triptans are the most recently developed group of drugs for the treatment of migraine headaches. They work by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain and constricting blood vessels, thereby reducing inflammation and relieving pain. Triptans are preferred over older medications like ergot alkaloids due to their higher efficacy, faster onset of action, and fewer side effects. Amphetamine-like drugs are not commonly used for migraine treatment, making triptans the correct answer.

ADHD may be caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating attention, mood, and impulse control. An imbalance in these neurotransmitters can lead to symptoms commonly associated with ADHD, including difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Research suggests that medications used to treat ADHD, such as stimulants, work by increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to restore balance and improve symptoms.

Doxapram (Dopram) is a CNS respiratory stimulant that is used to treat respiratory depression caused by drug overdose, COPD, and pre/post anesthetic respiratory depression. It helps to stimulate the respiratory centers in the brain, increasing the drive to breathe and improving respiratory function. This medication can be beneficial in cases where respiratory depression is a result of excessive drug use, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or as a complication of anesthesia.