Commonly Prescribed Drugs

Pharmacologic Profile

General Use

Sedatives are used to provide sedation, usually prior to procedures. Hypnotics are used to manage insomnia. Selected agents are useful as anticonvulsants (diazepam, phenobarbital), skeletal muscle relaxants (diazepam), adjuncts in the management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, oxazepam), or as amnestics (midazolam, diazepam).

General Action and Information

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity. Should not be used in comatose patients or in those with pre-existing CNS depression. Should not be used in patients with uncontrolled severe pain. Avoid use during pregnancy or lactation.

Precautions

Use cautiously in patients with hepatic impairment, severe renal impairment, or severe underlying pulmonary disease. Use with caution in patients who may be suicidal or who may have had previous drug addictions. Hypnotic use should be short-term. Older adults may be more sensitive to CNS depressant effects; dosage ↓ may be required.

Interactions

Additive CNS depression with alcohol, antihistamines, some antidepressants, opioid analgesics, or phenothiazines. Should not be used with MAO inhibitors.

Nursing Implications

Assessment

• Monitor BP, HR, and respiratory rate frequently throughout IV administration.
• Prolonged high-dose therapy may lead to psychological or physical dependence. Restrict the amount of drug available to patient, especially if patient is depressed, suicidal, or has a history of addiction.
• Insomnia: Assess sleep patterns before and periodically throughout course of therapy.
• Seizures: Observe and record intensity, duration, and characteristics of seizure activity. Institute seizure precautions.
• Muscle Spasms: Assess muscle spasms, associated pain, and limitation of movement before and throughout therapy.
• Alcohol Withdrawal: Assess patient experiencing alcohol withdrawal for tremors, agitation, delirium, and hallucinations. Protect patient from injury.

Implementation

• Supervise ambulation and transfer of patients following administration of hypnotic doses. Side rails should be raised and call bell within reach at all times. Keep bed in low position.

Patient/Family Teaching

• Discuss the importance of preparing the environment for sleep (dark room, quiet, avoidance of nicotine and caffeine). If less effective after a few weeks, consult health care provider; do not ↑ dose. Gradual withdrawal may be required to prevent reactions following prolonged therapy.
• May cause daytime drowsiness. Caution patient to avoid driving and other activities requiring alertness until response to medication is known.
• Advise patient to avoid the use of alcohol and other CNS depressants concurrently with these medications.
• Advise patient to inform health care provider if pregnancy is planned or suspected.

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

• Improvement in sleep patterns.
• Control of seizures.
• Decrease in muscle spasms.
• More rational ideation when used for alcohol withdrawal.