The Newer Prescription Drugs Every nurse should have some familiarity with prescription drugs, and what their purpose is. The problem with that is that new drugs can pop up by the dozens in a day, so it’s a challenge to keep up with them. New drugs are not just invented and then sold to consumers; they can go through years of testing before being approved. Once new drugs are available, unfortunately the cost can be extremely high. Depending on the patent, the generic will be developed as soon as allowed, which can be years away. Osteoporosis This condition affects women that are post-menopausal. Bones become weak and brittle, and it can have devastating effects on the body. You may notice a hump in between shoulder blades, and the pain can take a toll on day to day activities. OTymlos is a new synthetic drug derived from the human hormone protein. This particular drug designed to combat osteoporosis, and keep bones strong and healthy for a longer period of time. This Injection is generally prescribed for women over the age of 64, a doctor will discuss benefits and risks. You will always want to make note of the patient’s age, as this product is not intended for pre-menopausal women. Advanced Stage Lung Cancer Lung cancer can be devastating, not only for the patient, but for the family as well. Difficulty breathing is a very crippling situation, and anything that can improve this for patients is worth a try. Alunbrig is a new drug that is designed to treat drug-resistant non-small cell lung cancer. For many patients, prior to the release of this drug, the treatments were stopped, however there is evidence that supports this drug prolonging life. Leukemia (acute) Depending on the advancement of Leukemia, the patient can often go into remission, however for acute leukemia, this is a rare occurrence. The introduction of Rydapt is changing that. Rydapt is available in pill for only acute cases of leukemia. Related: As a Nursing Student, what Extracurricular Activities are Beneficial? Crohn’s& Ulcerative Colitis
For many young, middle aged and older adults Crohn’s disease, their lives can be put on hold when they have a flare up of the condition. Renflexis is an immune suppressant drug that is showing positive results for Crohn’s, and well as psoriasis. Renflexis is administered by injection. Severe Pain For patients suffering from certain forms of cancer, or from other extreme pain, opioids may be necessary. RoxyBond is a new form of this type. There are other drugs in this category; however this particular drug offers immediate relief from pain. This can be very beneficial for end stage cancer patients in eliminating or controlling their pain. Tardive Dyskinesia This condition affects many people that have been old seizure or psychotropic medications for some time. This condition can be very embarrassing for the patient, as it causes uncontrolled facial twitches and movements. Huntington’s Disease This condition is not curable; however with the new drug Austedo, symptoms are being more easily managed, improving quality of life. Related: The Happy Side of Nursing New drugs are put through a number of tests and studies prior to being released to the general public. For studies, people that may share the condition targeted, agree to try the medication, and accept all risks associated with the drug. Were it not for participants in the studies it would be impossible to bring drugs to the consumer, the participants in the studies are a vital part of bringing the medications to market. Always be sure to make a notation of any allergies that the patient may have. If they are being prescribed a new form of medication, a double check for allergies, or reactions to medication already being prescribed. If available, provide the patient with any applicable literature. Remind the patient to ask the prescribing physicians any questions. Prescribed drugs can make a person more comfortable, and in many case’s correct or reverse a condition, so it is imperative the patient understands the proper use and dosage for their prescription. Related: International Nurses Association - What's Your Superpower? Tshirt Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter