Respiratory Drugs and Medications Q 15
Daniel has vertigo, which antihistamine is best for his condition?
A. Terfenadine
B. Meclizine
C. Hydrocodone
D. Guaifenesin
Correct Answer: B. Meclizine
Meclizine (Antivert) is given for vertigo and motion sickness. Meclizine, an FDA- approved drug, is a first-generation antihistamine used for the symptomatic management of motion sickness. These symptoms include dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. It also treats vertigo symptoms caused by vestibular diseases that commonly affect the inner ear, such as Meniere’s disease. Meclizine is a first-generation antihistamine (non-selective H1 antagonist). It also has central anticholinergic actions. The blocking actions on these receptors give meclizine its antiemetic and antivertigo properties. This blocking effect occurs in the vomiting center and chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) located in the medulla. Choices C and D are not antihistamines.
Option A: Terfenadine is an antihistamine, but meclizine is the standard drug in the treatment of vertigo. Terfenadine was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1998. Terfenadine is an antihistamine. Antihistamines prevent sneezing runny nose, itching and watering of the eyes, and other allergic symptoms. Terfenadine is used to treat allergies, hives (urticaria), and other allergic inflammatory conditions.
Option C: Hydrocodone is a schedule II semi-synthetic opioid medication used to treat pain. Immediate-release (IR) hydrocodone is available as a combination product (combined with acetaminophen, ibuprofen, etc.) and is FDA approved for the management of pain severe enough to require an opioid analgesic and for which alternative (non-opioid) treatments are inadequate.
Option D: Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It helps loosen congestion in the chest and throat, making it easier to cough out through the mouth. Guaifenesin is used to reduce chest congestion caused by the common cold, infections, or allergies.