Question

Common preop meds: each group and drugs in each group and what they do?

Answer 1

Common preoperative medications can be grouped into different categories based on their purpose. Examples include anxiolytics/sedatives, opioids, antiemetics, anticholinergics, H2 blockers, and antibiotics.

Step-by-step explanation:

Common Preoperative Medications

Preoperative medications are given to patients before surgery to help prepare them for the procedure and to minimize complications. There are several different groups of preop medications, each serving a different purpose:

1. Anxiolytics or Sedatives: These medications reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Examples include diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan).
2. Opioids: Opioid analgesics help relieve pain and provide sedation. Common opioids used preoperatively include morphine and fentanyl.
3. Antiemetics: These medications prevent nausea and vomiting. Examples include ondansetron (Zofran) and metoclopramide (Reglan).
4. Anticholinergics: Anticholinergic drugs reduce secretions and prevent bradycardia. Atropine and glycopyrrolate are commonly used preoperatively.
5. H2 Blockers: These medications reduce gastric acid secretion, preventing aspiration during intubation. Famotidine and ranitidine are examples of H2 blockers.
6. Antibiotics: Prophylactic antibiotics may be given before surgery to prevent infection. Common antibiotics used include cefazolin and vancomycin.

These are just a few examples of the common preoperative medications used. The choice of medications will vary depending on the patient's specific needs and the type of surgery being performed.