Nurses Compass
Drug Guide
Rescinnamine
Classification
Therapeutic: Antihypertensive
Pharmacological: Alpha-adrenergic blocker, Cinnamic acid derivative
FDA Approved Indications
- Hypertension
Mechanism of Action
Rescinnamine blocks alpha-adrenergic receptors in blood vessels, leading to vasodilation and decreased blood pressure. It may also inhibit the release of norepinephrine, contributing to antihypertensive effects.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typically 25-50 mg twice daily, adjusted based on response. Can be increased gradually.
Pediatric: Not commonly used in pediatric patients, dosage to be determined by physician based on weight and age.
Geriatric: Start at lower doses due to increased sensitivity and potential comorbidities.
Renal Impairment: Use with caution; dosage adjustment may be necessary.
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor closely.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration.
Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues, crosses the blood-brain barrier.
Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver.
Excretion: Excreted mainly in urine and feces.
Half Life: Approximately 3-6 hours.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to rescinnamine or other phenylethylamine derivatives.
- Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Precautions
- Use cautiously in patients with cardiovascular disease, hepatic or renal impairment, or cerebrovascular disease.
- Not recommended during pregnancy or lactation unless benefit outweighs risk.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Postural hypotension (Common)
- Dizziness (Common)
- Headache (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Arrhythmias (Uncommon)
- Nasal congestion (Uncommon)
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (Uncommon)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Other antihypertensives, especially adding to risk of hypotension.
- CNS depressants may enhance sedative effect.
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor blood pressure regularly, assess for signs of hypotension or adverse reactions.
Diagnoses:
- Ineffective tissue perfusion related to hypotension.
- Risk for falls due to dizziness or orthostatic hypotension.
Implementation: Administer as prescribed, monitor vitals during titration.
Evaluation: Assess effectiveness in lowering blood pressure and observe for adverse effects.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying position to minimize orthostatic hypotension.
- Take medication exactly as prescribed.
- Report any dizziness, headache, or signs of allergic reaction.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings: N/A
Genetic Factors: None specific.
Lab Test Interference: May interfere with urinary catecholamine tests.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Severe hypotension, dizziness, tachycardia.
Treatment: Supportive care, vasopressors if necessary, activated charcoal if ingestion was recent, gastric lavage in severe cases.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.
Stability: Stable for 2-3 years when stored properly.