A patient with angina who is taking ranolazine [Ranexa] has developed a respiratory infection and a dysrhythmia. The provider has ordered azithromycin [Zithromax] for the infection and amlodipine for the dysrhythmia. A nursing student caring for this patient tells the nurse that the patient's heart rate is 70 beats per minute,and the blood pressure is 128/80 mm Hg. The nurse asks the student to discuss the plan for this patient's care. Which action is correct?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Agents that inhibit CYP3A4 can increase levels of ranolazine and also the risk of torsades de pointes. Macrolide antibiotics,such as azithromycin,are CYP3A4 inhibitors. Respiratory toxicity is not an expected effect with this patient. The patient's blood pressure is not elevated enough to notify the provider. Amlodipine is the only CCB that should be used with ranolazine.

A Patient with Angina Who Is Taking Ranolazine [Ranexa] Has