Such substances as nicotine can affect the use of medications. Drug-nicotine interactions occur with both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) products (Miller, 2019). For instance, smoking can impact such medications as analgesics and respiratory drugs (Miller, 2019). Nicotine causes changes by influencing the therapeutic action of a particular medicine. Nicotine can decrease the efficacy of analgesics and respiratory remedies due to having unpredictable and dramatic effects on the body (Lilley et al., 2020). Moreover, smoking exacerbates respiratory symptoms, can lead to tremors, and increases heart rate and blood pressure (Lilley et al., 2020). In addition to influencing medications’ usefulness, nicotine leads to changes in doses. In particular, individuals are likely to require adjusted dosages of medicine depending on their smoking patterns (Miller, 2019). The utilization of prescribed or OTC drugs alongside nicotine intake results in shifts in one’s health and may avert the effects of medications.
Addressing changes caused by smoking on the outcomes of drugs is based on several factors. Given that every patient is unique, it is important to consider each person’s diagnosis, relevant treatment approaches, history of smoking, and preferences in consuming nicotine (Lilley et al., 2020; Miller, 2019). Therefore, I would begin with my clients’ needs to determine whether they should stop using nicotine products. For example, I would search for evidence-based information relevant to each particular situation. Accordingly, I would explain to a specific patient why they should not smoke in order to enhance the treatment process and suggest ways to quit the habit if necessary. I would pay close attention to withdrawal signs and symptoms, as they may happen abruptly and may indicate more serious problems (Lilley et al., 2020). Overall, to address the impact of nicotine on my clients’ medications, I would conduct an assessment and make recommendations based on my patients’ preferences and approaches to evidence-based practice.
References
Lilley, L. L., Collins, S. R., & Snyder, J. S. (2020). Pharmacology and the nursing process (9th ed.). Elsevier.
Miller, C. A., (2019). Nursing for wellness in older adults (8th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.