Introduction to Pharmacology Quiz

Study Notes

Pharmacology studies drug effects on living organisms, focusing on interactions with biological systems for therapeutic outcomes.

Pharmacodynamics: Examines drug-target interactions (receptors, enzymes, ion channels) and subsequent physiological responses.
- Agonists: Activate receptors to elicit a response.
- Antagonists: Block receptors to prevent a response.
- Partial Agonists: Activate receptors partially, producing a moderate response.
Pharmacokinetics: Analyzes drug movement in the body, covering absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
- Absorption: Process of drug entering the bloodstream.
- Distribution: Transport of the drug to tissues and organs.
- Metabolism: Breakdown of drugs, primarily in the liver, into metabolites.
- Excretion: Removal of drugs and metabolites via urine or bile.

Drug Targets:
- Receptors: Proteins that interact with drugs to trigger cellular responses.
- Enzymes: Proteins that drugs can inhibit or activate to influence biochemical reactions.
- Ion Channels: Proteins that regulate ion flow across membranes, modulated by drugs.
Common Drug Classes:
- Antibiotics: Target bacterial growth.
- Antidepressants: Address depression and mood disorders.
- Antihypertensives: Aid in lowering blood pressure.
- Antipsychotics: Alleviate symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
- NSAIDs: Reduce inflammation, pain, and fever.
- Diuretics: Promote urine production for fluid removal.

Opioid Receptors Types:
- Mu (μ): Associated with pain relief and euphoria.
- Delta (δ): Modulate mood and pain relief.
- Kappa (κ): Involved in pain relief and feelings of dysphoria.
Function: Opioid receptors inhibit neurotransmitter release, lowers neuronal excitability, and diminish pain perception.

ACE Inhibitors: Block angiotensin II production, leading to vasodilation and lower blood pressure (e.g., Lisinopril, Enalapril).
Statins (HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors): Decrease cholesterol synthesis in the liver, lowering LDL levels (e.g., Atorvastatin, Simvastatin).
Calcium Channel Blockers: Relax blood vessels by blocking calcium entry, reducing blood pressure (e.g., Amlodipine, Verapamil).
Warfarin: Anticoagulant that inhibits vitamin K in clotting factor production, reducing blood clot risks.
Heparin: Rapid anticoagulant used in acute situations, administered via IV or subcutaneous routes.
Nitroglycerin: Treats angina by dilating blood vessels, increasing heart blood flow, delivered via sublingual routes.
Corticosteroids: Mimic adrenal hormones to reduce inflammation and part of immune suppression.
Bronchodilators: Expand airways for enhanced airflow in respiratory conditions, available via inhalers or nebulizers.

Adverse Effects: Unintended and often harmful effects of drugs, commonly known as side effects.
Drug Naming:
- Brand Name: Company-given name (e.g., Tylenol).
- Generic Name: Original drug designation (e.g., Acetaminophen).
- Chemical Name: Describes chemical structure of the drug.
Regulation:
- FDA: Oversees drug approval and distribution in the U.S.
- Generic Drugs: Less expensive alternatives to brand-name drugs with identical active ingredients.

Orphan Drugs: Designed for rare diseases; essential for small patient populations despite limited profitability.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drugs: Medications available without prescription for self-treatment.

Receptor Binding: Drugs bind to specific cell surface receptors, triggering intracellular reactions resulting in cellular responses.
Enzyme Inhibition or Activation: Some drugs act by inhibiting or activating the functions of enzymes within the body.