Prescription Drugs and Pharmacology

Prescription Drugs

• Definition: Legally available drugs that are prescribed by a licensed medical professional to treat a specific medical condition.
• Characteristics:
  • Require a prescription from a doctor or other authorized healthcare provider.
  • Typically have a proven therapeutic effect and are considered safe when used as directed.
  • Examples: antibiotics, antidepressants, painkillers, and blood pressure medications.

Pharmacology

• Definition: The study of the effects of drugs on the body.
• Branches:
  • Pharmacokinetics: Study of the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of drugs.
  • Pharmacodynamics: Study of the effects of drugs on the body, including their mechanism of action and therapeutic effects.
• Key concepts:
  • Bioavailability: The extent to which a drug is absorbed and becomes available in the body.
  • Half-life: The time it takes for the concentration of a drug in the body to decrease by half.

Substance Abuse

• Definition: The use of a drug in a manner that is harmful to the individual or others.
• Types of substance abuse:
  • Dependence: Physical or psychological need for a drug.
  • Addiction: Compulsive drug use despite negative consequences.
  • Misuse: Using a drug for a purpose other than its intended medical use.
• Warning signs:
  • Increased tolerance
  • Withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped
  • Loss of control over drug use
  • Neglect of responsibilities and relationships

Recreational Drugs

• Definition: Drugs used for non-medical purposes, often for their psychoactive effects.
• Examples:
  • Illicit drugs: Cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamine.
  • Legal drugs: Alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine.
• Risks:
  • Addiction
  • Impaired judgment and decision-making
  • Increased risk of accidents and injuries
  • Legal consequences

Drug Interactions

• Definition: The effect of one drug on the action of another drug.
• Types of interactions:
  • Synergistic: The effect of two drugs is greater than the sum of their individual effects.
  • Antagonistic: The effect of one drug is reduced or blocked by another drug.
  • Additive: The effect of two drugs is equal to the sum of their individual effects.
• Factors that influence drug interactions:
  • Pharmacokinetics
  • Pharmacodynamics
  • Patient factors (e.g. age, weight, liver function)
  • Drug characteristics (e.g. dosage, frequency of administration)

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