Basic Pharmacology Drugs
Basic Principles Study of drugs Actions Dosage Therapeutic uses (indications) Adverse effects
Directly linked to the pathophysiology of a particular disease Drug = a substance that alters biologic activity in a person May be from natural sources Plants, animals, microorganisms May be synthesized
Drugs may be prescribed to: Promote healing Cure disease Control or slow progression of disease Prevent disease Decrease risk of complications Increase comfort level Reduce excessive activity in the body sedative
Drug Effects Therapeutic or desired action Stimulating or inhibiting cell function or block the effects of biochemicals in the tissues antihistamine Physical or mechanical action laxative
Unwanted effects on the body Mild- side effects Antihistamines may cause dry mouth Dangerous or cause tissue damage, or are life threateningadverse or toxic effects Excessive bleeding
Over the counter OTC Drugs that an individual can purchase without a note from their doctor. Prescription Still recommended that a doctor be consulted when there are other medical conditions or prescriptions being taken The note that the doctor writes that details the dosage and instructions
Adverse effects Hypersensitivity or allergic reactions Rash to anaphylaxis Patient should stop taking the drug and the physician should be contacted
Idiosyncratic Unusual or unexpected reactions to drugs Example excessive excitement after taking a sedative
Iatrogenic Negative effects on the body due to: medication error, drug overdose or unusual response
Teratogenic Harmful effects on the fetus leading to developmental defects
Interactions Drug s effect is modified by combining it with: another drug Food Other substance Aspirin Antacids alcohol
Synergism When the combination increases the effects of what has been taken Can be life threatening Antagonism When the combination of drugs decreases the effects The presence of an antagonist prevents the patient from receiving the beneficial action of a drug REQUIRED AS AN ANTIDOTE
Administration of drugs Dosage Amount of drug required to produce the specific desired effect in an adult Usually expressed by weight or measure and a time factor (number of times per day)
Administration of Drugs Loading dose A large first dose or first dose by injection to reach effective drug levels quickly Dosage Important to maintain effective blood levels
Administration of Drugs Based upon Absorption Transport in the blood Half-life of the particular drug More is NOT Better! It may be toxic!
Major routes for drug administration Oral Parenteral (injection) Other methods Inhalation Brochodilator, absorption into blood Topical rectal
Some drugs may only be administered through one route Insulin Would be destroyed by gastric enzymes if ingested
Generic Names Unique official simple name for a specific drug Considered easy to remember accurately and used in many circumstances
Trade Names Proprietary name or Brand name A trademark name assigned by a single manufacturer and to be used ONLY be that manufacturer EXAMPLE: Generic name hydrocortisone Trade Names: Cortaid, Synacort, Hydrocortone
Food and Drug Administration FDA Regulates the production, labeling, distribution, and other aspects of drug control
Placebo Something used in clinical research Given to the control group Lacks the active ingredient that is being tested in the study