chapter 21 Flashcards
What are the various subspecialty areas of pharmacology?
- Medicinal chemistry
- Molecular pharmacology
- Chemotherapy
- Toxicology
These subspecialties focus on different aspects of drug development and effects.
Define pharmacodynamics.
Study of a drug’s effects in the body
This includes understanding how drugs interact with receptors and produce their effects.
Define pharmacokinetics.
Study of a drug’s absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion over a period
This is crucial for determining the appropriate dosing and timing of medications.
What is the chemical name of a drug?
Exact chemical makeup
This name describes the molecular structure of the drug.
What is the generic name of a drug?
Legal and scientific name
This is the non-proprietary name of the drug.
What is the brand name of a drug?
Trademark of drug manufacturer
This name is used for marketing purposes.
List the various routes of drug administration.
- Oral
- Sublingual
- Rectal
- Intracavitary
- Intradermal
- Intramuscular
- Intrathecal
- Intravenous
- Subcutaneous
- Inhalation
- Topical
Each route has specific applications and absorption characteristics.
What does the term ‘synergistic action’ refer to?
Combination of two drugs causes an effect that is greater than the sum of the individual effects of each drug alone
This can enhance therapeutic outcomes.
What are side effects?
Adverse reaction, usually minor, that routinely results from use of a drug
These are often tolerable and reversible upon discontinuation of the drug.
Define addiction in pharmacology.
Physical and psychological dependence on and craving for a drug
This can lead to significant health and social issues.
What is an antidote?
Agent given to counteract an unwanted effect of a drug
Antidotes are crucial in cases of drug toxicity.
What is the role of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)?
U.S. government agency with legal responsibility to enforce proper drug manufacture and clinical use
The FDA ensures drug safety and efficacy.
What does iatrogenic mean?
Condition caused by treatment given by physicians or medical personnel
This term highlights the potential risks of medical interventions.
What are controlled substances?
Drugs that produce tolerance and dependence and have potential for abuse or addiction
These drugs are strictly regulated.
List some classes of drugs.
- Analgesics
- Anesthetics
- Antibiotics and antivirals
- Anticoagulants
- Anticonvulsants
- Antidepressants
- Antidiabetics
- Antihistamines
- Antiosteoporosis
- Cardiovascular
- Endocrine
- Gastrointestinal
- Respiratory
- Sedative-hypnotics
- Stimulants
- Tranquilizers
Each class has distinct therapeutic uses and mechanisms of action.
What is ‘tolerance’ in pharmacology?
Larger and larger drug doses must be given to achieve the desired effect
This phenomenon often leads to increased risk of overdose.
What does the term ‘contraindications’ refer to?
Factors that prevent the use of a drug or treatment
Recognizing contraindications is essential for patient safety.
What is the meaning of the abbreviation ‘PDR’?
Physicians’ Desk Reference
This is a reference book that lists drug products.
Fill in the blank: The combination of two drugs giving less than an additive effect is called _______.
antagonistic action
Understanding this concept is important for drug interactions.
What is the significance of the United States Pharmacopeia (USP)?
Authoritative list of drugs, formulas, and preparations that sets a standard for drug manufacturing and dispensing
The USP ensures quality and consistency in pharmaceuticals.
True or False: Anaphylaxis is a common side effect of drugs.
False
Anaphylaxis is an exaggerated hypersensitivity reaction and is considered an idiosyncratic reaction.
