Pharmacology And Therapeutics Flashcards

(847 cards)

1
Q

What two nervous systems make up the autonomic nervous system?

A

Sympathetic

Parasympathetic

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

What effect does the autonomic nervous system have on pupillary constriction?

A

Sympathetic- pupil dilates to increase sensory info

Parasympathetic- pupil constricts

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What nervous system controls the cephalic and gastric phases of gastric secretions?

A

Parasympathetic nervous system

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

At rest, which nervous system is in control or basal heart rate? How?

A

Parasympathetic nervous system

Baroreceptors stimulate PNS but also inhibit SNS

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

What is the structure of neurones in the parasympathetic nervous system?

A

Long preganglionic fibres and short post ganglionic fibres

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

What neurotransmitter is used in the parasympathetic nervous system?

A

Acetylcholine

Cholinergic

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What neurotransmitter is used in the sympathetic nervous system?

A

Noradrenaline (adrenaline) and acetylcholine

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

Describe the divergence of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system

A

Sympathetic- coordinated response, very divergent, up to 1:20 pre vs post
Parasympathetic- discrete/ localised, little divergence, 1:1 pre vs post

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What neurotransmitter is used in the somatic nervous system?

A

Acetylcholine

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

What receptors are found in the parasympathetic nervous system? Where are they located?

A

Muscarinic on the synapse and nicotinic on the effector organ

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

What type of receptor is the nicotinic receptor?

A

Type 1 ionotropic receptor (Ligand-gated ion channel)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

What type of receptor is a muscarinic receptor?

A

G-protein coupled receptor

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What neurotransmitter activates nicotinic receptors?

A

Acetylcholine

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What neurotransmitter stimulates muscarinic receptors?

A

Acetylcholine

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

If you block nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in an individual at rest what would the effects be?

A

Parasympathetic nervous system is prevalent so blocks PNS activity resulting in increased heart rate and decreased gut activity

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What effect would blockade of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors have on heart rate during exercise?

A

Sympathetic nervous system is dominant during exercise so when blocked heart rate will decrease

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

What are the different types of muscarinic receptor and their location?

A

M1- Neural (forebrain- learning & memory)
M2- Cardiac (brain- inhibitory autoreceptors)
M3- Exocrine & smooth muscle (Hypothalamus- food intake)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What receptor is the fastest? What type of receptor is this?

A

Nicotinic receptors which are ionotropic (type 1)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

Which muscarinic receptors are stimulatory and which receptors are inhibitory?

A

M1 and M3 are stimulatory

M2 is inhibitory

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

What are the different types of adrenoceptor?

A

α1, α2, β1 and β2

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

Where are muscarinic receptors found?

A

Found at all effector organs innervated by postganglionic parasympathetic fibres (including sweat glands)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

Where are nicotinic receptors found?

A

Found at all autonomic ganglia

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

Where are adrenoceptors found?

A

Found at all effector organs innervated by postganglionic sympathetic fibres

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

What type of receptor is an adrenoceptor?

A

A G-protein coupled (type 2) receptor

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
What neurotransmitter stimulates adrenoceptors?
Adrenaline or noradrenaline
26
Blockade of which receptor would induce an increased heart rate and a reduction in sweat production during exercise?
Muscarinic receptors
27
What enzymes facilitates the reuptake of acetylcholine in the parasympathetic nervous system?
Acetylcholinesterase
28
What two components are used to produce acetylcholine?
Acetyl CoA + Choline
29
What is converted to DOPA to produce dopamine?
Tyrosine
30
Blockade of which target would cause the most significant rise in synaptic noradrenaline concentrations?
Uptake 1 transport proteins
31
What is pharmacokinetics?
The effect of the body on the drug
32
What is pharmacodynamics?
The effect of the drug on the body
33
What are the different drug target sites?
1) Receptors 2) Ion channels 3) Transport Systems 4) Enzymes
34
Give an example of a drug which acts on a receptor?
Atropine
35
What effect does atropine have on a receptor and which receptor does it act on?
It is a muscarine antagonist
36
What are the two type of ion channel which drugs act on?
1) Voltage sensitive ion channels | 2) Receptor-linked ion channels
37
Give two examples of drugs which act on ion channels
1) Local anaesthetics | 2) Calcium channel blockers
38
Give an example of a drug which acts on transport systems
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
39
How do tricyclic antidepressants work?
They slow down the transporter which elevates the amount of noradrenaline in the synapse
40
What are the different mechanisms by which drugs can interact with enzymes? (3)
1) Enzyme inhibitors 2) False substrates 3) Prodrugs
41
Give an example of an enzyme inhibitor
Anticholinesterases (e.g. neostigmine)
42
Give an example of a false drug. How does it work?
Methyldopa- an antihypertensive drug | It takes the place of dopa and follows the same pathway producing false product
43
What is a prodrug?
A drug which needs to be metabolised to produce it's active form, to allow it to work
44
Give an example of a prodrug
Chloral hydrate which is converted into trichloroethanol
45
How does plasma protein binding influence the amount of drug in the circulation?
It is not a drug binding site but it allows a free reservoir of the drug in the blood
46
What does the potency of a drug depend on?
The affinity and the efficacy of the drug
47
Give an example of a muscarinic and nicotinic antagonist
Muscarinic- Atropine | Nicotinic- Hexamethonium
48
What is a full agonist drug?
A drug which produces the maximal response from a cell
49
What is a partial agonist drug?
A drug which can be an agonist and an antagonist at some time
50
What is the affinity and efficacy of antagonists?
They have affinity but no efficacy
51
What are the two types of receptor antagonist?
1) Competitive | 2) Irreversible
52
How do competitive antagonists work and what effect do they have on the dose-response curve?
They bind to the same site as agonists. they shift the D-R curve to the right
53
How do irreversible antagonists work?
They bind tightly or at different sites
54
A drug acting as an inhibitor at a particular drug target site prevents the removal of neurotransmitter from the synapse. What type of drug target is this drug acting on?
Transport protein
55
What are the different types of drug antagonism? (4)
1) Receptor blockade 2) Physiological antagonism 3) Chemical antagonism 4) Pharmacokinetic antagonsim
56
Give an example of physiological antagonism. How does it work?
Different receptors produce opposite effects in the same tissue. e.g. Noradrenaline and histamine on blood pressure
57
How does chemical antagonism work? Give an example.
The drug reduces the concentration of an agonist by forming chemical complexes e.g. Dimercaprol which forms heavy metal complexes (chelating agent)
58
How does a pharmacokinetic antagonist work? What are some possible actions of the drug? Give an example
An antagonist which decreases the concentration of active drug at the site of action. Can decrease absorption, increase metabolism, increase excretion e.g. barbiturates
59
What is drug tolerance? Give an example of a drug which you become tolerant to.
The gradual decrease in responsiveness to a drug with repeated administration (days/weeks) e.g. diazepam (benzodiazepines) for epilepsy. Stops seizures at low doses
60
What are the different mechanisms by which you become tolerant of a drug? (5)
1) Pharmacokinetic factors 2) Loss of receptors 3) Change in receptors 4) Exhaustion of mediated stores 5) Physiological adaptation
61
How do pharmacokinetic factors contribute to drug tolerance? Give an example
Causes increased rate of metabolism of the drug | e.g. barbiturates: alcohol
62
How does a loss of receptors contribute to drug tolerance? Give an example
Receptors are down-regulated by membrane endocytosis | e.g. β-adrenoceptors
63
How does a change in receptors contribute to drug tolerance? Give an example
Receptor desensitisation from a conformational change in the receptor e.g. nicotinic ACh receptor at the neuromuscular junction
64
Give an example of a drug which leads to tolerance by exhaustion of mediated stores
Amphetamine | Enters the brain and is taken up into the presynaptic neurone and increases release of noradrenaline in the brain
65
How does physiological adaptation cause drug tolerance?
It is homeostatic response where tolerance to the drug side effects occurs, e.g. you lose drowsiness or nausea
66
What are the four types of receptor families?
1) Ion-channel linked receptors 2) G-protein coupled receptors 3) Kinase-linked type 4) Intracellular steroid type receptors
67
Which receptor family initiates the fastest response?
Type 1 ion-channel linked receptors
68
Which receptor family is the most useful for therapeutically useful drugs?
Type 2 G-protein coupled receptors
69
What type of antagonism is utilised by anti-venom?
Chemical antagonism
70
Which form of tolerance would not involve any changes in the cells that mediate the euphoric effects of drugs of abuse (heroin and cocaine)?
Increased metabolic degradation
71
What is the journey of a drug through the body?
``` Administration Absorption Distribution Metabolism Excretion ```
72
What are the different methods of administration of a drug? (4)
Local Systemic Enteral Parenteral
73
What is the most rapid and effective way to administer a drug?
Intravenously
74
How do drug molecules move around the body?
1) Bulk flow transfer (i.e. in the bloodstream) | 2) Diffusional transfer (i.e. molecule by molecule over short distances)
75
Drugs have to traverse both aqueous and lipid environments in the body. How do they cross these barriers?
1) Diffusing through lipid 2) Diffusing through aqueous pores in the lipid 3) Carrier molecules 4) Pinocytosis
76
What is the polarity of substances that can freely penetrate lipid membranes?
Non-polar
77
What is ion-trapping?
Where ions become trapped in the blood due to pH. Ionised and unionised form of the drug is in a dynamic equilibrium which causes slow release of the drug.
78
What factors influence drug distribution?
1) Regional blood flow 2) Extracellular binding 3) Capillary permeability 4) Localisation in tissues
79
How does regional blood flow affect the distribution of a drug?
Amount of blood flowing to different tissues varies when at rest compared to during strenuous exercise e.g. when exercising more blood (and drug) will be delivered to the muscles
80
How does extracellular binding affect the distribution of a drug?
If a drug is heavily bound to plasma proteins you would have to administer higher doses of the drug to have an effect. Ionised drugs can move through the H₂O filled gap junctions
81
How does capillary permeability affect the distribution of a drug?
Capillary permeability is dependent upon the organ in question
82
What are the two main organs involved in excretion of a drug?
Kidneys and Liver
83
Where are drugs secreted and reabsorbed in the kidneys?
In the proximal tubule acids and bases are actively secreted | In the proximal and distal tubules lipid soluble drugs are reabsorbed
84
How are drugs excreted through the liver?
Biliary excretion- large molecular weight molecules can concentrate Active transport systems- into bile (bile acids and glucuronides) Drugs become trapped in bile and are deposited in the intestines to be excreted in the faeces, or they are reabsorbed into the blood and excreted in the urine
85
What is enterohepatic cycling?
Drugs (or metabolites) are excreted into the gut (via bile) then reabsorbed and taken to the liver and excreted again (via bile). This leads to drug persistence
86
What is bioavailability?
The proportion of the administered drug that is available within the body to exert it's pharmacological effect The amount of drug that appears in the circulation after it has left the liver
87
What is a biological half-life?
The time taken for the concentration of drug in the blood/plasma to fall to half of it's original value
88
What is clearance?
The blood clearance is the volume of blood (plasma) cleared of a drug in a unit of time
89
Which of the following drugs would be least likely to penetrate lipid membranes? a) Ionised drug b) Non-ionised drug c) Protein-bound drug d) Lipophilic drug e) Hypophilic drug
a) Ionised drug
90
What is first-order kinetics?
The rate of elimination of a drug where the amount of drug decreases at a rate that is proportional to the concentration of the drug remaining in the body. It applies to most drugs in clinical use
91
What is zero-order kinetics?
The rate of elimination of a drug where you get rid of the same amount of drug per unit time. Implies a saturable (usually enzymic) metabolic process which applies to very few drugs. Half life does not apply
92
What is hepatic first pass metabolism?
The degradation and alteration of a drug by the liver, before it enters the systemic circulation
93
What are the phase I metabolic changes that are made to a drug? (3)
Oxidation Reduction Hydrolysis
94
What are the phase II metabolic changes that are made to a drug? (6)
``` Glucuronidation Acetylation Amino acid conjugation Sulphation Methylation Glutathione conjugation ```
95
Where is cytochrome P450 found? What is it's role in drug metabolism?
Embedded on the smooth endoplasmic reticulum in the liver. It is an important enzyme in phase I oxidising reactions and it is involved in the metabolism of the majority of drugs
96
What is the most common cytochrome P450 reaction?
Hydroxylation
97
What is the effect of metabolism of pentobarbitone?
Pentobarbitone makes you sleep but the metabolised form is inactive
98
What is the effect of metabolism of acetanilide?
Acetanilide is a prodrug. It is toxic, but it is metabolised to form paracetamol.
99
What enzyme is needed to metabolise alcohol?
Alcohol dehydrogenase
100
What kind of kinetics does alcohol dehydrogenase have?
Zero order kinetics- it is saturable
101
What does cytochrome P450 use as a cofactor?
NADH⁺ and NADPH⁺
102
What is the purpose of phase I metabolism?
Prepares a drug for phase II metabolism by introducing a functional group such as -OH, -NH₂, -SH or -COOH
103
What is the most common phase II metabolic reaction?
Glucuronidation reactions
104
What occurs in a glucuronidation reaction?
A sugar is added to the drug to produce a soluble molecule which can be excreted (often in bile)
105
What is the second most common phase II metabolic reaction?
Acetylation reactions
106
What occurs in an acetylation reaction?
Acetyl CoA acts as a donor compound; an acetyl group is transferred to an electron-rich atom (N, O or S)
107
What occurs in a methylation reaction?
Methyl group is transferred to an electron-rich atom (N, O or S)
108
What type of reactions are phase II reactions? What functional groups do they utilise?
Conjugation reactions. They utilise -OH, -NH₂, -SH and -COOH
109
What are cholinomimetics?
Drugs which mimic the action of acetylcholine, mainly in the peripheral nervous system
110
What enzyme is required to produce acetylcholine?
Choline acetyltransferase
111
What receptor does acetylcholine induce effects in?
Muscarinic receptors; will also generate a response in nicotinic responses but requires higher doses of acetylcholine
112
What nerve stimulates M2 receptors?
Vagus nerve
113
What subunits make up the nicotinic receptor? What do these determine?
α, β, γ, δ and ε | Subunit combination determines the ligand binding properties of the receptor
114
What are the muscarinic effects of cholinomimetics in the eye?
Contraction of the ciliary muscle: accomodation for near vision Contraction of the sphincter pupillae: Constricts pupil (miosis) and improves drainage of intraocular fluid via the canals of Schlemm Lacrimation (tears)
115
What is the muscarinic effect of cholinomimetics in the heart?
Binds to M2 acetylcholine receptors in atria and nodes of the heart. decreases cAMP: 1) Decreased Ca²⁺ entry = decreased cardiac output 2) Increased K⁺ effect = decreased heart rate
116
What is the muscarinic effects of cholinomimetics in the vasculature?
Most blood vessels do not have parasympathetic innervation ACh acts on vascular endothelial cells to stimulate NO release via M3 acetylcholine receptors NO induces vascular smooth muscle relaxation Results in a decrease in TPR
117
What are the muscarinic effect of cholinomimetics on the cardiovascular system?
Decreased heart rate Decreased cardiac output (due to decreased atrial contraction) Vasodilation (stimulation of NO production) All of these combine to produce a sharp drop in blood pressure
118
What are the muscarinic effects of cholinomimetics in non-vascular smooth muscle?
Smooth muscle that does have parasympathetic innervation responds in the opposite way to vascular muscle- it has an excitatory effect Lung: bronchoconstriction Gut: Increased peristalsis Bladder: Increased bladder emptying
119
What are the muscarinic effects of cholinomimetics in exocrine glands?
Salivation Increased bronchial secretions Increased gastrointestinal secretions (including gastric HCl production) Increased sweating (SNS mediated)
120
Give two examples of directly acting cholinomimetic drugs
1) Choline esters (bethanechol) 2) Alkaloids (pilocarpine) Both drugs have very similar structures to acetylcholine
121
What is pilocarpine? What are it's main uses and side effects?
A non-selective muscarinic agonist with good lipid solubility. Particularly useful in ophthalmology as a local treatment for glaucoma Side effects: blurred vision, sweating, gastrointestinal disturbance and pain, hypotension, respiratory distress
122
What is bethanechol? What are it's main uses and side effects?
A selective M3 acetylcholine receptor agonist. Mainly used to assist bladder emptying and to enhance gastric motility. Side effects: sweating, impaired vision, nausea, bradycardia, hypotension, respiratory difficulty
123
How do indirectly acting cholinomimetic drugs work? What are the two different types? (Give examples)
Increase the effect of normal parasympathetic nerve stimulation by slowing down the action of acetyl cholinesterase 1) Reversible anticholinesterases (e.g. physostigmine, neostigmine, donepezil) 2) Irreversible anticholinesterases (e.g. ecothiopate, dyflos, sarin)
124
What is the action of cholinesterase enzymes? What are the two different types?
Metabolise acetylcholine to choline and acetate 1) Acetylcholinesterase 2) Butyrylcholinesterase
125
Where is acetylcholinesterase found? Describe it's action
Found in all cholinergic synapses (peripheral and central) | Very rapid action and highly selective for acetylcholine
126
Where is butyrylcholinesterase found? Describe it's action
Found in plasma and most tissues but not in cholinergic synapses with broad substrate specificity. It is the principal reason for low plasma acetylcholine. Shows genetic variation
127
What is the effect of a low dose of cholinesterase inhibitors?
Enhanced muscarinic activity
128
What is the effect of a moderate dose of cholinesterase inhibitors?
Further enhancement of muscarinic activity. Increased transmission at all autonomic ganglia
129
What is the effect of a high (toxic) dose of cholinesterase inhibitors?
Depolarising block at autonomic ganglia and neuromuscular junction
130
What is the mechanism of action of reversible anticholinesterase drugs? Give examples
Competes with acetylcholine for active site on the cholinesterase enzyme. Donates a carbamyl group to the enzyme, blocking the active site and preventing acetylcholine from binding. Carbamyl is removed by slow hydrolysis. Increases the duration of acetylcholine activity in the synapse e.g. physostigmine, neostigmine
131
Where does physostigmine act? What is it used for?
Primarily acts at the postganglionic parasympathetic synapse. It is a reversible anticholinesterase drug. Used to treat glaucoma, aiding intraocular fluid drainage. Also used to treat atropine poisoning, particularly in children
132
What is the mechanism of action of irreversible anticholinesterase drugs? Give examples
Rapidly react with the enzyme active site, leaving a large blocking group. This is stable and resistant to hydrolysis, so recovery may require production of new enzymes e.g. ecothiopate
133
What is ecothiopate? What is it used to treat? What are the side effects?
A potent inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase. Slow reactivation of the enzyme by hydrolysis takes several days. Used as eye drops to treat glaucoma. Side effects: sweating, blurred vision, GI pain, bradycardia, hypotension and respiratory difficulty
134
What type of anticholinesterase drugs can access the brain? What is the effect of low and high doses?
Non-polar anticholinesterase drugs can cross the blood-brain barrier Low doses: Excitation with possible convulsions High doses: Unconsciousness, respiratory depression, death
135
What anticholinesterase drugs are used to treat Alzheimer's disease?
Donepezil and tacrine. Acetylcholine is important in learning and memory. Potentiation of central cholinergic transmission relieves Alzheimer's symptoms but does not effect degeneration
136
What are the effects of organophosphate poisoning? How is it treated?
Organophosphate is an insecticide or nerve agent which causes severe toxicity (increased muscarinic activity, CNS excitation and depolarising neuromuscular block) Treatment: IV atropine, artificial respiration, IV pralidoxime (must be given within a couple of hours)
137
Anticholinesterase drugs have the ability to increase activity at which synapses within the autonomic nervous system?
Pre- and post-ganglionic parasympathetic synapses
138
What is the target site of heroin?
μ opioid receptors
139
What is the route of heroin from injection to binding to it's receptor?
Injected into venous system → heart → pulmonary circulation → aorta → systemic circulation → brain → brain capillaries →diffuses across blood-brain barrier (lipophilic) → binds opioid receptors
140
How does alcohol tolerance occur?
Pharmacokinetic tolerance means you produce more alcohol dehydrogenase so you have to drink larger quantities of alcohol to achieve the same results
141
Fentanyl has a left shift on the dose response graph compared to heroin. What does that mean?
The effects of fentanyl occur at a lower dose than heroin
142
What is drug affinity?
Where the drug binds the receptor more readily, meaning the drug-receptor complex is formed for longer periods
143
What is drug efficacy?
A drug's ability to activate the receptor to produce a response
144
How does naloxone work?
It is a competitive opioid receptor antagonist
145
What is the structure-affinity relationship?
Where drugs have a very similar structure, but the very small changes between them change the activity of the drug e.g. codeine, morphine and heroin
146
How would a partial agonist curve differ from a full agonist on a dose-response graph?
A partial agonist would not have as much of a response on the curve (it would have ∼ half the height)
147
What is drug potency?
ED50 (effective dose where you see 50% response) Potency ≈ affinity + efficacy Clinically efficacy is not relevant than potency
148
What are the different types of formulation that can be used to deliver a drug orally?
``` Liquids Syrups Tinctures Powders Soluble (effervescent) tablets Capsules Tablets Enteric-coated tablets ```
149
Why are excipients added to a drug formulation?
To alter bioavailability of a drug To improve the flavour of the drug To reduce the rate at which the drug is released into the blood
150
How does the ionisation of a drug and pH affect the bioavailability?
Ionisation affects whether the drug can be absorbed through the membrane. pH affects whether the drug is ionised or non-ionised.
151
Why would it be advantageous to take soluble aspirin?
When it needs to be absorbed quickly, for example for a headache so it works more quickly
152
When would it be advantageous to take enteric-coated aspirin?
When slow release of the drug is required, for example for long lasting pain relief in arthritis
153
Why is bioequivalence important when prescribing generic versions of a drug?
To ensure the effects of the drug are similar to the original form of the drug and to minimise side effects of the new drug
154
What is a narrow therapeutic index?
A narrow range between a harmful effect and the desired therapeutic effect
155
How can good bioavailability be achieved for drugs that undergo extensive first-pass metabolism?
Intravenous administration Use prodrugs Drug could work at very low doses or administered in high doses
156
What kind of illness could affect the bioavailability of drugs?
Liver disease | Gastrointestinal diseases which affect absorption
157
What is the efficacy of antagonists?
They have no efficacy as they do not cause a response
158
Which of the following drugs has efficacy for the muscadine can acetylcholine receptor? 1) Acetylcholine 2) Atropine 3) Acetyl-cholinesterase 4) Adrenaline 5) Acetate
1) Acetylcholine 2) Atropine (antagonist) 3) Acetyl-cholinesterase (enzyme in the synapse) 4) Adrenaline (adrenergic receptor) 5) Acetate (breakdown product)
159
What are of the autonomic nervous system is influenced by nicotinic receptors?
All of the autonomic nervous system
160
What is a ganglion blocking drug?
A nicotinic receptor antagonist
161
What is the mechanism of nicotinic receptor antagonists? Give two examples of these drugs
1) Bind to and block the nicotinic receptor 2) Enter the ion channel and block passage through the channel Use dependent block: the more ACh present (the more active the channel) the more effective the antagonist Partial blockade: slows the ion channel down e.g. Hexamethonium and Trimetaphan
162
What effect will blocking the nicotinic receptor have on the body?
The effect will depend upon which arm of the autonomic nervous system is active. If parasympathetic is active it will block parasympathetic actions (e.g. Decrease gut motility, increase heart rate etc)
163
Which of the following effects would be observed at rest after treatment with a ganglion blocking drug? 1) Increased heart rate 2) Pupil constriction 3) Bronchodilation 4) Detrusor contraction 5) Increased gut motility
1) Increased heart rate | 3) Bronchodilation
164
Why would a nicotinic receptor antagonist cause hypotension?
It would inhibit blood vessel constriction and reduce renin secretion which would decrease blood pressure
165
Give two examples of nicotinic receptor antagonists.
Hexamethonium | Trimetaphan
166
Hexamethonium and Trimetaphan are two examples of nicotinic receptor antagonists. One is primarily a receptor antagonist and one is primarily an ion channel blocker. Which is which?
Hexamethonium is primarily an ion channel blocker Trimetaphan is primarily a receptor antagonist But both drugs can have both actions
167
What is the difference between toxins and drugs?
Drugs predominantly only target the autonomic nervous system. Toxins bind irreversibly to receptors, and target both the autonomic nervous system and the skeletal muscle, causing paralysis
168
Why are muscarinic receptors better targets for drugs?
They are only found on the post-synaptic neurones in the parasympathetic nervous system, and sweat glands, so they produce a much more specific effect
169
Give examples of muscarinic receptor antagonists. (3)
Atropine Hyoscine Tropicamide
170
What is the difference between Atropine and Hyoscine in terms of effect on the CNS?
These drugs are very similar with the exception of the CNS: Normal dose- Atropine has little effect on the CNS, but Hyoscine induces sedation and amnesia Toxic dose- Atropine induces mild restlessness and agitation whilst Hyoscine induces CNS depression or paradoxical CNS excitation associated with pain
171
Atropine and Hyoscine are both lipid soluble and therefore are both able to cross the BBB and access the brain. Which drug has greater permeation into the CNS?
Hyoscine | Atropine is less M1 selective
172
Why do muscarinic receptor antagonists make good anaesthetic premedications?
They block: Trachea and bronchiole constriction Salivary gland watery secretions Decrease in heart rate and contractility Plus they induce sedation
173
How are muscarinic receptor antagonists used in Parkinson's disease?
The cholinergic system inhibits the dopaminergic system in Parkinson's disease (The loss of dopaminergic neurones = less dopamine = less D1 receptor activation) M4 receptors also inhibit D1, amplifying the response Muscarinic receptor antagonists dampen down these effects
174
Why is Ipratropium Bromide specially designed for it's use? What is this drug used for?
Used for asthma. Inhaled to produce effects. It is a similar structure to atropine, but it is a larger molecule, so it cannot cross the membrane to produce side effects
175
How can muscarinic receptor antagonists be used to treat irritable bowel syndrome?
Parasympathetic nervous system increases GI motility and tone and increases secretions Muscarinic receptor antagonists block these effects, reducing the symptoms of IBS
176
What is cyclopegia?
Inability to focus on near objects
177
Which of the following drugs would you administer to treat an atropine overdose? 1) Bethanechol 2) Ecothiopate 3) Hyoscine 4) Physostigmine 5) Pralidoxime
Answer: 4 (and 1) 2 and 4 are anticholinesterases (increase amount of ACh in the synapse) 5 can reverse anticholinesterase poisoning 4 is reversible 1 is a muscarine agonist
178
What is Botulinum toxin? How does it induce it's effects?
Botox Prevents ACh vesicles from docking with the membrane and exocytosing. Injected directly into the skeletal muscle it causes paralysis of the muscle
179
What is the selectivity for noradrenaline of the adrenoceptors?
α1 = α2 > β1 = β2
180
What is the selectivity for adrenaline of the adrenoceptors?
β1 = β2 > α1 = α2
181
What adrenoceptor is found on the presynaptic adrenergic neurone? What is the function of this receptor?
α2 receptor provides negative feedback to the neurone, to inhibit more noradrenaline release
182
Give examples of directly acting SNS agonists and the receptor they selectively bind?
``` Adrenaline (non-selective) Phenylephrine (α1) Clonidine (α2) Dobutamine (β1) Salbutamol (β2) Higher concentrations of drugs will start to lose selectivity and effect other receptors ```
183
Why is adrenaline administered during anaphylactic shock?
Adrenaline works on β-receptors (preferably to α-receptors) causing: - bronchodilation (β2) - tachycardia (β1) - ↑ vasoconstriction (α1) It will have a small effect on breathing and heart rate
184
Give examples of pulmonary conditions where adrenaline would be administered. Why?
Asthma emergencies Acute bronchospasm associated with chronic bronchitis or emphysema β2 receptor causes bronchodilation Suppression of mediator release
185
Why is adrenaline administered in glaucoma?
Glaucoma = increased intraocular pressure due to poor drainage of the aqueous humour Adrenalin causes decreased production of aqueous humour due to vasoconstriction of the ciliary body blood vessels
186
Why would local anaesthetics contain adrenaline?
Adrenaline causes vasoconstriction which reduces blood supply and prevents removal of the local anaesthetic. This prolongs the action of the drug Act on the α1 receptor
187
What are the unwanted actions of adrenaline? (5)
``` 1) Secretions Reduced and thickened mucous 2) CNS Minimal 3) CVS effects - tachycardia, palpitations, arrhythmias - cold extremities, hypertension - overdose - cerebral haemorrhage, pulmonary oedema 4) GIT Minimal 5) Skeletal muscle Tremor ```
188
What are the clinical uses of Phenylephrine? What receptor is it most selective for?
``` It is chemically related to adrenaline but it id resistant to degradation by the COMT gene (but not MAO) - Vasoconstriction - Mydriatic - Nasal decongestant Most selective for α1 > α2 > β1/2 ```
189
What are the clinical uses of Clonidine? What receptor is it most selective for?
Found on adrenergic presynaptic neurones Decreases release of NA and decrease synaptic drive Most selective for α2 > α1 > β1/2
190
What is Clonidine used to treat? How does it achieve this?
Treatment of hypertension and migraine Reduces sympathetic tone- inhibition of NA release = decrease in Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone-System which causes ↓ heart rate and ↓ vasoconstriction
191
Why is Isoprenaline preferable to adrenaline? What receptor is it most selective for?
It is chemically similar to adrenaline but it is less susceptible to uptake 1 and MAO breakdown. It has a plasma half-life of 2 hours Most selective for β1 = β2 > α1/2
192
What are the clinical uses of Isoprenaline? What must you be cautious of using this drug?
- Cardiogenic shock - Acute heart failure - Myocardial infarction Non-selective for β1 and β2. β2 activity causes a fall in venous blood pressure which results in a reflex tachycardia via the stimulation of baroreceptors
193
What are the clinical uses of Dobutamine? What receptor is it most selective for?
Used in cardiogenic shock- does not result in reflex tachycardia like Isoprenaline, but it is rapidly metabolised by COMT Most selective for β1 > β2 > α1/2
194
What are the clinical uses of Salbutamol? What receptor is it most selective for?
Used in the treatment of asthma (β2-relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle) and in treatment of threatened premature labour (β2-relaxation of uterine smooth muscle) Most selective for β2 > β1 > α1/2
195
What are the side effects associated with salbutamol?
Reflex tachycardia Tremor Blood sugar dysregulation
196
What are the effects of cocaine on the CNS?
Low Doses- euphoria, excitement, increased motor activity | High Doses- activation of CTZ, CNS depression, respiratory failure, convulsions and death
197
What are the effects of cocaine on the CVS?
Low Doses- tachycardia, vasoconstriction, raised blood pressure High Doses- ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest
198
What is tyramine? Where is it found?
A dietary amino acid | Found naturally in cheese, red wine and soy sauce
199
When does ingestion of tyramine cause problems?
When taking MAO inhibitors tyramine competes with MAO which is required for the breakdown of NA Causes hypertensive crisis
200
What is the role of the α2-receptor on the presynaptic neuron?
Involved in receptor-mediated negative feedback of noradrenaline release
201
What are the different types of adrenoceptor and their action?
α1: Vasoconstriction, relaxation of GIT α2: Inhibition of transmitter release, contraction of vascular smooth muscle, CNS actions β1: Increased cardac rate and force, relaxation of GIT, renin release from kidney β2: Bronchodilation, vasoconstriction, relaxation of visceral smooth muscle, hepatic glycogenolysis β3: Lipolysis
202
What are the adrenoceptor antagonists that act on the different adrenoceptors?
``` Non-selective (α1 + β1): Labetalol α1 + α2: Phentolamine α1: Prazosin β1 + β2: Propranolol β1: Atenolol ```
203
What are the clinical uses of SNS antagonists?
Hypertension Cardiac arrhythmias Angina Glaucoma
204
What are the tissue targets for antihypertensives?
1) Sympathetic nerves that release the vasoconstrictor noradrenaline 2) Kidney- blood volume/ vasoconstriction 3) Heart 4) Arterioles- determine peripheral resistance 5) CNS- determines blood pressure set point and regulates some systems involved in blood pressure control and autonomic nervous system
205
What action do β1-adrenoceptor antagonists have?
1) Acts in CNS to reduce sympathetic tone 2) Heart: reduces heart rate and cardiac output but this effect disappears in chronic treatment 3) Kidney: reduces renin production. Common long-term feature in their anti-hypertensive action is a reduction in peripheral resistance
206
What is the role of the β1-receptor on the presynaptic neuron?
Involved in receptor-mediated positive feedback of noradrenaline
207
What are the unwanted effects of β-antagonists?
``` Bronchoconstriction Cardiac failure Hypoglycaemia Fatigue Cold extremities Bad dreams ```
208
Why do β-antagonists cause bronchoconstriction? Who is particularly susceptible?
Activation of β2 receptors cause bronchodilation so non-selective β-antagonists cause bronchoconstriction, In asthmatic patients this can be dramatic and life-threatening. Also clinically important in patients with obstructive lung disease (e.g. bronchitis)
209
Why do β-antagonists cause cardiac failure? Who is particularly susceptible?
Patients with heart disease may rely on a degree of sympathetic drive to the heart to maintain an adequate cardiac output, and removal of this by blocking β-receptors will produce a degree of cardiac failure
210
Why do β-antagonists cause hypoglycaemia?
Use of β-antagonists mask the symptoms of hypoglycaemia (sweating, palpitations, tremor). Non-selective β-antagonists will also block the β2-receptor driven breakdown of glycogen
211
Why do β-antagonists cause fatigue?
Due to reduced cardiac output and reduced muscle perfusion
212
Why do β-antagonists cause cold extremities?
Loss of β-receptor mediated vasodilation in cutaneous vessels
213
What is the mechanism of action of propanolol? What effect does it have once taken?
β1 and β2 (non-selective) adrenoceptor antagonist In a subject at rest propanolol causes very little change in heart rate, cardiac output or arterial pressure, but reduces the effect of exercise or stress on these variables
214
What is the mechanism of action of atenolol? What effect does it have once taken?
"Cardio-selective drugs" β1-selective: antagonises the effects of noradrenaline on the heart but will affect any tissue with β1 receptors (e.g. kidney) Less effect on the airways than non-selective drugs, but still not safe with asthmatic patients. Selectivity is concentration dependent
215
What is the mechanism of action of labetalol? What effect does it have once taken?
Dual acting β1 and α1 antagonist, higher ratio of β1 to α1 (4:1) This drug lowers blood pressure via a reduction in peripheral resistance Like β-blockers, labetalol induces a change in heart rate or cardiac output but this effect wanes with chronic use
216
What action do α-adrenoceptor antagonists have?
1) Fall in arterial pressure 2) Postural hypotension 3) Cardiac output/ heart rate increases- reflex response to fall in arterial pressure (β-receptors) 4) Blood flow through cutaneous and splanchnic vascular beds increased, but effects on vascular smooth muscle are slight
217
What is the mechanism of action of phentolamine? What effect does it have once taken?
Non-selective α-antagonist Causes vasodilation and a fall in blood pressure due to blockade of α1-receptors Blockade of α2-receptors tends to increase noradrenaline release (takes away negative feedback), enhances the reflex tachycardia that occurs with any blood pressure lowering agent Increased GIT motility, diarrhoea a common problem
218
What is the mechanism of action of prazosin? What effect does it have once taken?
Highly selective α1-antagonist Causes vasodilation and a fall in arterial pressure Less tachycardia than non-selective antagonists since they do not increase noradrenaline release from nerve terminals (no α2 actions) Cardiac output decreases, due to fall in venous pressure as a result of dilation of capitance vessels Hypotensive effect is dramatic
219
What is the mechanism of action of methyldopa?
An antihypertensive agent taken up by noradrenergic neurons. Decarboxylated and hydroxylated to form false transmitter α-methyl-noradrenaline Not deaminated within neuron by MAO (Mono Amine Oxidase) and therefore tends to accumulate in larger quantities than noradrenaline, and displaces noradrenaline from synaptic vesicles
220
How does methyldopa differ from noradrenaline?
False transmitter released in the same way as noradrenaline but 1) Less active than noradrenaline on α1-receptors, less effective in causing vasoconstriction 2) More active on presynaptic (α2) receptors, auto-inhibitory feedback mechanism operates more strongly, reduces transmitter release below normal levels Some CNS effects; stimulates vasopressor centre in the brain stem to inhibit sympathetic outflow
221
What are the benefits of methyldopa that allow it to be used in patients with other conditions?
Renal and CNS blood flow are well maintained, so widely used in hypertensive patients with renal insufficiency or cerebrovascular disease Recommended in hypertensive pregnant women, has no adverse effects on foetus despite crossing the blood-placenta barrier
222
What are the adverse effects of methyldopa?
Dry mouth Sedation Orthostatic hypotension Male sexual dysfunction
223
What effect does increased sympathetic drive have on arrhythmias? What drug is used to treat them?
Increase in sympathetic drive to the heart via β1 can precipitate or aggrivate arrhythmias. Particularly after myocardial infarction there is an increase in sympathetic tone AV conductance depends critically on sympathetic activity. β-adrenoceptor antagonists increase the refractory period of the AV node, interfering wth AV conduction in atrial tachycardias, and slowng ventricular rate
224
What class II antiarrhythmic is used particularly for arrythmias that occur during exercise or stress?
Propanolol- a non-selective β-antagonist; effects mainly attributed to β1-antagonism
225
What are the different types of angina?
Stable: pain on exertion. Increased demand on the heart and is due to fixed narrowing of the coronary vessels (e.g. atheroma) Unstable: pain with less and less exertion, culminating with pain at rest. Platelet-fibrin thrombus associated with a ruptured atheromatous plaque, but without complete occlusion of the vessel. Risk of infarction Variable: occurs at rest, caused by coronary artery spasm, associated with atheromatous disease
226
What is the treatment for angina? Give an example of a drug.
Decrease heart rate Decrease systolic blood pressure Decrease cardiac contractile activity At low doses β1-selective agents (e.g. metoprolol) reduce heart rate and myocardial contractile activity without affecting bronchial smooth muscle Reduce the oxygen demand whilst maintaining the same degree or effort
227
What are the side effects of β-adrenoceptor antagonists used to treat angina? In what cases should the use of these drugs be avoided?
Side effects: fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, sexual dysfunction, bronchospasm, bradycardia, heart block, hypotension, decreased myocardial contractility NOT USED: bradycardia (<55bpm), bronchospasm, hypotension (systolic <90mmHg), AV block or severe congestive heart failure
228
What drugs are used to treat glaucoma? Give examples. How do they work?
Non selective β1 and β2 antagonists e.g. carteolol hydrochloride, levobunolol hydrochloride, timolol maleate Reduce the rate of aqueous humour formation by blocking the receptors on ciliary body Selective β1 antagonists betaxolol hydrochloride also shown to be effective
229
What are some other uses of β-antagonists?
Anxiety states- to control somatic symptoms associated with sympathetic over-reactivity, such as palpitations and tremor Migraine prophylaxis Benign essential tremor
230
What is the effect of pilocarpine on pupil size, accommodation and the light reflex? What is this drug used for? Why has it been superceded by other agents?
Causes decreased pupil size as it enhances parasympathetic nervous system response which causes more contraction of sphincter pupilae muscle. Increased accommodation for near vision due to enhanced PNS leading to increased lens bulging and constriction of ciliary muscles. Loss of light reflex due to PNS causing maximal constriction. Used to treat glaucoma as it causes contraction of the sphincter pupilae which allows the canal of Schlemm to open and the intraocular fluid to drain. Has side effects so more selective drugs are used.
231
What are the effects of tropicamide on pupil size, accommodation and the light reflex? How may the effects of tropicamide be used in the clinical setting?
Causes increased pupil size due to inhibition of the PNS (antagonist) causing less constriction of the sphincter pupilae. Decreased accommodation for near vision due to decreased contraction of the ciliary muscles. Loss of light reflex due to loss of ability to constrict. Clinically tropicamide is used to allow visualisation of the retina
232
How does the sympathetic nervous system influence ocular function? (3)
1) α2-receptors on dilator pupilae which means radial muscle constricts which dilates the pupil 2) Activity on β1-receptors on ciliary body which means aqueous humour production generated 3) Activity on α1-receptors on blood vessels which means vasoconstriction occurs
233
Why can a sympathomimetic drug (dipivefrine) and a β-blocker (timolol) both be used to treat glaucoma?
Dipivetrine causes vasoconstriction (main effect outweighs other sympathetic effects) Timolol also reduces blood flow
234
What are some of the problems associated with drugs (e.g. dipivetrine and timolol) applied topically to the eye, in terms of local and systemic bioavailability? How might you reduce these adverse effects?
Eye is heavily vascularised- more gets into the blood vessels than into the eye (need a higher dose). If this is chronic treatment, over time it will leak into the systemic circulation With eye drops some of the drug is lost Use more selective drug to have less systemic effects Timolol is a β-blocker = more selective as an antagonist than dipivetrine as an agonist (prodrug for adrenaline)- acts on both α and β
235
A toxic dose of heroin produces a similar effect on the eye to organophosphates. What is this effect and how does the mechanism differ between the two drugs? What happens to the eyes if toxicity continues and asphyxia occurs?
Organophosphate and heroin both affect the PNS. Opiate receptors on GABA interneurones; respond to heroin which causes disinhibition. Heroin causes massive stimulation of cranial nerve 3 (the occulomotor nerve), which leads to pathognomic pupil constriction if given a toxic dose. If toxicity continues and asphyxia occurs loss of oxygen causes nerve damage and further dilation Organophosphate is an anticholinesterase so it causes increased ACh in the synapse BOTH CAUSE CONSTRICTION OF THE SPHINCTER PUPILAE
236
Why are prostaglandin analogues commonly utilised in the treatment of glaucoma? Give an example
End result the same as pilocarpine. Gets into venous drainage channels (main action to break down collagen). Clear path within venous drainage channel means there is less resistance to flow and therefore improved drainage e.g. latanoprost
237
Why are carbonic anhydrase inhibitors commonly utilised in the treatment of glaucoma? Give an example.
Ciliary body β- receptors are coupled to carbonic anhydrase (which generates bicarbonate). Inhibiting carbonic anhydrase means less bicarbonate is generated so not enough Na and bicarbonate are available to create aqueous humour.
238
What type of activation is required in action potentials and end-plate potentials?
Action potential is all or nothing (threshold to activate) | End-plates have a graded potential
239
What receptors are found on the end-plate of the neuromuscular junction?
Nicotinic (pentameric) receptors
240
What subunit of the nicotinic receptor does the ACh bind to? What effect does this have on stimulation of the receptor?
It binds to the α-subunit. This means you need more than one ACh to stimulate the receptor
241
Give examples of drugs that drugs which act on the central processes? How do they work?
Spasmolytics e.g. Diazepam, baclofen They reduce the action potential propagation and reduce muscle contraction of skeletal muscle
242
What drugs target the conduction of nerve action potential in motor neurones?
Local anaesthetics Inhibit the influx of sodium by blocking the voltage-sensitive sodium channels, which reduces the generation of propagation of action potentials. Can also effect the motor neurones so avoid injecting near to motor neurones
243
What drugs target the release of ACh?
Hemicholinium (Inhibits/slows down reuptake of choline so leads to depletion of ACh) Ca²⁺ entry blockers (interact with presynpatic Ca²⁺ channels to dampen down Ca²⁺ influx) Neurotoxins (e.g. cobra venoms and bacterial toxins. Inhibits release of ACh)
244
What drugs target the depolarisation of the motor end-plate which causes initiation of an action potential?
Tubocurarine | Suxamethonium
245
What drugs target the propagation of an action potential along the muscle fibre and muscle contraction?
Spasmolytics e.g. Dantrolene Works by inhibiting the release of Ca²⁺ ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum in skeletal muscle fibres
246
What part of the synapse do neuromuscular blocking drugs target?
Postsynaptic action
247
Give an example of a non-depolarising neuromuscular blocking drug.
Tubocurarine | Atracurium
248
Give an example of a depolarising neuromuscular blocking drug.
Suxmethonium
249
What is the mechanism of action of suxamethonium? What happens when it is administered?
Induces an extended end plate depolarisation which causes a depolarisation block (over stimulating the receptors) It is broken down much slower than ACh so they switch off due to overstimulation Phase 1 (depolarisation) block Causes fasciculations then flaccid paralysis
250
What is the route of administration of suxamethonium? What is it's duration of action? How is it metabolised?
Administered intravenously Causes ∼5 minute paralysis Metabolised by pseudocholinesterase in liver and plasma
251
What are the uses of suxamethonium?
- Endotracheal intubation | - Muscle relaxant for electroconvulsive therapy (used to treat severe clinical depression- last resort)
252
What are the unwanted effects of suxamethonium?
1) Post-operative muscle pains (from fasciculations) 2) Bradycardia - direct muscarinic action on heart (can be blocked with atropine premeds) 3) Hyperkalaemia - soft tissue injury or burns damage cholinergic fibres so upregulates nicotinic receptors on surface (denervation super sensitivity) = exaggerated response to drug; ventricular arrhythmias / cardiac arrest 4) Increased intraocular pressure - avoid for eye injuries, glaucoma
253
What is the mechanism of action of tubocurarine? What happens when it is administered?
``` A competitive nicotinic ACh antagonist 70-80% block necessary (to bring down the graded potential) Tubocurarine causes flaccid paralysis Administration causes paralysis of: 1) extrinsic eye muscles (double vision) 2) small muscles of the face, limbs, pharynx 3) Respiratory muscles (unblocked in reverse order) ```
254
What are the uses of tubocurarine?
1) Relaxation of skeletal muscles during surgical operations- particularly abdominal muscles (= less anaesthetic) 2) Permits artificial ventilation- causes relaxation of respiratory muscles
255
How do you reverse the actions of a non-depolarising neuromuscular blocker? Give an example of a drug that would be used.
Administer anticholinesterases Increases the amount of ACh in the synaptic cleft e.g. Neostigmine (and atropine to reduce stimulation of muscarinic receptors (combined IV injection)
256
Describe the pharmacokinetics of tubocurarine. How is it administered? What is the duration of paralysis?
Administered intravenously (highly charged) Induces paralysis for 40-60 mins (long duration) Does not cross the BBB or placenta Is not metabolised Excreted: 70% urine; 30% bile
257
What drug would be used in a patient who has impaired renal or hepatic function? Why?
Atracurium | Has a 15 minute duration of action so is less dependent on rapid excretion.
258
What are the unwanted effects of tubocurarine?
Caused by ganglion block; histamine release 1) HYPOTENSION - Ganglion blockade = decreased TPR - Histamine release from mast cells 2) Tachycardia (can lead to arrhythmias) - reflex - blockade of vagal ganglia (reduces the firing rate of the heart) 3) BRONCHOSPASM 4) Excessive secretions (bronchial and salivary) 5) Apnoea (always assist respiration)
259
The clinical use of neuromuscular blocking drugs will most likely involve interference with which of the following physiological processes? 1) Kidney function 2) Consciousness 3) Body temperature regulation 4) Pain sensation 5) Respiration
5) Respiration
260
Which of the following effects would be observed with a non-depolarising neuromuscular block? 1) Initial muscle fasciculations 2) Irreversible nAChR blockade 3) The block would be enhanced by anti-cholinesterase drugs 4) A flaccid paralysis 5) Increased arterial pressure
4) A flaccid paralysis
261
Give an example of a β-blocker that exerts it's maximum effect during exercise or stress.
Pindolol
262
Which of the following pharmacodynamic properties is a competitive receptor antagonist most likely to display? a) High efficacy and zero affinity b) High potency and moderate affinity c) Zero efficacy and moderate affinity d) Zero potency and zero affinity e) Moderate efficacy and moderate affinity
C) Zero efficacy and moderate affinity Only agonists possess efficacy
263
How does adrenaline reduce the effects of mast cell derived histamine during an anaphylactic response?
Physiological antagonism
264
Give an example of a drug that works by pharmacokinetic antagonism.
Barbiturates
265
What type of drug can never induce a maximal response?
A partial agonist | e.g. clonidine
266
Why does reducing the lipid solubility of drugs make them easier to excrete?
It reduces reabsorption in the kidney
267
Which one of the following effects can be attributed to anti-cholinesterase poisoning? a) Bronchodilation b) Reduced gut motility c) Increased secretions d) Tachycardia e) Mydriasis
c) Increased secretions Blocks the action of acetylcholinesterase which causes a build up of ACh in the synapse and increases the action
268
How do muscarinic receptor antagonists influence function within the striatum and thus improve the symptoms of Parkinson's?
They increase dopamine receptor activation
269
Neuromuscular blockade by tubocurarine is used as an adjunct to anaesthesia in surgery. How does tubocurarine bring about it's effects at the motor end plate?
Antagonism of the actions of acetylcholine at nicotinic receptors
270
What is the mechanism for regulating contractility in the heart?
Electrical excitation of the cell from action potentials arises from the sino-atrial node which induces membrane depolarisation that promotes If (funny channels) to open and cause a small release of Ca²⁺ into the cytoplasm. The small Ca²⁺ current induces a release of Ca²⁺ from the SR (Ca-induced Ca-release) through It (transient) and Il (Long lasting) ryanodine receptors
271
How do β-blockers affect channels involved in maintaining heart rate?
Decrease If and and Ica which contractility
272
How do calcium antagonists affect channels involved in maintaining heart rate?
Decrease Ica
273
What are the two different classes of calcium antagonist? Which type have higher selectivity on the heart?
1) Rate slowing (Cardiac and smooth muscle actions) - Phenylalkylamines (e.g. Verapamil) - Bencothiazepines (e.g. Diltiazem) 2) Non-rate slowing (smooth muscle actions - more potent) - Dihydropyridines (e.g. amlodipine) Rate slowing have higher selectivity on the heart. Non-rate slowing have higher selectivity on the vasculature
274
What drugs influence myocardial oxygen supply/demand? How do they work?
Organic nitrates (directly supply NO) and potassium channel openers (tend to lead to hyperpolarisation) Both dilate coronary vessels and improve oxygen to the heart ↑ coronary blood flow Vasodilation = ↓ afterload Venodilation = ↓ preload
275
What does Ivabradine do?
Increases heart rate
276
What is the treatment for angina?
β-blocker or calcium antagonist as background anti-angina treatment Ivabradine is a newer treatment Nitrate as symptomatic treatment (short acting)- taken pre-exercise Other agents (e.g. potassium channel opener) if intolerant to other drugs
277
What are the unwanted side effects of β-blockers?
- Worsening of cardiac failure (CO reduction) - Bradycardia (heart block) (due to less conduction through AV node) - Bronchoconstriction (blockade of β2 in airways) - Hypoglycaemia (in diabetics on insulin) (decreased glycogenolysis/gluconeogenesis) - Cold extremities and worsening of peripheral arterial disease (blockade of β2 in skeletal muscle vessels) - Fatigue - Impotence (sexual dysfunction) - Depression - CNS effects (lipophilic agents) e.g. nightmares
278
What are the side effects of calcium channel blockers?
Verapamil - Bradycardia and AV block - Constipation (25%) Dihydropyridines- 10-20% patients - Ankle oedema - Headache/flushing - Palpitations
279
What are the aims of treatment of cardiac rhythm disturbances?
- Reduce sudden death - Prevent stroke - Alleviate symptoms
280
What are the different types of arrhythmias?
- Supraventricular arrhythmias (e.g. amiodarone, verapamil) - Ventricular arrhythmias (e.g. flecainide, lidocaine) - Complex (supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias) (e.g. disopyramide)
281
What is the Vaughan Williams classification of anti-arrhythmic drugs?
Class Mechanism of Action I Sodium channel blockade II β adrenergic blockade III Prolongation of repolarisation ('Membrane stabilisation' mainly due to potassium channel blockade) IV Calcium channel blockade
282
What are the uses of adenosine (anti-arrythmic)?
Used intravenously to terminate supraventricular tachyarrhythmias (SVT). Its actions are short-lived (20-30s) and it is consequently safer than verapamil Used for acute arrhythmias Couples with G causing reduced cAMP
283
What are the uses of verapamil (anti-arrythmic)? How does it work?
Used for reduction of ventricular responsiveness to atrial arrhythmias Depresses SA automatically and subsequent AV node conduction
284
What are the uses of amiodarone (anti-arrythmic)? How does it work? What are the side effects?
Used for superventricular and ventricular tachyarrhythmias- often due to reentry Has complex action probably involving multiple ion channel block Amiodarone accumulates in the body (half life- 10-100 days) Has a number of important adverse effects including: - photosensitive skin rashes - hypo- or hyper- thyroidism - pulmonary fibrosis
285
What effect does digoxin have on inotropy?
Causes inhibition of Na/K/ATPase which results in increased intracellular Ca²⁺ exchange= Positive inotropic effect Central vagal stimulation causes increased refractory period and reduced rate of conduction through AV node
286
What are the uses and side effects of digoxin?
Uses: - Atrial fibrillation and flutter lead to a rapid entricular rate that can impair ventricular filling (due to decreased filling time) and reduce cardiac output - Digoxin via vagal stimulation reduces the conduction of electrical impulses within the AV nodes. Fewer impulses reach the ventricles and ventricular rate falls Adverse effects: - Dysrhythmias (e.g. AV conduction block, ectopic pacemaker activity
287
What effect does hypokalaemia have on digoxin toxicity?
It lowers the threshold for toxicity. Digoxin prevents K⁺ uptake into cells, so more K⁺ outside of cells. If you have lower K⁺ the effect of digoxin is enhanced because you have lower K⁺
288
What do most antihypertensive drugs target?
Total peripheral resistance
289
What effect does arteriole contraction and relaxation have on vessel radius, resistance and flow?
Contraction ↓ radius ↑ resistance ↓ flow Relaxation ↑ radius ↓ resistance ↑ flow
290
What does a patients blood pressure need to be over to be classes as hypertensive?
140/90 mmHg
291
What conditions are liked to hypertension?
- Stroke (50% of ischaemic strokes) - ~25% of heart failure cases (70% in elderly) Major risk factor for myocardial infarction and chronic kidney disease
292
What would be the first line of treatment for an individual under 55 with hypertension?
ACE inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker
293
What would be the first line of treatment for an individual over 55 or an afro caribbean of any age?
Calcium channel blocker or thiazide-type diuretic
294
What is the second line of treatment for hypertension?
ACE inhibitor and calcium channel blocker OR ACE inhibitor and thiazide type diuretic
295
What is the third line of treatment for hypertension?
ACE inhibitor and calcium channel blocker and thiazide type diuretic
296
What treatment is given following the third line of treatment for resistant hypertension?
Consider low dose spironolactone | Consider β-blocker or α-blocker
297
How do ACE inhibitors treat hypertension? What side effect does this cause?
Prevents the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II | Also prevents the conversion of bradykinin to inactive metabolytes- this causes a cough
298
What drugs end in -pril?
ACE inhibitors
299
What are the uses of ACE inhibitors? Give an example of the drug.
Uses: - hypertension - heart failure - post-myocardial infarction - diabetic nephropathy - progressive renal insufficiency - patients at high risk of cardiovascular disease e. g. Enalapril
300
What law states that increased venous return leads to increased cardiac contractility?
Starling's law
301
What are angiotensin receptor blockers? What are their uses?
Antagonists or type I (AT₁) receptors for Ang II, preventing the renal and vascular actions of Ang II Uses: hypertension and heart failure
302
Which drug is preferable: ACe inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers? Why?
ACE inhibitors as there is lower incidence of stroke
303
What are the different types of calcium channel blocker? Which is more likely to have an effect on the heart?
Dihydropyridines (DHPs) - More selective for blood vessels - Amlodipine: does not cause any negative inotropy - Also licensed for prophylaxis or angina Non-DHPs (aka rate-limiting) - Verapamil: large negative inotropic effect (more likely to have an effect on the heart)
304
Which calcium channel blocker would you use to treat hypertension?
Amlodipine
305
How do dihydropyridines treat hypertension?
DHPs inhibit Ca²⁺ entry into vascular smooth muscle cells | ↓TPR = ↓BP
306
Why are ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers used as the first line of treatment?
Because they have a less severe side effect profile so patients are more likely to continue taking them
307
Why are afro caribbeans advised to take calcium channel blockers or thiazide type diuretics as the first line of treatment?
They have a low plasma renin activity. Need to utilise dual therapy with this ethnic group
308
Why would α₁-adrenoceptor antagonists be used to treat hypertension?
α₁ causes vasoconstriction and are found on blood vessels so blocking these will prevent this. This will prevent IP₃ production which means no Ca²⁺ Reduced vasoconstriction but α₂ receptors are negative feedback (particularly in the brain) so you get an enhanced sympathetic response
309
What sort of drug is bendrofluazide? How does it act to lower blood pressure?
Thiazide diuretic Increases salt excretion and therefore water causing blood pressure to decrease. It blocks water moving from lumen to blood; blood volume decreases; preload decreases (venous return decreases)
310
What class of drug is ramipril? Why is this the best choice for a second line treatment?
ACE inhibitor which blocks production of angiotensin II- a vasoconstrictor which also causes aldosterone secretion. Causes vasoconstriction and reduces fluid volume. Used as second line treatment as first diuretic will cause compensatory activation of RAAS, which is then targeted by the ACE inhibitor
311
Why is digoxin prescribed to a patient with atrial fibrillation? What is the mechanism of action?
It slows down the heart rate and increases contractility Heart rate is reduced because the Na/K pump is blocked- sodium then builds up inside the cell- calcium cannot therefore be removed from the cardiac muscle- this will impact contractility
312
What is the difference between stable and unstable angina?
Stable angina occurs after exercise; unstable angina can occur at any time
313
What is the mechanism of action of warfarin? Which clotting factors are affected?
Blocks vitamin K reductase which prevents the production of clotting factors It prevents the carboxylate the glutamic acid which resides in the clotting factors which allows clotting Factors II, VII, IX, X
314
What is GTN spray?
Nitric oxide donor. Causes vasodilation (cyclic GMP- interferes with smooth muscle contraction causing vessel relaxation
315
How does simvastatin lower cholesterol?
It is a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor which is a rate limiting step in cholesterol synthesis
316
Aspirin is an anti-coagulant. How does it work?
It is a cyclooxygenase inhibitor on platelets which prevents thromboxane synthesis. Thromboxane normally activates platelets and causes vasoconstriction
317
What is congestive heart failure?
When the heart does not work efficiently to meet tissue demand Congestive means there is a backlog of blood (pooling) in the venous system
318
What is furosemide? How does it work?
A loop diuretic. It blocks the Na/K/Cl cotransporter in the ascending limb, so water is not absorbed in the descending limb
319
Why are recreational drugs abused?
They target the reward pathway in the brain. | Dopinergic neurons have cell bodies in the ventral tegmental area which project to the nucleus accumbens
320
What are the different routes of administration of recreational drugs?
- Intranasal - Oral - Inhalation - Intravenous
321
What is the fastest route of administration of recreational drugs?
Inhalation Drug diffuses across alveoli and enters the pulmonary circulation. It then returns to the heart and immediately into the systemic circulation (to the brain)
322
What are the different classifications of drugs of abuse?
- Narcotics/painkillers - opiate like drugs e.g. heroin - Depressants - 'downers' e.g. alcohol, benzodiazepines (valium), barbiturates - Stimulants - 'uppers' e.g. cocaine, amphetamine ('speed'), caffeine, metamphetamine ('crystal meth') Miscellaneous e.g. Cannabis, Ecstasy (MDMA)
323
In what order does cannabis accumulate in the tissues?
1) Blood 2) Brain 3) High perfusion tissues 4) Low perfusion tissues 5) Fat
324
How long after smoking cannabis will the effects persist in the body? Where is it detected?
For 30 days in fat
325
What is the relationship between plasma cannabinoid concentration and degree of intoxification?
There is a poor correlation
326
What is cannabis converted to in the liver? How does this compound compare to cannabis?
Converted to 11-hydroxy-THC | This is more potent
327
What are the pharmacokinetics of cannabis?
Liver → 11-hydroxy-THC GIT → 65% Bile → enterohepatic recycling Urine → 25%
328
What receptors does cannabis act on?
CB₁ and CB₂ receptors
329
Where are CB₁ receptors?
In the brain - Hippocampus - Cerebellum - Cerebral cortex - Basal ganglia
330
Where are CB₂ receptors found?
Immune cells
331
What is the mechanism of action of cannabis stimulating euphoria?
Cannabis binds to CB₁ receptors which decreases GABA firing to the ventral tegmental area. This then increases dopamine release to the nucleus accumbens (disinhibition)
332
How does cannabis cause psychosis?
The Anterior Cingulate Cortex has a major role in performance monitoring with behavioural adjustment in order to avoid losses (e.g. stop talking when driving requires more concentration) Heavy cannabis user experience hypoactivity in the ACC
333
How does cannabis influence food intake?
1. Presynaptic inhibition of GABA (by cannabis binding to CB₁) increases MCH (melanin concentrating hormone) neuronal activity 2. Increased orexin production MHC and orexin stimulation makes you hungry
334
What effect does cannabis have on immunity?
CB₂ receptors are found on immune cells - B cells - T cells - NK cells - Macrophages - Mast cells
335
What effect does cannabis have on memory?
Causes memory loss - Limbic regions (Amnestic effects / ↓ BDNF) BDNF = Brain derived neurotrophic factor
336
What effect does cannabis have on the medulla?
Low CB₁ receptor expression in the medulla which means it is very difficult (impossible) to fatally overdose on cannabis- no effect on CVS
337
What are the pharmaceutical properties of cannabis?
Multiple sclerosis / pain / stroke - regulatory Fertility / obesity - pathology Up-regulation of CB₁ receptors in the adipose tissue of the genetically obese compared with lean mice
338
What is Dronabinol? What is it used for?
Cannabis based drug Used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy in people who have already taken other medications to treat this type os nausea without good results. Used to treat loss of appetite and weight loss in people who have AIDS
339
What types of cocaine can you take intravenously, orally or intranasally?
Paste → 80% cocaine | Cocaine HCl → dissolve in acidic solution
340
What types of cocaine can be taken by inhalation?
Crack → precipitate with alkaline solution (e.g. baking soda) Freebase → dissolve in non-polar solvent )e.g. ammonia + ether)
341
Why does oral cocaine have slow absorption?
pKa = 8.7 | Ionized in the GIT so it is absorbed slowly
342
How and where is cocaine metabolised?
Metabolised by cholinesterase in the liver and in the blood plasma
343
How do the pharmacokinetics of cocaine contribute to the addictive potential of the drug?
T½ = 20-90 minutes - Very quick breakdown means it will be taken again and again. - Very fast speed of onset which makes it more addiactive. - Inhaled - Cleared from the body very quickly
344
What is the effect of high dose cocaine?
Local anaesthetic effect by blocking sodium channels
345
At low levels how does cocaine cause euphoria?
Cocaine is a monoamine reuptake inhibitor or neurotransmitters (e.g. seratonin, dopamine etc)
346
What effect does cocaine have on dopamine's affinity and efficacy for the dopamine receptor?
Cocaine has no effect on the affinity or efficacy of dopamine for the receptor. It causes a build up of dopamine in the synapse of the nucleus accumbens
347
What are the positive effects of dopamine?
- Mood amplifications (euphoria and dysphoria) - Heightened energy - Sleep disturbance - Motor excitement (restlessness) - Talkativeness - Increased sexual interest - Anger, verbal aggression - Mild to moderate anorexia
348
What are the negative effects of cocaine?
- Irritability, hostility, anxiety, fear, withdrawal - Extreme energy or exhaustion - Total insomnia - Compulsion - Rambling, incoherent speech - Decreased sexual interest - Possible extreme violence - Total anorexia - Delusions of grandiosity
349
How does cocaine cause myocardial infarction?
- Cocaine stimulates the sympathetic nervous system by inhibiting catecholamine reuptake at sympathetic nerve terminals, stimulating sympathetic outflow and increasing the sensitivity of adrenergic nerve endings to noradrenaline. - Also acts like a class I antiarrhythmic agent (local anaesthetic) by blocking sodium and potassium channels which depresses cardiovascular parametres - Stimulates the release of endothelin-1, a potent vasoconstrictor, from endothelial cells and inhibits nitric oxide production, the principle vasodilator produced by endothelial cells - Activates platelets, increasing platelet aggregation promoting thrombosis
350
What are the volatile substances in cigarettes?
- Nitrogen - Carbon monoxide/dioxide - Benzene - Hydrogen cyanide
351
What are particulates in cigarettes?
- Alkaloids | - Tar
352
What are the different ways of administering nicotine and the associated doses? How much of each type of each administration is absorbed?
Nicotine spray- 1mg (20-50%) Nicotine gum- 2-4mg (50-70%) Cigarettes- 9-17mg (20%) Nicotine patch- 15-22mg/day (70%)
353
Where is nicotine absorbed?
pKa of nicotine is 7.9 but cigarette smoke is acidic so it is not absorbed in the buccal cavity Absorption in alveoli independent of pH
354
How is nicotine metabolised?
70-80% is converted to Cotinine by Hepatic CYP2A6
355
What is the half life of nicotine?
T½ = 1-4 hours
356
What are the pharmacodynamics of nicotine?
Nicotine is an agonist on nicotinic receptors so has a profound effect on the nervous system - Nicotine binds to nicotinic ACh receptors on cell bodies in the ventral tegmental area - Stimulates release of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens
357
What are the effects of nicotine on the cardiovascular system?
↑ sympathetic stimulation (CNS and adrenals) ↑ Heart rate and systolic volume Vasodilation of skeletal muscle arterioles ↑ lipolysis, FFA, VLDL ↓ HDL ↑ TXA₂ (platelet activation) ↓ NO No effect on lung function (only effect is due to components of smoke)
358
What effect does nicotine have on the metabolism and weight?
↑ metabolic rate | Nicotine is an appetite suppressant so reduces smokers weight
359
What effect does nicotine have on neurodegenerative disorders?
Nicotine is protective against neurodegenerative disorders
360
How does nicotine prevent Parkinson's disease?
Nicotine increases brain CYPs which metabolise neurotoxins which cause Parkinson's disease
361
How does nicotine prevent Alzheimer's disease?
↓ β-amyloid toxicity | ↓ amyloid precursor protein
362
How does caffeine affect the reward pathway?
Caffeine is an adenosine (A1) receptor antagonist so it can induce euphoria by blocking the effects of adenosine - Caffeine increases dopamine release - Adenosine binds to A1 receptors- decreases the release of dopamine and decreases D1 receptor function
363
How do you calculate the number of units in an alcoholic drink?
Units = [%ABV x volume(ml)] / 1000
364
What is the recommended safe level of alcohol to consume per week?
Men and women ≤ 14 units / week
365
How many units of alcohol consumed in one sitting is classed as binge drinking?
>8 units
366
What is the legal driving limit blood alcohol level? How many drinks is this?
0.08% | 1 drink
367
What effect does drinking on a full stomach have on your blood alcohol level?
Speed of onset ∝ Gastric emptying Drinking on a full stomach slows the speed of gastric emptying so the speed of onset of the alcohol is slower If you drink on a full stomach the alcohol is retained in the stomach for longer and it is not absorbed Fluid stimulates gastric emptying so on an empty stomach it would go straight into the duodenum and be absorbed
368
Where is alcohol metabolised to acetaldehyde? What enzymes are involved?
``` Alcohol → acetaldehyde (toxic) 1) 85% in the liver (first pass hepatic metabolism) Enzymes: - Alcohol dehydrogenase (75%) - Mixed function oxidase (25%) 2) 15% in the GIT Enzyme: - Alcohol dehydrogenase ```
369
What does a breath test measure?
Unmetabolised alcohol in your breath
370
What enzyme is responsible for increased alcohol tolerance?
Mixed function oxidase | It is upregulated in heavy alcohol consumption
371
What is the difference between blood alcohol levels in men and women who consume the same amount of alcohol?
♀ body water: 50% ♂ body water: 59% Alcohol is fairly water soluble. Men have more body water and women have more adipose tissue so alcohol is better distributed and dissolved in men Women also have less alcohol dehydrogenase
372
What is acetaldehyde converted to? What enzyme is involved?
Acetaldehyde → Acetic acid Enzyme: - Aldehyde dehydrogenase
373
What causes asian flush?
A polymorphism in aldehyde dehydrogenase
374
What drug is used is alcohol aversion therapy? How does it work?
Disulfiram Causes acetaldehyde from breaking down acetaldehyde which is toxic, and therefore produces unwanted negative effects to be experienced
375
What is the primary effect of alcohol? What is this dependent on?
``` Depressant effect Degree of CNS excitability ↙︎ ↘︎ Environment Personality ↙︎ ↘︎ Non-social Social setting setting ```
376
What are the acute effects of alcohol on the CNS?
1. GABAa receptor: positive effect on function by post-synaptic and pre-synaptic influence- increases production of steroid (allopregnenolone) 2. NMDA firing rate is reduced (enhances an excitatory transmitter) 3. Reduces neurotransmitter exocytosis (decrease Ca²⁺ channels)
377
What is the potency and selectivity of ethanol?
Low potency Low selectivity Alcohol is a small straight forward molecule which binds to a lot of targets and influences a lot of symptoms (if large amount in the system) so it has large effects very easily
378
How does alcohol have an effect in the limbic system?
Minds to μ-receptors which decreases GABA firing. Not a selective agonist like opiates so does not have as powerful an effect as heroin
379
How does alcohol cause cutaneous vasodilation?
↓ Ca²⁺ entry ↑ Prostaglandins Though to be the effect of acetaldehyde
380
How does chronic alcohol consumption cause increased blood pressure?
- Centrally mediated decrease in baroreceptor sensitivity leads to an acute increase in heart rate. - Alcohol diminishes the brains control of arteriole baroreceptors
381
How does alcohol cause diuresis (polyuria)?
``` Acetaldehyde has an effect on the posterior pituitary by preventing vasopressin secretion Less vasopressin (ADH) means more water excretion ```
382
A deficiency in what is the reason for disorders associated with the CNS resultant from chronic alcohol consumption?
Thiamine
383
What CNS conditions are associated with chronic alcohol abuse? Briefly explain.
``` 1) Dementia Cortical atrophy / ↓ volume cerebral white matter 2) Ataxia Cerebellar cortex degeneration 3) Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome Thiamine deficiency 4) Wernicke's encephalopathy 3rd ventricle and aqueduct 5) Korsakoff's psychosis Dorsomedial thalamus ```
384
What is Wernicke's encephalopathy?
Neuropsychiatric condition characterised by the triad ophthalmoplegia, ataxia and confusion (only 10% experience all three) Caused by overwhelming metabolic demands on brain cells that have depleted intracellular thiamine (vit B1)
385
What is Korsakoff's psychosis?
Associated with polyneuritis | Characterised by an impaired ability to acquire new information and substantial, irregular memory loss
386
How does chronic alcohol consumption result in a fatty liver?
Metabolism of alcohol uses NAD⁺ to produce NADH. This disrupts the dehydrogenase-related reactions in the cytoplasm and mitochondria (TCA and β-oxidation of fatty acids) thereby suppressing energy supply and fatty acid oxidation This also diverts NAD⁺ from normal functions such as glycolysis to alcohol metabolism. Acetyl CoA (unable to enter the citric acid cycle) are transformed to ketones
387
How does hepatitis result from chronic alcohol abuse?
Mixed function oxidase enzyme generates free radicals. These free radicals generate an inflammatory stimulus, which if prolonged, releases cytokines This is reversible
388
How does cirrhosis result from chronic alcohol abuse?
After hepatitis is the alcohol consumption is prolonged the liver will get cirrhosis - Decreased hepatocyte regeneration - Increased fibroblasts - Decreased active liver tissue
389
What are the benefits of low dose alcohol consumption?
↓ Mortality from coronary artery disese ↑ HDLs ↑ tPA levels / ↓ platelet aggregation Some evidence that it is specifically wine
390
What are the effects of chronic alcohol consumption of the GIT?
Damage to gastric mucosa ∝ dose | Acetaldehyde could be carcinogenic
391
What are the effects of chronic alcohol consumption on the endocrine system?
↑ ACTH secretion ↓ Testosterone secretion Effects sex steroid function
392
What causes a hangover after drinking alcohol?
``` Negative symptoms occur when blood alcohol reaches 0 - Nausea: Irritant → Vagus → Vomiting centre - Headache Vasodilation - Fatigue Rebound excitation = poor sleep quality - Restlessness and muscle tremors 'Rebound' - Polyuria and polydipsia ↓ ADH secretion ```
393
What are the different procoagulants in the blood?
- Prothrombin - Factors V, VII-XIII - Fibrinogen
394
What are the different anticoagulants in the blood?
- Plasminogen - TFPI (Tissue factor pathway inhibitor) - Proteins C & S - Antithrombin
395
What type of process is haemostasis?
A physiological process | - Blood coagulation prevents excessive loss of blood
396
What type of process if thrombosis?
A pathophysiological process | - Blood coagulates within blood vessel → obstructs blood flow
397
What is a red thrombus?
Venous thromboses | - High fibrin component
398
What type os process if atherosclerosis?
A pathophysiological process - thrombus forms within an atherosclerotic plaque Plaque rupture → thrombus released into lumen (ischaemia)
399
What is a white thrombus?
Arterial thromboses | - High platelet components
400
What is Virchow's traid for thrombus formation?
1. Rate of blood flow Blood flow is slow/stagnating → no replenishment of anticoagulant factors and balance adjusted in favour of coagulation 2. Consistency of blood Natural imbalance between procoagulation and anticoagulation factors e.g. Factor V leiden 3. Blood vessel wall integrity Damaged endothelia → blood exposed to procoagulation factors
401
What is the cell-based theory of coagulation?
1. Initiation Small scale production of thrombin 2. Amplification Large scale thrombin production on the surface of platelets 3. Propagation Thrombin mediated generation of fibrin strands
402
What is the process of initiation in coagulation?
Small scale thrombin production 1. Tissue factor (TF) TF bearing cells activate factors X and V forming → prothrombinase complex 2. Prothrombinase complex This activates factor II (prothrombin) creating factor IIa (thrombin) 3. Antithrombin (AT-III) AT-III → initiates fIIa and fXa
403
How does Dabigatran cause anticoagulation? How is it administered?
Inhibits factor IIa | Oral
404
How does Rivaroxaban cause anticoagulation? How is it administered?
Factor Xa inhibitor | Oral
405
How does Heparin cause anticoagulation? How is it administered?
Activates AT-III (↓fIIa and ↓fXa) | IV or SC
406
What is Dalteparin? How does it cause anticoagulation?
A low-molecular weight heparin | Activates AT-III (↓fXa)
407
How does Warfarin cause anticoagulation? How is it administered?
A vitamin K antagonist | Vitamin K is required for the generation of factors II, VII, IX and X
408
What are the uses of anticoagulant drugs which target initiation?
Venous thrombosis - Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism - Thrombosis surgery - Atrial fibrillation - prophylaxis of stroke
409
What drug inhibits factor Xa?
Rivaroxaban
410
What drug activates AT-III?
Heparin | also Dalteparin
411
What drug inhibits factor IIa?
Dabigatran
412
What is the process of amplification in coagulation?
``` Platelet activation and aggregation 1. Thrombin Factor IIa → activates platelets 2. Activated platelet - Changes shape - Becomes 'sticky' and attaches other platelets ```
413
What is the process of platelet activation?
- Thrombin binds to protease-activated receptor (PAR) on platelet surface - PAR activation → rise in intracellular Ca²⁺ - Ca²⁺ rise → exocytosis of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) from dense granules 1. ADP receptors - ADP activates P2Y₁₂ receptors → platelet activation / aggregation 2. Cyclo-oxygenase (COX) - PAR activation → liberates arachadonic acid (AA) - COX generates thromboxane A₂ (TXA₂) from AA 3. Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor (GPIIb/IIIa) - TXA₂ activation → expression of GPIIb/IIIa integrin receptor on platelet surface - GPIIb/IIIa - involved in platelet aggregation
414
How does Clopidogrel prevent platelet activation? How is it administered?
ADP (P2Y₁₂) receptor antagonist | Oral
415
How does Aspirin prevent platelet activation? How is it administered?
Irreversible COX-1 inhibitor- inhibits production of TXA₂ | Oral
416
How is Abciximab administered?
IV or SC | Only used by specialists
417
What are the indications of drugs which target platelet activation?
Arterial thrombosis - Acute coronary syndromes - myocardial infarction - Atrial fibrillation - prophylaxis of stroke
418
What is the process of propagation in coagulation?
``` Generation of fibrin strands 1. Activated platelets Large-scale thrombin production 2. Thrombin Factor IIa → binds to fibrogen and convert to fibrin strands ```
419
How do thrombolytics works?
Convert plasminogen → plasmin | Plasmin - protease degrades fibrin
420
How does Alteplase work as a thrombolytic? How is it administered?
Recombinant tissue type plasminogen activator (rt-PA) | IV
421
What are the indications of thrombolytics?
Arterial and venous thrombosis DO NOT remove preformed clots - Stroke - first-line treatment - ST- elevated MI
422
What is deep vein thrombosis? How does it cause pulmonary embolism?
Red thrombus → deep vein of the leg (e.g. popliteal vein) Caused by: - ↓ rate of blood flow - Damage to endothelium thrombus detachment → pulmonary embolism (PE)
423
How is DVT or pulmonary embolism managed?
Restore balance between coagulants and anti-coaulants - ↓ levels of anticoaulant - Anticoagulants
424
What is a NSTEMI?
Non-ST elevated myocardial infarction (MI) - 'White' thrombus → partially occluded coronary artery Caused by: - Damage to endothelium - Atheroma formation - Platelet aggregation
425
How is NSTEMI managed?
``` Reduce lipid accumulation Reduce platelet aggregation Prevent further arterial occlusion - ↓ platelet activation / aggregation - Anti-platelets ```
426
What is a STEMI?
``` ST-elevated myocardial infarction - 'White' thrombus → fully occluded coronary artery Caused by: - Damage to endothelium - Atheroma formation - Platelet aggregation ```
427
How is a STEMI managed?
``` Reduce lipid accumulation Reduce platelet aggregation Dissolve thrombus Prevent death - ↓ Platelet activation / aggregation - Dissolve clot - Anti-platelets and thrombolytics ```
428
What is the difference between haemostasis and thrombosis?
Haemostasis is a physiological process preventing blood loss, whereas thrombosis is a pathophysiological process
429
What is the main risk factor for atherosclerosis?
Age
430
What is the main difference between LDL and HDL?
Surface apoproteins (these allow the lipoproteins to circulate) HDL- Apoprotein A-1 LDL- Apoprotein B
431
What is the exogenous pathway of lipid metabolism?
Intestine- dietary triglycerides and cholesterol ↓ Chylomicron ↙︎ ↘︎ FFA Chylomicron remnant ↙︎ ↘︎ ↙︎ ↘︎ Skeletal Adipose Liver Atheroma muscle tissue
432
What enzyme turns VLDLs to smaller LDLs? | Large VLDL → Small VLDL
Hepatic lipase
433
What enzyme turns LDLs to larger VLDLs? | IDL → Small VLDL
Lipoprotein lipase
434
Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory process. What cell is involved in this?
Macrophages | They get into the subepithelial space and are converted to foam cells, forming the core of the atheromatous plaque
435
What is the process of development of an atherosclerotic plaque?
1. LDL moves into the subendothelium 2. LDL is oxidised by macrophages and smooth muscle cells 3. Release of growth factors and cytokines which attract additional macrophages 4. Macrophages become foam cells which accumulate and smooth muscle cell proliferation result in the growth of the plaque
436
What contributes to endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis?
Increased endothelial permeability → Upregulation of endothelial adhesion molecules →Leukocyte adhesion → Migration of leukocytes into the artery wall Endothelium becomes leaky
437
What contributes to fatty streak formation in atherosclerosis?
- Adherence and entry of leukocytes - Migration of smooth muscle cells - Activation of T cells - Adherence and aggregation of platelets - Formation of foam cells
438
What contributes to the formation of the complicated atherosclerotic plaque?
- Formation of the fibrous cap - Accumulation of macrophages - Formation of necrotic core
439
What are the different types of atherosclerotic lesion?
1. Coronary artery at lesion-prone location - Adaptive thickening (smooth muscle 2. Type II lesion - Macrophage foam cells 3. Type III (preatheroma) - Small pools of extracellular lipid 4. Type 4 (atheroma) - Core of extracellular lipid 5. Type V (fibroatheroma) - Fibrous thickening 6. Type VI (complicated lesion) - Thrombus - Fissure and haematoma
440
What inherited condition causes atherosclerosis to occur in teenage years?
Familial hypercholesterolaemia
441
What type of lipoproteins cause inflammation in atherosclerosis?
Remnant lipoproteins
442
What is the difference between a vulnerable and stable plaque in atherosclerosis?
In stable plaques the lumen and lipid core is separated by a thick layer of mostly collagen. This is not the case in vulnerable plaques which have a thin layer
443
A 10% increase in LDL cholesterol results in how much increase in risk of CHD?
20%
444
What effect does HDL cholesterol have on atherosclerosis?
Has a protective effect for risk of atherosclerosis and CHD | - The lower the HDL cholesterol level the higher the risk for atherosclerosis ad CHD
445
What causes HDL level to be lower?
- Smoking - Obesity - Physical inactivity
446
How do statins effect the cholesterol synthesis pathway?
- Block HMG-CoA reductase which prevents production of cholesterol from acetyl-CoA - Increases LDL receptors on hepatocytes, which then internalise LDL and break it down
447
What is the newest and least potent statin?
Rosuvastatin
448
How do NSAIDs work>
``` Inhibit the synthesis of prostanoids - Lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid - Prostaglandins and thromboxanes - Receptor mediated NSAIDs inhibit Cyclo-oxygenases (COX-1 and -2) This inhibits production of PGH₂ which then produces - Prostacyclin -PGI₂ - PGE₂ - PGD₂ - PGF₂∝ - Thromboxane A₂ ```
449
What isoform of COX is inhibited by ibuprofen?
Both COX-1 and COX-2
450
What isoform of COX is inhibited by NSAIDs of the Coxib family? Give an example of these drugs
Inhibits COX-2 | e.g. celecoxib
451
What are the different prostanoid receptors?
- DP1, DP2 - EP1, EP2, EP3, EP4 - FP - IP1, IP2 - TP
452
What type of receptor are prostanoid receptors?
G protein-coupled
453
What receptors are activated by PGE₂?
EP1 EP2 EP3 EP4
454
What are the unwanted actions of PGE₂?
- Increased pain perception* - Thermoregulation* - Acute inflammatory response* - Immune responses - Tumorigenesis - Inhibition of apoptosis * Targeted by NSAIDs
455
How does PGE₂ increase pain perception?
Stimulation of PG receptors sensitises the nociceptors which cause pain both acutely and chronically
456
What effect does PGE₂ have on body temperature?
PGE₂ stimulates hypothalamic neurones initiating a rise in body temperature
457
What is the role of PGE₂ in acute inflammation?
- Irritants stimulate keratinocytes to release PGE₂ | - PGE₂ binds to EP3 on mast cells which initiates a cascade resulting in histamine release and release of IL-6
458
What are the desirable physiological actions of prostanoids?
- Gastroprotection - Renal salt and water homeostasis - Bronchodilation - Vasoregulation (dilation and constriction depending on receptor activated)
459
How is PGE₂ involved in gastric cytoprotection?
- Downregulates HCl secretion | - Stimulates mucus and bicarbonate secretion
460
How do NSAIDs contribute to ulceration?
COX-1 mediated | Less mucus production to protect the stomach plus increased HCl secretion
461
How is PGE₂ involved in salt and water homeostasis?
COX-1 and COX-2 control the glomerulus COX-2 controls reabsorption in the ascending limb of the loop of Henle COX-1 controls reabsorption in the collecting duct
462
How do NSAIDs cause renal toxicity?
- Constriction of afferent renal arteriole - Reduction in renal artery flow - Reduced glomerular filtration rate
463
Why do some asthmatics experience worsening symptoms with NSAIDs?
- COX inhibitor. Blocks production of PGE₂ from arachidonic acid - PGE₂ is a bronchodilator - This causes increased production of leukotreines (using lipoxygenase enzyme) which is a bronchoconstrictor - PGE₂ inhibits lipoxygenase so reduces leukotreines - LT4 is the most prominent leukotreine in the lungs
464
What are the unwanted effects of NSAIDs on the CVS?
- Vasoconstriction - Salt and water retention - Reduced effect of antihypertensives Increased risk of: - Hypertension - Myocardial infarction - Stroke
465
What are the deaths from NSAIDs caused by?
1. CVS - Stroke - MI 2. GI bleed
466
What are the effects of COX-2 on the CVS?
COX-2 inhibitors pose higher risk of CVD than conventional NSAIDs Mechanism is unclear - Enhanced probability of coronary atherothrombosis - Increased risk of heart failure - Increased long-term CV risk
467
What strategies other than COX_2 selective NSAIDs limit the GI side effects?
- Topical application - Minimise NSAID use in patients with history of GI ulceration - Treat H. pylori if present - If NSAID is essential, administer with omeprazole or other proton pump inhibitor - Minimise NSAID use in patients with other risk factors and reduce risk factors where possible (e.g. alcohol consumption, anticoagulant or glucocorticoid steroid use)
468
What is the mechanism of NSAID Aspirin?
Unique among NSAIDs - Selective for COX-1 - Binds irreversibly to COX enzymes - Has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-pyretic actions - Reduces platelet aggregation
469
What causes the anti-platelet actions of aspirin?
- Very high degree of COX-1 inhibition which effectively suppresses TXA₂ production by platelets - Covalent binding which permanently inhibits platelet COX-1 - Relatively low capacity to inhibit COX-2 - Need low dose to allow endothelial resynthesis of COX-2
470
What are the major side-effects of Aspirin?
- Gastric irritation and ulceration - Bronchospasm in sensitive asthmatics - Prolonged bleeding times - Nephrotoxicity - Side effects are more likely with aspirin than other NSAIDs because it inhibits COX covalently, rather than its selectivity for COX
471
What happens if you overdose on paracetamol?
Paracetamol forms a toxic metabolite (NAPQI) in overdose which is then converted to an inactive reduced form by Glutathione S-transferase - If glutathione is depleted the metabolite oxidises thiol groups of key hepatic enzymes and causes cell death - Will result in irreversible liver failure
472
What is the antidote for paracetamol poisoning?
- Add compound with -SH groups - Usually intravenous Acetylcysteine (in cases of attempted suicide) - Occassionally oral methionine - If not administered early enough, liver failure may be unpreventable
473
What are the guidelines on paracetamol sales?
- Pack size restricted to 16 x 500mg tablets - No more then 2 packs per transaction - Illegal to sell more than 100 paracetamol in one transaction
474
Inhibition of which enzyme will reduce platelet aggregation with the fewest side effects?
Thromboxane A₂ synthase | - TXA₂ causes platelet aggregation, but not much else
475
Assertion: Inhibition of PGI₂ synthesis by low-dose aspirin decreases the risk of stroke Reason: Decreased PGI₂ reduces platelet aggregation
Assertion: False Reason: False Synthesis of PGI₂ (prostacyclin) is inhibited by low-dose aspirin, but it is not this action which decreases the risk of stroke, because PGI₂ actually reduces platelet aggregation. It's te inhibition of thromboxane synthesis
476
What type of receptor is found on postganglionic receptors?
Nicotinic receptors (receives signals from preganglionic neurons)
477
Where are muscarinic receptors found? Specifically what types of receptor?
Receives signals from postganglionic M1→ Brain M2→ Heart M3→ Everything else
478
Why are the effects of ACh transient?
It is broken down by acetylcholinesterase after a few seconds
479
The action of ACh in the respiratory tract mimics the stimulation of which nerve?
Vagus nerve
480
What is airway resistance? What factors contribute to airway resistance?
Resistance to the flow of air into the lungs due to surface area - Bronchoconstriction - Mucus secretion - Inflammatory response (histamine and cytokines promote oedema) - COPD (causes reduction in surface area) - Intubation - Parasympathetic nervous system contributes to airway resistance by stimulating bronchoconstriction
481
How would an antimuscarinic agent help a patient with COPD who smokes?
- Cigarette smoking causes inhalation of irritants into the lungs which stimulates the PNS to induce bronchoconstriction - PNS stimulates muscarinic receptors to induce bronchoconstriction. An antimuscarinic would prevent this - If you stop smoking the irritants will clear so the PNS stimulation will stop
482
What side effects might a patient experience after treatment with an oral muscarinic antagonist?
- Constipation (interferes with gut activity and secretions) - Tachycardia - No sweating - Reduced secretions - Impaired vision - Dysregulation of bladder function
483
Muscarinic antagonists have a range of side effects. How would these be avoided when treating a smoker with COPD?
- Selective for M3 receptor - Administered by inhalation so low dose can be given straight to target tissue - Make drug less lipid soluble so it can diffuse across the alveoli
484
Why does antihistamine not treat asthma?
Because histamine is not the only contributor to asthma symptoms
485
What endogenous mediators may contribute to the bronchoconstriction observed in patients with asthma?
- Histamine - Leukotreines - Antibody mediated (IgE) - Prostaglandins
486
What precautions should an asthmatic take if they want to play sports?
- Take β2 agonist (e.g. Salbutamol) | - Warm up (exercise) prior to intense exercise
487
When comparing a transdermal and oral NSAID in sensitive asthmatics should the different routes of administration influence the severity of bronchoconstriction?
- Depends on the dose - Transdermal is the best route of administration- it has to be lipid soluble to be administered this way, and will diffuse readily into the blood stream - Oral administration has more barriers
488
What is the rational for using a leukotreine antagonist (e.g. montelukast) in an asthmatic to allow them to take NSAIDs?
- Stops bronchoconstriction - NSAID sensitive asthmatics have upregulated leukotreines so blocking this will prevent bronchoconstriction in the lungs
489
What is the physiological vomiting pathway?
- A deep breath is taken, the glottis is closed and the larynx is raised to open the upper oesophageal sphincter. Also, the soft palate is elevated to close off the posterior nares. - The diaphragm is contracted sharply downward to create negative pressure in the thorax, which facilitates opening of the oesophagus and distal oesophageal sphincter - Simultaneously with downward movement of the diaphragm, the muscles of the abdominal wall are vigorously contracted, squeezing the stomach and thus elevating intragastric pressure. With the pylorus closed and the oesophagus relatively open, the route of exit is clear
490
What are the consequences of severe vomiting?
- Dehydration - Loss of gastric H⁺ and Cl⁻ ions may lead to hypochloaemic metabolic alkalosis (↑ blood pH) - Contributes to a reduction in renal bicarbonate excretion and an increase in bicarbonate reabsorption; accompanied by increased Na⁺ reabsorption in exchange for K⁺, leading to hypokalaemia
491
What pathways feed into the vomiting centre in the brain?
- CNS - Vestibular system - Chemoreceptor trigger zone (area postrema) - Vomiting centre (nucleus of tractus solitarius) - GI tract and heart
492
What parts of the CNS contribute to vomiting?
- Cortex - Thalamus - Hypothalamus - Meninges
493
What part of the vestibular system contributes to vomiting?
- H₁ receptor | - M₁ receptor
494
What part of the chemoreceptor trigger zone contributes to vomiting?
- Chemoreceptors - D₂ receptors - NK₁ receptor - (5-HT₃ receptor)
495
What part of the vomiting centre contributes to vomiting?
- Chemoreceptors - D₂ receptors - NK₁ receptor - (5-HT₃ receptor)
496
What part of the GI tract and heart contributes to vomiting?
- Mechanoreceptors - Chemoreceptors - 5-HT₃ receptor
497
What factors affect the vestibular system to induce vomiting?
- Motion | - Labyrinth disorders
498
What factors affect the chemoreceptor trigger zone to induce vomiting?
- Drugs - Metabolic products - Bacterial toxins
499
What factors affect the peripheral pathways to induce vomiting?
- Mechanical stretch (e.g GI obstruction or stasis) - GI mucosal injury (e.g. metastases, candida infection, GERD, radiation therapy, chemotherapy) - Local toxins and drugs
500
What factors affect the cortex to induce vomiting?
- Sensory input - Anxiety - Meningeal irritation - Increased intracranial pressure
501
What is the mechanism of action of promethazine?
Mixed receptor antagonists - Competitive antagonist at histaminergic (type H₁), cholinergic (muscarinic, M) and dopaminergic (type D₂) receptors - Order of potency of antagonistic activity: H₁>M>D₂ receptors - Acts centrally (vestibular nucleus, CTZ, vomiting centre) to block activation of vomiting centre
502
What is the use of promethazine as an anti-emetic?
- Motion sickness - normally used prophylactically, but some benefit may be gained if it is taken after the onset of nausea and vomiting - Disorders of the labyrinth e.g. Meniere's disease - Hyperemesis gravidarum - Pre-and post-operatively (sedative and anti-muscarinic action are also useful)
503
What are the pharmacokinetics of promethazine?
- Administered orally - Onset of action 1-2 hours - Maximum effect circa 4 hours - Duration of action 24 hours
504
What are the unwanted effects or promethazine?
- Dizziness - Tinnitus - Fatigue - Sedation - Excitation in excess - Antimuscarinic sid-effects
505
Give examples of dopamine receptor antagonists
- Metoclopramide | - Domperidone
506
What is the mechanism of action of dopamine (D2) receptor antagonists?
- Acts centrally, especially at chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) - Prokinetic effects in the GI tract by blocking the inhibitory effect of dopamine on myenteric motor neurons (which suppress intestinal motility) - Increases smooth muscle motility (from oesophagus to small intestine) - Accelerated gastric emptying - Accelerates transit of intestinal contents (from duodenum to ileo-coecal valve)
507
What are the uses of metoclopramide and domperidone?
To treat nausea and vomiting associated with: - Uraemia (severe renal failure) - Radiation sickness - GI disorders - Cancer chemotherapy (high doses) e.g. cisplatin (intractable vomiting) - Parkinson's disease treatments with stimulate dopaminergic transmission in chemoreceptor trigger zone (e.g. L-DOPA, DA agonists) Not effective against motion sickness
508
What are the pharmacokinetics of metoclopramide or domperidone?
- May be administered orally; rapidly absorbed; extensive first pass metabolism. May also be given I.V. - Metoclopramide crosses the BBB - Crosses the placenta
509
What is the significance of dopamine receptor antagonists with co-administered drugs?
- Absorption and hence effectiveness of digoxin may be reduced - Nutrient supply may be compromised; especially important in conditions such as diabetes mellitus
510
What are the side effects of metoclopramide in the CNS?
No anti-psychotic actions - Drowsiness - Dizziness - Anxiety - Extrapyramidal reactions: children more susceptible than adults (Parkinsonian-like syndrome: rigidity, tremor, motor restlessness)
511
What are the side effects of D2 receptor antagonists in the endocrine system?
- Hyperprolactinaemia - Galactorrhoea - Disorders of menstruation
512
What is the mechanism of action of hyoscine?
Acts centrally, especially in the vestibular nuclei and CTZ to block activation of vomiting centre
513
What is the order of antagonistic potency of metoclopramide?
D₂ >> H₁ >>> Muscarinic receptors
514
What is the order of antagonistic potency of hyoscine?
Muscarinic >>> D₂ = H₁
515
What are the uses of hyoscine as an anti-emetic?
- Prevention of motion sickness - Has little effects once nausea/emesis is established - In operative pre-medication
516
What are the pharmacokinetics of hyoscine?
Can be administered orally (peak effect in 1-2 hours), intravenously or transdermally
517
What are the side effects of hyoscine?
Typical anti-muscarinic side effects: - Drowsiness - Dry mouth - Cycloplegia (paralysis of the ciliary muscle of the eye, loss of accommodation) - Mydriasis
518
What is the mechanism of action of ondansetron?
Acts to block transmission in visceral afferents and CTZ
519
What are the uses of ondansetron as an anti-emetic?
- Main use in preventing anticancer drug-induced vomiting, especially cisplatin - Radiotherapy-induced sickness - Post-operative nausea and vomiting
520
What are the pharmacokinetics of ondansetron?
Administered orally, well absorbed, excreted in urine
521
What are the side effects of ondansetron?
- Headache - Sensation of flushing and warmth - Increased large bowel transit time (constipation)
522
What is ondansetron used in conjunction with? Why?
Used alone the efficacy may wear off - 5-HT₃ receptor antagonists may be used for low emetogenic chemotherapy - Corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone, may be used in combination with 5-HT₃ receptor antagonists for high or moderately high emetogenic chemotherapy - Improved efficacy of combined therapy may be due to anti-inflammatory properties of corticosteroids
523
How can cannabinoids be used as anti-emetics?
- δ9-tetrahydrocannacinol (THC) isolated from marijuana or the synthetic agent Nabilone - Effective at treating emesis from anti-cancer drugs which other antiemetic's are not very effective against e.g. Cisplatin - Act at a number of cited within the CNS via the CB1 receptors which are located pre-synaptically and decrease the release of neurotransmitters associated with triggering the vomiting process - Also inhibit prostaglandin synthesis which has been implicated in emesis from anti-cancer drugs
524
What are the risk factors for IBD?
1. Genetic predisposition - People of white European origin most susceptible 2. Environmental factors which could include: - Smoking (especially CD) - Diet / obesity (diseases of affluence) - Gut microbiome 3. Obesity is a risk factor for CD, but not UC
525
What is the progression of the defective interaction between mucosal immune system and gut flora in IBD?
Complex interplay between host and microbes ↓ Disrupted innate immunity and impaired clearance ↓ Prof-inflammatory compensatory responses ↓ Granuloma formation and physical damage
526
What immune cells and cytokines mediate the response in Crohn's disease?
Th1-mediated e.g. IFNγ, TNFα, IL-17, IL-23 Florid T cell expansion Defective T cell apoptosis
527
What immune cells and cytokines mediate the response in Ulcerative Colitis?
Th2-mediated e.g. IL-5, IL-13 Limited clonal expansion Normal T cell apoptosis
528
What layers and regions of the gut are affected in IBD?
CD: All layers; any part of the gut (patchy) UC: Mucosa/submucosa; rectum, spreading proximally (continuous)
529
What supportive therapies are used for an acutely sick IBD patient?
- Fluid/electrolyte replacement - Blood transfusion/oral iron - Nutritional support (malnutrition common)
530
What is the use of aminosalicylates in IBD?
``` Ulcerative Colitis - First line in inducing and maintaining remission - Good evidence base Crohn's Disease - Literature unclear - Ineffective in inducing remission - Less clear cut than utility in UC ```
531
Give examples of aminosalicylates.
- Mesalazine: 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) - Olsalazine (2 linked 5-ASA molecules) - Anti-inflammatory
532
What is the mechanism of action of 5-ASA?
- Inhibition of IL-1, TNF-α and platelet activating factor (PAF) - Decreased antibody secretion - Non-specific cytokine inhibition - Reduced cell migration (macrophages) - Localised inhibition of immune responses
533
Where is mesalazine and olsalazine absorbed?
``` Mesalazine: - Absorbed in the small bowel and colon Olsalazine - Metabolised by colonic flora - Absorbed in the colon ```
534
What is the result of research into 5-ASA?
- More effective than a placebo - Safe drug - Superior to topical steroids in inducing remission in ulcerative colitis
535
What is the use of glucocorticoids in IBD?
Ulcerative Colitis: - Use of glucocorticoids in decline - Can be used topically (enema) or I.V. if very severe - Evidence that aminosalicylates superior Crohn's Disease - GCs remain drugs of choice for inducing remission - Likely to get side effects if used to maintain remission
536
What are glucocorticoids? Give examples.
Powerful anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs Derived from cortisol Activate intracellular glucocorticoid receptors which can then act as positive or negative transcription factors e.g. Prednisolone, fluticasone, budesonide
537
How are the unwanted effects of glucocorticoids minimised?
- Administer topically - fluid or foam enemas or suppositories - Use a low dose in combination with another drug - Use an oral or topically administered drug with high hepatic first pass metabolsim (e.g. Budesonide) so little escapes into the systemic circulation (used in mild cases as budesonide worse at inducing remission in active CD)
538
Give examples of immunosuppressive agents and their applications.
``` Azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine - No advantage over placebo in active CD - Some success in UC Methotrexate - Efficacy in some IBD patients Cyclosporin - In severe UC only ```
539
What are the uses of azathioprine?
- Immunosuppressive - Mainly used to maintain remission in CD (allows reduction in glucocorticoids) - Slow onset- 3-4 months treatment for clinical benefit
540
What are the pharmacodynamics of azathioprine?
It is a prodrug - Activated by gut flora to 6-mercaptopurine - Give 6-mercaptopurine directly - Purine antagonist
541
What are the effects of azathioprine on immune responses?
It impairs: - Cell- and antibody-mediated immune responses - Lymphocyte proliferation - Mononuclear cell infiltration - Synthesis of antibodies It enhances: - T cell apoptosis
542
What are the unwanted effects of azathioprine?
- Nearly 10% of patients have to stop treatment because of side effects - Pancreatitis - Bone marrow suppression - Hepatotoxicity - Increased risk (~4 fold) of lymphoma and skin cancer
543
What is the significance of azathioprine with gout treatment?
Allopurinol treats gout. It inhibits Xanthine oxidase involved in metabolism of 6-MP (from azathioprine) which diverts metabolism down other pathways, increasing associated side effects
544
What is the use of methotrexate in Crohn's disease?
- Induces and maintains remission - Acts as a folate antagonist - Reduces synthesis of thymidine and other purines - Not widely used as monotherapy significant unwanted effects
545
What are the potentially curative therapies for IBD?
1. Manipulation of the microbiome 2. Biologic therapies - Anti-TNFα (e.g. Infliximab) - Anti-α-4-integrin (e.g. Natalizumab)
546
What techniques are used for manipulation of the microbiome?
1. Nutrition-based therapies - No evidence for probiotics in CD - Evidence for maintenance of remission in UC 2. Faecal microbiota replacement (FMT) therapies - Insufficient evidence for FMT - More studies needed 3. Antibiotic Treatment (Rifaximin) - Interferes with bacterial transcription by binding to RNA polymerase - Induces and sustains remission in moderate CD - May be beneficial in UC - May be microbiome modulator
547
What is the use of anti-TNFα in IBD?
- Used successfully in the treatment of CD - 60% patients respond within 6 weeks - Potentially curative - Successful in some patients with refractory disease and fistulae - Some evidence of effectiveness in UC
548
What is the mechanism of action of anti-TNFα?
- Reduces activation of TNFα receptors in the gut - Reduces downstream inflammatory events - Also binds to membrane associated TNFα - Induces cytolysis of cell expressing TNFα - Promotes apoptosis of activated T cells
549
What are the pharmacokinetics of infliximab?
- Give I.V. - Very long half-life (9.5 days) - Benefits can last for 30 weeks after a single infusion - Most patients relapse after 8-12 weeks - Therefore repeat infusion every 8 weeks
550
What are the problems with infliximab?
- Emerging evidence that up to 50% of responders lose response within 3 years time due to production of anti-drug antibodies and increased drug clearance - Attempts being made to optimise dosing regimens
551
What are the adverse effects of infliximab?
- 4x-5x increase in incidence of TB - Also risk of reactivating dormant TB - Increased risk of septicaemia - Worsening of heart failure - Increased risk of demyelinating disease - Increased risk of malignancy - Can be immunogenic- azathioprine reduces risk, but raises TB/malignancy risk
552
In IBD why does budesonide cause fewer unwanted systemic effects than prednisolone?
It is metabolised and inactivated locally
553
What drugs can be used to treat gastric and duodenal ulcers?
1. Antibiotics 2. Inhibitors of gastric acid secretion 3. Cytoprotective drugs 4. Antacids 5. Triple therapy
554
What is peptic ulcer disease?
Area of damage to the inner lining of - the stomach (gastric ulcer) OR - Upper part of the duodenum (duodenal ulcer)
555
What is the difference between pain from a gastric ulcer and a duodenal ulcer? What is the occurence of both?
Gastric ulcer: Pain at mealtimes when gastric acid is secreted Duodenal ulcer: Pain relieved by a meal as pyloric sphincter closes; pain 2-3 hours after a meal Occurrence: duodenal:gastric 4:1
556
What are the protective factors which ensure integrity of the gastrointestinal mucosa?
Lubricate ingested food and protect the stomach and duodenum from attack by acid and enzymes: 1. Mucous from gastric mucosa creates gastrointestinal mucosal barrier 2. HCO₃⁻ ions trapped in mucous generate a pH or 6-7 at mucosal surface 3. Locally produced prostaglandins stimulate mucous and bicarbonate production (paracrine action) and inhibit gastric acid secretion
557
What secretions in the stomach have the potential to damage the mucosal barrier?
1. Acid secretion from parietal cells of the oxyntic glands in the gastric mucosa 2. Pepsinogens from chief cells which can erode the mucous layer
558
What factors may cause damage to the mucosal gastrointestinal barrier?
- Increased acid and/or decreased bicarbonate production - Decreased thickness of mucosal layer - Increase in pepsin type I - Decreased mucosal blood flow - Infections with Helicobacter pylori may also play a role in pathogenesis of gastric cancer
559
What are the risk factors of peptic ulcer disease? What is the prevalence?
Risk factors: - Genetic predisposition - Stress - Diet, alcohol, smoking Prevalence: 1:10 of the population in developed countries
560
How do you test patients for Helicobacter pylori?
Patients swallow urea labelled with an uncommon isotope, either radioactive carbon-14 or non-radioactive carbon-13. In the subsequent 10-30 minutes the detection of isotope-labelled carbon dioxide in exhaled breath indicates that urea was split; this indicates that urease (which H. pylori uses to metabolise urea) is present in the stomach, so hence there is H. pylori present
561
What is the rational for antibiotic therapy in patients with a peptic ulcer?
- 50-80% are chronically infected - 10-20% will go on to develop peptic ulcer disease or neoplasm - Almost 100% of patients with duodenal ulcer and 80-90% with gastric ulcer are infected - Current therapy aims for 90% eradication within 7-14 days
562
What are the methods of transmission of H. pylori?
Uncertain: - Socioeconomic conditions - Contact with animals and contaminated faeces
563
What is the best practice in treating peptic ulcer disease?
Triple therapy: 1. Antibiotics (a single antibiotic is not sufficiently effective) 2. Drugs which reduce gastric acid secretion 3. Drugs which promote healing
564
What are the different types of gastric acid secretion inhibitors?
- Proton pump inhibitors - Histamine type 2 (H₂) receptors - Anti-muscarinics
565
What is the process of gastric acid secretion and it's control?
Parietal cells secrete HCl (pH < 1). The principle stimuli on parietal cells are: 1. Acetylcholine from the vagal nerve of PANS 2. Gastrin, stimulatory hormone produced in the antrum in response to food and vagal PANS, gastrin then releases histamine from the H cells which acts on the parietal cells 3. Prostaglandins E2 and I2 are local hormones that inhibit acid production and promote a good blood supply. Gastrin also indirectly increases pepsinogen secretion, stimulates blood flow and increases gastric motility. Secretin regulates water homeostasis and the pH of the duodenum Somatostatin inhibits release of gastrin from G cells and histamine from H cells Inhibitors of gastric acid production: - Secretin - GIP (gastric inhibitory peptide)
566
What are proton pump inhibitors? What is their mechanism of action? Give an example.
e.g. Omeprazole Inhibits the basal and stimulated gastric acid secretion from the parietal cells by >90% Mechanism of action: - Irreversible inhibitors of the H⁺/K⁺ATPase - Inactive at neutral pH - As it is a weak base it accumulates in the cannaliculi of parietal cells; this concentrates its action there and prolongs its duration of action (2-3 days) and minimises its effect on ion pumps elsewhere in the body
567
What are the uses of proton pump inhibitors?
- Peptic ulcers which are resistant to H₂ antagonists - Component of triple therapy - Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), oesophagitis - Prophylaxis of peptic ulcers in the intensive care setting, and among high-risk patients prescribed aspirin, NSAIDs, as antiplatelets and anticoagulants
568
What are the pharmacokinetics of proton pump inhibitors?
Orally active; administered as an enteric coated slow-release formulation
569
What are the side effects of proton pump inhibitors?
Rare (short term use) Long-term and/or high-dose administration associated with several potential side effects e.g. enteric infections (Clostridium difficile), community acquired pneumonia, and hip fracture
570
What are histamine type 2 (H₂) receptor antagonists? What is the mechanism of action? Give examples
Inhibits gastric acid secretion from the parietal cells by ~60% and are less effective at healing ulcers than PPIs Mechanism of action: - Competitive antagonism of H₂ histamine receptors e.g. Cimetidine, ranitidine
571
What are the pharmacokinetics of histamine type 2 receptor antagonists
Orally administered, well absorbed Ranitidine is longer acting than cimetidine
572
What are the side effects of H₂ receptor antagonists?
Rare (dizziness, headache) Fewer side effects with Ranitidine (Zantac, available OTC) Relapses likely after withdrawal of treatment, >90% recurrence within 1 year after initial healing
573
What is the use of antimuscarinics in peptic ulcer disease?
- Little use as anti-ulcer drugs alone | - More effective combination therapies
574
What are cyto-protective drugs? Give examples
These drugs enhance mucosal protection mechanisms and/or build a physical barrier over the ulcer E.g. - Sucralfate - Bismuth chelate - Misoprostol
575
What is sucralfate? How does it act?
It is a polymer containing aluminium hydroxide and sucrose octa-sulphate Mechanism: - Acquires a strong negative charge in an acid environment - Binds to positively charged groups in large molecules (proteins, glycoproteins) resulting in gel-like complexes, these coat and protect the ulcer, limit H⁺ diffusion and pepsin degradation of mucus - Increases prostaglandin, mucous and HCO₃⁻ secretion and reduces the number of H. pylori
576
What are the side effects of Sucralfate?
Most of the orally administered Sucralfate remains in the GIT which may cause constipation or reduced absorption of some other drugs (e.g. antibiotics and digoxin)
577
What is Bismuth Chelate (Pepto-bismol)? What are its uses?
- Acts like sucralfate - Used in triple therapy (in cases where resistance to drugs has been shown) - Anti-inflammatory actions in the stomach - Weak antibiotic and antacid properties
578
What is Misoprostol? How does it act?
It is a stable prostaglandin analogue. Orally administered Mechanism: Mimics the action of locally produced prostaglandin to maintain the gastroduodenal mucosal barrier
579
What are the uses of Misoprostol?
May be co-prescribed with oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) when used chronically NSAIDs block the COX enzyme required for prostaglandin synthesis from arachidonic acid Therefore, there is a reduction in the natural factors that inhibit gastric acid secretion and stimulate mucus and HCO₃⁻ production
580
What are the unwanted effects of Misoprostol?
- Diarrhoea - Abdominal cramps - Uterine contractions (not to be given during pregnancy)
581
What are antacids? How are they administered?
Mainly salts of Na⁺, Al₃⁺ and Mg₂⁺ - Sodium bicarbonate has rapid effects - Aluminium hydroxide and magnesium trisilicate have slower actions Taken orally; primarily used for non-ulcer dyspepsia (OTC)
582
What is the mechanism of action of antacids?
- Neutralise acid, raises gastric pH, reduces pepsin activity - May be effective in reducing duodenal ulcer recurrence rates
583
What are the problems associated with triple therapy?
- Compliance - Resistance to antibiotics (may be superseeded by vaccination) - Adverse response to alcohol (metronidazole interferes with alcohol metabolism)
584
What is gastroesophageal reflux disease?
Stomach and duodenal contents reflux into the oesophagus (oesophagitis) - occasional and uncomplicated GERD - heartburn, may treat by self medication with antacids and H₂ antagonists (OTC) - chronically may progress to pre-malignant mucosal cells and potentially oesophageal adenocarcinoma
585
How do you treat gastroesophageal reflux disease?
PPIs (drug of choice) or H₂ antagonists (less effective) Combine with drugs that increase gastric motility and emptying of the stomach e.g. Dopamine D2 receptor antagonist (metoclopramise)
586
What is the incidence of serious adverse drug reaction?
6.7%
587
What percentage of hospital admissions are due to adverse drug reactions?
0.3-7%
588
What percentage of adverse drug reactions are preventable?
30% to 60%
589
What is the classification of adverse drug reactions?
- Onset - Severity - Type
590
What are the different types of onset of adverse drug reactions?
``` Acute - Within 1 hour Sub-acute - 1 to 24 hours Latent - > 2 days ```
591
What are the different severities of adverse drug reactions?
``` Mild - requires no change in therapy Moderate - requires change in therapy, additional treatment, hospitalisation Severe - disabling or life-threatening ```
592
What is a severe adverse drug reactions?
- Results in death - Life-threatening - Requires or prolongs hospitilisation - Causes disability - Causes congenital anomalies - Requires intervention to prevent permanent injury
593
What is a type A adverse drug reactions? Give examples of drugs which cause type A reactions
- Extension of pharmacological effect - Usually predictable and dose dependent - Responsible for at least two-thirds of ADRs - e.g. atenolol and heart block, anticholinergics and dry mouth, NSAIDs and peptic ulcer; paracetamol; digoxin
594
What is a type B adverse drug reactions? Give examples of drugs which cause type B reactions
- Idiosyncratic or immunologic reactions - Includes allergy and "pseudoallergy" - Rare (even very rare) and unpredictable - 1/10,000 people: irreversible and mostly fatal - e.g. chloramphenicol and aplastic anaemia, ACE inhibitors and angiodema
595
What is a type C adverse drug reactions? Give examples of drugs which cause type C reactions
- Associated with long-term use - Involves dose accumulation - e.g. methotrexate and liver fibrosis, antimalarials and ocular toxicity
596
What is a type D adverse drug reactions? Give examples of drugs which cause type D reactions
- Delayed effects (sometimes dose independent) - Carcinogenicity (e.g. immunosuppressants) - Teratogenicity (e.g. thalidomide)
597
What are the different types of type E adverse drug reactions? Give examples of causes of each type of reaction
Withdrawal reactions - Opitates, bencodiazepines, corticosteroids Rebound reactions - Clonidine, β-blockers, corticosteroids "Adaptive" reactions - Neuroleptics (major tranquillisers)
598
What is clonidine? What happened during withdrawal?
A potent antihypertensive. Makes you drowsy and tired Missed doses will cause the blood pressure to suddenly increase causing strokes or death in some cases Usually given in long acting preparations to prevent this from happening
599
What is the ABCDE classification of adverse drug reactions?
``` A Augmented pharmacological effect B Bizarre C Chronic D Delayed E End-of-treatment ```
600
What are the different types of allergic reactions? Give examples of the causes of each
``` Type I - immediate, anaphylactic (IgE) - e.g. anaphylaxis with penicillins Type II - cytotoxic antibody (IgG, IgM) - e.g. methyldopa and haemolytic anaemia Type III - serum sickness (IgG, IgM) - antigen-antibody complex - e.g. procainamide-induced lupus Type IV - delayed hypersensitivity (T cell) - e.g. contact dermatitis ```
601
Give examples of pseudoallergies. What are the mechanisms behind each?
Aspirin/NSAIDs - bronchospasm - bronchospasm affects mainly asthmatics - blocking cyclooxygenase pathways which usually makes prostaglandins- AA is converted to leukotreines ACE inhibitors - cough/angioedema - ACE inhibitors stop the breakdown of inflammatory proteins (bradykinin) which irritate sensory nerves in the lungs and cause a cough
602
What are the common causes of adverse drug reactions?
- Antibiotics - Antineoplastics* - Anticoagulants - Cardiovascular drugs* - Hypoglycemics - Antihypertensives - NSAID/Analgesics* - CNS drugs* *account for ⅔ of fatal ADRs
603
What is the relationship between adverse drug reactions frequency and drug use?
Polypharmacy increases adverse drug reactions The higher the number of drugs the higher the frequency of adverse drug reaction
604
What are the different methods of reporting adverse drug reactions?
``` Subjective report - patient complaint Objective report - direct observation of event - abnormal findings • physical examination • laboratory test • diagnostic procedure ```
605
What is the yellow card scheme?
- Introduced in 1964 after thalidomide - Run by the Committee on Safety of Medicines (part of the Medicines Control Agency) - Entirely voluntary - Can be used by doctors, dentists, nurses, coroners and pharmacists - Includes blood products, vaccines, contrast media - For established drugs only report SERIOUS adverse reactions (fatal, life-threatening, needing hospital admission, disabling) - For "black triangle" drugs ∇ (newly licensed, usually <2 years) report any suspected adverse reaction
606
What are pharmaceutical interactions?
Drugs interacting outside the body (mostly IV infusions)
607
What are pharmacodynamic drug interactions?
Additive, synergistic or antagonistic effects from co-adminitration of two or more drugs - Synergistic actions of antibiotics - Overlapping toxicities - ethanol and benzodiazepines - Antagonistic effects - anticholinergic medications (amitriptyline and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors)
608
What are the effects of pharmacokinetic drug interactions?
- Alteration in absorption - Proteins binding effects - Changes in drug metabolism - Alteration in elimination
609
How do pharmacokinetic drug interactions alter absorption of a drug?
Chelation - Irreversible binding of drugs in the GI tract (stops absorption of the drug and prevents entry into the circulation) - Tetracyclines, quinolone antibiotics - ferrous sulfate (Fe²⁺), antacids (Al³⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺), dairy products (Ca²⁺)
610
How do pharmacokinetic drug interactions affect protein binding interactions of a drug?
Competition between drugs for protein or tissue binding sites - Increase in free (unbound) concentration may lead to enhanced pharmacological effect Many interactions previously thought to be PB interactions were found to be primarily metabolism interactions PB interactions are not usually clinically significant but a few are (mostly with warfarin)
611
What are the different types of drug metabolism and elimination?
1. Drug excreted unchanged by the kidney 2. Phase 1 - original drug altered but then cleared by the liver or kidney 3. Drug altered once then altered again before being excreted by the kidney (Drug converted from lipid to water soluble so it is easier to excrete in the kidney)
612
What is phase I metabolism?
- Oxidation - Reduction - Hydrolysis
613
What is phase II metabolism?
Conjugation - Glucuronidation - Sulphation - Acetylation
614
What happens to drug metabolism with coadministration of other drugs?
Drug metabolism is inhibited or enhanced by coadministration of other drugs - CYP 450 system has been most extensively studied Phase 2 metabolic interactions (glucoronidation, etc) occur, research in this area is increasing
615
What is the metabolism of CYP 450 substrates?
Metabolism by a single isozyme (predominantly) - few examples of clinically used drugs - examples of drugs used primarliy in research on drug interactions Metabolism by multiple isozymes - Most drugs metabolised by more than one isozyme • Imipramine: CYP2D6, CYP1A2, CYP3A4, CYP2C19 - If co-administered with CYP450 inhibitor, some isozymes may "pick up slack" for inhibited isozyme
616
What CYP450 isozyme metabolises the largest proportion of drugs?
CYP3A4
617
What drugs inhibit CYP 450?
- Cimetidine - Erythromycin and related antibiotics - Ketoconazole etc - Ciprofloxacin and related antibiotics - Ritonavir and other HIV drugs - Fluoxetine ad other SSRIs - Grapefruit juice (Many HIV drugs are potent inhibitors of CYP 450)
618
What drugs are CYP 450 inducers?
- Rifampicin - Carbamazepine - (Phenobarbitone) - (Phenytoin) - St John's wort (hypericin)
619
Give examples of drug elimination interactions? Where do they occur?
Almost always in renal tubule - Probenecid + penicillin (Good- induces elimination of penacillin) - Lithium + thiazides (Bad- Causes toxic accumulation in the blood as thiazides reduce clearance of the drug. Toxic and potentially lethal)
620
Give examples of deliberate coadministered drug interactions. How do they work?
Levodopa + carbidopa - Allows lower doses to be used because not broken down in the periphery ACE inhibitors + thiazides - Enhance each other's antihypertensive effects Penicillins + gentamycin - Due to severe staphylococcal infections Salbutamol + ipratropium - Treatment of asthma and COPD
621
What are the important functional groups in morphine?
- Tertiary nitrogen: Important to anchor the drug to the receptor; also determines if the drug is an agonist or an antagonist - Two hydroxyl groups which prevent the drug from easily passing through lipid membranes
622
What is the difference between the structure of heroin and morphine? What difference does this make to the drug?
The two hydroxyl side chains in morphine have been acetylated in heroin. This makes the drug pass through lipid membranes easily
623
What is the structural difference between morphine and codeine? What effect does this have on the drug?
The 3 position hydroxyl group in morphine is converted to CH₃OH in codeine. It is effectively methyl codeine Decreases the potency of the drug, as it changes the metabolism
624
What is the difference between morphine and methadone?
In methadone there is only a tertiary nitrogen but the phenyl group and quaternary carbon remain
625
What is the difference between morphine and fentanyl?
Very powerful but it only has a tertiary carbon
626
What are the pharmacokinetics of opioid administration? How is it administered?
Given orally; it is ionised in the stomach (pKa>8); relatively well absorbed in the small intestine. Heavily metabolised in the liver- extensive first pass metabolism. Only ~20% opioids get into the blood. The solution if to inject the drug- But still enters the brain relatively slowly
627
What are the pharmacokinetics of methadone or fentanyl?
They are far more lipid soluble than morphine Fentanyl cay be given as a patch- will cross the skin It is very addictive; can be administered sub-lingually
628
Why is methadone used to ween people off heroin over fentanyl?
Methadone and fentanyl are more lipid soluble than heroin and therefore more potent. Fentanyl has fast metabolism and so would wear off quickly whereas methadone has slow metabolism so is long lasting.
629
What is codeine a prodrug of?
Morphine
630
What are the different endogenous opioid peptides?(What opiate receptors do they bind to?)
- Endorphins (μ or δ) - Enkephalins (δ) - Dynorphins/neoendorphins (κ)
631
Where are the μ opiate receptors located? What do they influence?
- Thalamus - Amygdala - Nucleus accumbens - PAG Pain/mood/CVS
632
Where are the δ opiate receptors located? What do they influence?
- Nucleus accumbens - Cerebral cortex - Amygdala Pain/mood/CVS
633
Where are the κ opiate receptors located? What do they influence?
- Hypothalamus Appetite
634
What is the cellular mechanism of opiate receptors?
They depress the CNS. Three basic mechanisms 1. Hyperpolarisation (increase K efflux) 2. Decrease Ca inward current 3. Decrease adenylate cyclase activity (causing a general decrease in cellular activity)
635
What are the effects of opioids?
- Analgesia* - Euphoria* - Depression of cough centre (anti-tussive)* - Depression of respiration (medulla) - Stimulation of chemoreceptor trigger zone (nausea/vomiting) - Pupillary constriction - G.I. effects
636
What analgesic effect do opioids have?
- Decrease pain perception | - Increase pain tolerance
637
What is the process of modulation of pain transmission?
Recognise - Pain sensed in the periphery - Relayed to dorsal horn - Spinothalamic tracts relay to thalamus - Sent to cortex to add emotional input (exaccerbate pain Depress (pain tolerence pathway) - PAG (peri aquaductal grey region): integrating centre for pain tolerance (signals from thalamus and cortex) - NRM (nucleus raffae magnus): initiating point of effecting arm (signal from PAG) - NRM depresses pain from dorsal horn - LC (locus correliois): sympathetic nervous system reduces pain signalling (acts on dorsal horn) - NRPG (nucleus reticularis paragigantocellularis): INDEPENDENT. Automatically regulates pain tolerence before rest of brain (reflex) by activating NRM
638
What role does the hypothalamus play in modulation of pain transmission?
Regulates PAG response based on health
639
How does NRM depress pain from the dorsal horn?
1. Automatically depresses signal from the dorsal horn (not processed) 2. Activates the substantia gelatinosa (mini brain of spinal cord) for further processing of signals- which then acts on dorsal horn
640
Where do opioids act in the pain pathway?
- Periphery - Dorsal horn - NRPG - PAG
641
How do opioids cause euphoria?
- Opiates act on μ receptor - This reduces GABA firing (GABA inhibits VTA (ventral tegmental area) - Reduced firing stops inhibition which causes release of dopamine = EUPHORIA
642
What is the cough pathway?
1. Stimulation of mechanoreceptors or chemoreceptors (throat, respiratory pathway or stretch receptors in lungs) 2. Afferent impulses to cough centre (medulla) 3. Efferent impulses via parasympathetic and motor nerves to diaphragm, intercostal muscles and lung 4. Increased contraction of diaphragmatic, abdominal and intercostal muscles = cough
643
How do opioids have an anti-tussive effect?
1. Prevent relay of sensory via Ach/NK C-fibres info to vagus 2. Act directly on cough centre 3. Inhibit 5HT¹ᴬ receptors
644
How do opioids cause respiratory depression?
They interfere with central chemoreceptors so control centre can't respond to change in blood CO2 Act on respiratory centre which generates breathing rhythm
645
How do opioids induce nausea/vomiting?
Act on chemoreceptor trigger zone which induces nausea (probably interference with GABA)
646
How do opioids cause miosis? What is the clinical relevance of this?
μ receptor on Edinger-Westphal nucleus in the preganglionic parasympathetic neurones to the eye. This is stimulates by opioids Essential to diagnose heroin overdose if the patient is unconscious with pin-point pupils
647
How do opioids cause GI disturbances?
μ and κ receptors are everywhere in the enteric nervous system and opioids activate them
648
What is urticaria? What is the significance of this in association with opioids?
Looks like an allergic reaction to opioids. Not fully understood. Opioids induce histamine release (in some patients)- not receptor mediated Influences pKA 6 position hydroxyl group has to be present to induce this response- SOLUTION switch the drug
649
How does tolerence occur with opioid use?
Not pharmacokinetic Chronic opioid use upregulates arrestin which causes over-intenalisation of opioid receptors which increases tolerence of opioids
650
How does dependence occur with opioid use?
All recreational drugs have psycological dependence but only a few have physical dependence - Cells upregulate adenylate cyclase to compensate for drug action - When you withdraw this disrupts cell metabolism (for 1-2 weeks)
651
What is the treatment for opioid overdose?
Naloxone Same structure as morphine but with long side chain on tertiary nitrogen group preventing it from activating the receptor (antagonist effect)
652
What can cause a difference in response to dose administration?
1. Error in prescription or dispensing 2. Patient non compliance 3. Drug formulation
653
What factors cause relative overdose or underdose?
1. Environmental exposure to chemical, inducing other drugs - Enzyme induction - Enzyme inhibition 2. Food intake - Drugs may interact chemically with components of food; this may alter their absorption - Foods delay gastric emptying and alter gastric pH 3. Fluid intake - Most drugs are better absorbed if taken with water (e.g. may dissolve better) - Fluids may stimulate gastric emptying 4. Age 5. Disease
654
How does age affect the response to a drug?
Newborn infants have: - more body water than adults - poorer renal function, with immature tubular secretion - an immature BBB - lower capacity for drug metabolism They elderly have an overall deterioration in many physiological functions that may affect: 1. Drug absorption: decreased absorptive surface of small intestine - Altered gastric and gut motility - Increased rate of gastric emptying 2. Drug distribution: reduced lean body mass and body water, relative increase in fat - Lipid soluble drugs have increased Vd and decreased blood levels - Water soluble drugs have decreased Vd and increased blood levels - Reduced plasma albumin, so fewer plasma protein binding sites 3. Drug metabolism - Splanchnic and hepatic blood flow decrease by 0.3-1.5%/year - Liver size and hepatocyte number decrease - Hepatic enzyme activity and induction capacity decrease 4. Drug excretion: changes in renal function are probably the most important factors affecting drug handling in the elderly. With age there is a steady decline in the following factors: - Reduced renal mass - Reduced renal perfusion - Reduced glomerular filtration rate - Reduced tubular excretion These changes are normal, may be compounded if the patient has renal disease 5. Organ sensitivity: the elderly tend to be more sensitive to CNS active drugs
655
How does disease affect the response to a drug?
1. General nutritional status - Unbalanced diets may lead to deficiency states and enzyme abnormalities - Starvation: decreased plasma protein binding and metabolism - Obesity: increased lipid fraction 2. GI disorders e.g. achlorhydria, coeliac disease, Crohn's disease - Altered drug metabolism 3. Congestive heart failure (especially in the elderly) may lead to: - Reduced splanchnic blood flow - Intestinal mucosal oedema - Reduced hepatic clearance 4. Kidney failure (especially in the elderly) may lead to: - Decreased drug excretion leading to toxicity - Water overload leading to changes in drug concentration in different body fluid compartments 5. Liver failure may lead to: - Reduced metabolism - Reduced first pass metabolism (hence increased bioavailability) - Decreased biliary secretion and hence decreased removal - Decreased albumin synthesis and hence reduced plasma protein binding 6. Other acute or chronic disease states
656
What effect does Clarithromycin have on Warfarin? What other drugs have this effect?
Warfarin and clarithromycin are metabolised by the same liver enzymes, so co-administration causes them to compete and means there is more active drug in the system for longer Other drugs: PPIs (e.g. omeprazole)
657
What effect does St. Johns wort have on Warfarin? What other drugs have this effect?
St Johns wort increases induction of liver enzymes and therefore increases metabolism of warfarin, reducing the amount of active drug in the system St John's wort is an antidepressant Other drugs: barbiturates
658
What must be checked before a dose of digoxin is increased? How would you ensure the dose of digoxin is correct?
Digoxin acts on the K⁺ binding site of the Na⁺K⁺ATPase to decrease heart rate so the blood K⁺ level must be monitored To ensure the correct dose of digoxin you can measure the level of digoxin in the blood
659
What would cause the difference in response to Temazepam in a young adult and an elderly patient?
Temazepam is relatively water soluble. The percentage of body fat is higher in the elderly therefore water soluble drugs will be more effective
660
Why would weight loss change the effect of Warfarin?
- Warfarin is >90% plasma protein bound so weight loss (muscle/protein loss) will decrease the plasma proteins and therefore increase the amount of active Warfarin in the system - Liver enzymes are also very dependent on nutritional status, so poor nutrition means there is decreased metabolism, so more drug remains in the blood and has greater effects.
661
What transport occurs across cells in the proximal convoluted tubule of the kidney?
H₂O and Na⁺ move down the concentration gradient (into the interstitium). Na⁺K⁺ATPase on basal membrane to actively pump Na⁺ out of cell to maintain the concentration gradient Carbonic anhydrase converts HCO₃⁻+H⁺→CO₂+H₂O to be moved into the cell, then converted back to HCO₃⁻+H⁺ and is them pumped out of cell into the interstitium with Na⁺ cotransporter; H⁺/Na⁺ exchanger (into tubule lumen from cell) is coupled to Glucose/AA transport
662
What ion transport occurs in the loop of Henle? Where does it occur?
Occurs in the ascending limb of the loop of Henle On apical membrane Na⁺2Cl⁻K⁺ co transporter moves ions into the cell and Na⁺K⁺ exchanger and K⁺Cl⁻ cotransporter move ions into the interstitium
663
What ions are transported in the distal tubule?
Na⁺Cl⁻ cotransporter from tubule into cell | Na⁺K⁺ exchanger and Cl⁻K⁺ cotransporter into interstitium
664
What ions are transported in the collecting duct?
Aldosterone in the cell drives Na⁺ reuptake ( delivered in the blood and diffuses into the cell) Binds to mineralocorticoid receptor (to nucleus) increases production of Na⁺ channels and Na⁺K⁺ATPase Vasopressin induces AQP2 to increase water resorption
665
What are the different classes of diuretics?
1. Osmotic diuretics 2. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors 3. Loop diuretics 4. Thiazides 5. Potassium sparing diuretics
666
How do osmotic diuretics work? Give an example
They are pharmacologically inert. Injected into the blood stream, they are filtered by the glomerulus but NOT reabsorbed No effect on Na⁺ reabsorption Increase the osmolarity of tubular fluid Decrease H₂O reabsorption where the nephron is permeable to water (i.e. proximal tubule, descending loop of Henle, collecting duct) e.g. Mannitol
667
How do carbonic anhydrase inhibitor diuretics work? Give an example
Act in the proximal convoluted tubule. Block carbonic anhydrase in the cell and on the apical membrane. Inhibit Na⁺ and HCO₃⁻ reabsorption in proximal tubule (increased retention in the urine). ↑ tubular fluid osmolarity/↓ osmolarity of medullary interstitium = ↓ H₂O reabsorption in the collecting duct Other effects: ↑ delivery of HCO₃⁻ to distal tubule, ↑ K⁺ loss e.g. acetazolamide
668
How do loop diuretics work? Give an example
Act on the Na⁺2CL⁻K⁺ cotransporter to effect the countercurrent mechanism ↑ tubular fuid osmolarity/↓osmolarity of meduallary interstitium = H₂O reabsorption in the collecting duct ↑ delivery of Na⁺ to distal tubule ↑ K⁺ loss (↑ Na+/K⁺exchange Lose Na⁺, Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ because there is a small leak of pottassium by blocking the cotransporter you are adjusting the membrane potential which means less reabsorption of Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ Causes up to 30% fluid loss e.g. furosemide
669
What is the mechanism of thiazide diuretics?
Acts in the distal convoluted tubule to block to the Na⁺Cl⁻ cotransporter which prevents NaCl reuptake which also reduces water reabsorption by increasing tubular fluid osmolarity Also ↑ delivery of Na⁺ to distal tubule and ↑ K⁺ loss (↑Na⁺K⁺ exchange) ↑ Mg²⁺ loss and ↑ Ca²⁺ reabsorption e.g. bendroflumethiazide
670
What diuretic would have the most powerful effect on renin secretion?
Chronic diuretic use (especially loop diuretics and thiazides) will result in resistance - Blood Na⁺ level will fall - Renin will be released in response to low Na⁺ entering the macula densa cell which will counter the effects of the diuretics
671
What are the different classes of K⁺ sparing diuretics? Give examples
- Aldosterone receptor antagonists (e.g. spironolactone) | - Inhibitors of aldosterone-sensitive Na⁺ channels (e.g. amiloride)
672
What is the mechanism of potassium sparing diuretics?
- Aldosterone receptor antagonists block the action of aldosterone on the mineralocorticoid receptor which reduces Na⁺ channels and Na⁺K⁺ATPase - Na⁺ channel inhibitors block the Na⁺ channels which prevents Na⁺ entry into the cell Increase tubular fluid osmolarity ↑ H⁺ retention Only 5% decrease in fluid output
673
What are the common side effects of diuretics? Which diuretics cause them and what is the mechanism?
Loop diuretics and Thiazides: - Hypovolaemia: ↑ NaCl in the tubule = ↑ water in the tubule (30% LD; 10% T) - Hyponatremia: ↑Na⁺ excretion (30% LD; 10% T) - Metabolic alkalosis: due to Cl⁻ excretion - Hypokalemia: Na⁺K⁺ exchange- Na⁺ passed to later parts of the nephron and then exchanged with K⁺ so large volumes are lost. - Hyperuricemia: drugs acting on different parts of the kidney are excreted across the cell to be excreted in the urine (different mechanisms across the kidney; usually by different transporters) e.g. Organic anion transporter clears uric acid in the blood, diuretics are also transported using this, so they compete. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors - Metabolic acidosis: due to HCO₃⁻ loss Potassium sparing diuretics - Hyperkalaemia: Less Na⁺K⁺ exchange
674
What diuretics are used to treat hypertension? Why use this type?
Thiazides 1st line treatment in most countries Particularly useful for salt sensitive hypertension - Initial response (4-6 weeks) due to ↓ plasma volume - After 4-6 weeks plasma volume restored - Chronic thiazides: ↓TPR - Activation of eNOS (endothelium), Ca²⁺ channel antagonism, opening of K(Ca) channel (smooth muscle
675
What conditions are treated with diuretics?
- Hypertension | - Heart failure
676
How do diuretics treat hypertension?
- Heart failure = ↓ CO - Body responds to ↓ CO by activating sympathetic nervous system and RAAS - which worsens the heart failure (by ↑ water retention + vasoconstriction) - Loop diuretics - 30% Na⁺ load- acute reduction in congestion - Chronic use associated with resistance as eventually RAAS will activate in response - Now add potassium sparing diuretics which tries to block rebound RAAS activation
677
What is the function of the presynaptics GABA receptors?
Negative feedback in response to high GABA concentrations
678
What is the process of GABA metabolism? Where are the enzymes located?
``` GABA ↓ GABA T (GABA Transaminase) Succinic Semialdehyde (SSA) ↓ SSDH (Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase) Succinic Acid ``` Mitochondrial enzymes
679
What drugs inhibit GABA metabolism in the brain? What is the overall effect of these drugs?
1. Sodium valproate (Epilim) 2. Vigabatrin (Sabril) Both anticonvulsant drugs used to treat epilepsy Cause a large ↑ in brain GABA
680
What is the mechanism of action of the GABAᴬ receptor complex?
Made up of 4 proteins 1. GABA receptor protein (GABA-R) 2. Benzodiazepine receptor protein (BDZ-R) 3. Barbiturates receptor protein (BARB-R) 4. GABA modulin GABA binds to the GABA-R and opens the Cl⁻ channel. GABA-R is linked to BDZ-R; binding BZD facilitates GABA action and enhances affinity of GABA-R for GABA. This is a reciprocated relationship Barbiturates bind to BARB-R and increase GABA action and binding but this relationship is not reciprocated
681
What is Bicuculline and Flumazenil?
Bicuculline: Competitive GABA antagonist Flumazenil: Competitive benzodiazepine antagonist
682
What affect do benzodiazepines and barbiturates have on the GABA receptor?
``` Allosteric action (need GABA to act on receptor) Benzodiazepines increase the frequency of Cl⁻ channel opening Barbiturates increase the duration of Cl⁻ channel opening Barbiturates are less selective than benzodiazepines (↓ excitatory transmission) ```
683
What are the clinical uses of benzodiazepines and barbiturates? Give examples
- Anaesthetics (barbiturates only: Thiopentone) - Anticonvulsants (Diazepam; Clonazepam; Phenobarbital) - Anti-spastics (Diazepam) - Anxiolytics - Sedatives / Hypnotics
684
What is an anxiolytic?
Removes anxiety without impairing mental or physical activity ("Minor tranquillisers)
685
What is a sedative?
Reduces mental and physical activity without producing loss of consciousness
686
What is a hypnotic?
Induces sleep
687
What is the clinical use of barbiturates? Give examples. What are the side effects?
Sedative/hypnotic - Amobarbital for severe intractable insomnia (t½ 20-25h) Unwanted effects (not drugs of 1st choice) - Low safety margins (depress respiration, overdosing lethal) - Alter natural sleep (↓REM) = hangovers/irritability - Enzyme inducers - Potentiate effect of other CNS depressants (e.g. alcohol) - Causes tolerance - Dependence: withdrawal symdrome (insomnia, anxiety, tremor, convulsions, death)
688
What are the pharmacokinetics of benzodiazepines? Give examples
``` Administration: - Well absorbed (orally) - Peak [plasma] ≈ 1h - IV vs status epilepticus (IV administration used to treat prolonged seizures) Distribution - Bind plasma proteins strongly - Highly lipid soluble (wide distribution) Metabolism - Usually extensive (liver) Excretion - Urine; glucuronide conjugates Duration of action (varies greatly) - Short - Long acting slow metabolism and/or active metabolites ``` e.g. Diazepam (t½ 32h) Oxazepam (t½ 8h) Temazepam (t½ 8 hours)
689
Give examples of anxiolytics.
(Long-acting) - Diazepam (Valium) - Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) - Nitrazepam Oxazepam is considered long-acting in cases of hepatic impairment as it is metabolised slowly
690
Give examples of sedative/hypnotics.
- Temazepam - Oxazepam Nitrazepam will aid sleep at night and have an anxyolytic effect during the day; or used to treat people who sleep at night but wake up very early in the morning
691
What are the advantages of using benzodiazepines?
Wide margin of safety: - Overdose→prolonged sleep (rousable) - Give flumazenil (shorter half life so need 2 doses) - Does not induce liver enzymes
692
What are the unwanted effects of benzodiazepines?
- Sedation, confusion, amnesia, ataxia (impaired manual skills) - Potentiate other CNS depressants (alcohol, barbs) - Tolerance (less that barbs; 'tissue' only) Dependence - withdrawal syndrome similar to barbs (less intense - Withdrawal slowly - Free [plasma] ↑ by coadministration e.g. aspirin, heparin
693
What is zopiclone?
- A short acting sedative/hyponotic (t½ ≈5g) -Acts at BZD receptors (cyclopyrrolong) Similar efficacy to BZ - Minimal hangover effects BUT dependency still a problem
694
Give examples of some anxiolytic drugs.
Some antidepressant drugs: - SSRIs - Effective/delayed response/popular Some antiepileptic drugs - e.g. Valproate, Tiagabine Some antipsychotic drugs - e.g. olanzapine, quetiapine - Marked side effects Propanolol - Improves physical symptoms (tachycardia: β₁; tremor: β₂) Buspirone - 5HT₁ᴬ agonist - Fewer side-effects (
695
Benzodiazepines are used to treat "panic attacks" and other anxiety states. By what mechanism do they produce their anti-anxiety effects?
Enhancement of the action of GABA at GABA-A receptors
696
Which of the following drugs is commonly used in the treatment of insomnia? 1. Thiopental 2. Phenytoin 3. Baclofen 4. Sodium valproate 5. Temazepam
5. Temazepam
697
What is the difference between Parkinson's and Schizophrenia?
Parkinson's is not enough dopamine | Schizophrenia is too much dopamine
698
What is the nigrostriatal system? What disease affects this system?
Control of movement Cell bodies originate in the substantia nigra zona compacta and project to the striatum Affected in Parkinson's
699
What is the mesolimbic system? What disease affects this system?
Involved in emotion Cell bodies originate in the ventral tegmental area and project to the nucleus accumbens, frontal cortex, limbic cortex and olfactory tubercule Affected in Schizophrenia
700
What is the tuberoinfundibular system?
Regulates hormone secretion | Short neurones running from the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus to the medial eminance and pituitary gland
701
What dopamine receptors make up the D1 and D2 family?
D1: D1 and D5 D2: D2, D3 and D4
702
What is dopamine produced from?
Tyrosine in the diet
703
How common is Parkinson's disease?
``` 1/1000 - general population 1/100 - > 60 years Mean age of onset is 65 Male:Female 4:1 ~8% of cases are familial Parkinson's disease 92% are Idiopathic Parkinson's disease: - environmental - oxidative stress - altered protein metabolism - risk gene ```
704
What are the cardinal signs of Parkinson's disease?
- Resting tremor - Rigidity (stiffness, limbs feel heavy/weak) - Bradykinesia (slow movement) - Postural abnormality - Unilateral onset - Spreads to bot sides of the body
705
What are the presenting symptoms of Parkinson's disease?
- Pill-rolling rest tremor - Difficulty with fine movements - micrographia - Poverty of blinking - Impassive face - Monotomy of speech and loss of volume of voice (lack of diaphragm control and loss of tone around vocal cords) - Disorders of posture - flexion of the neck and trunk - Lack of arm swing - Loss of balance - lack of righting reflex, retropulsion - Short steps, shuffling gait - Unilateral onset (does spread to both sides and worsen)
706
What are the non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease?
- Depression - Sleep disturbance - Pain - Taste and smell disturbances - Cognitive decline/Dementia Autonomic dysfunction - Constipation - Postural hypotension - Urinary frequency/urgency - Impotence - Increased sweating
707
What is the neuropathology of Parkinson's disease?
- Principally affected area- Substantia nigra (cell loss) - Putamen-projecting pathways degenerate significantly - Lewy bodies are present (defensive mechanism to protect against toxic altered proteins; eventually they spill out and cause toxicity) - Cell loss in locus coruleus - Other affected areas: dorsal vagus nucleus, nucleus basalis of mynert
708
When do symptoms appear in Parkinson's? Why is this?
``` Lose 80-85% of dopaminergic neurons and deplete 70% of the striatal dopamine bfore symptoms appear Compensatory mechanisms (e.g. neuron overactivity and upregulation of DA receptors) prevent appearance of symptoms ```
709
What system us used to stage Parkinson's disease?
``` Stages describe the affected areas Stage 1-2 - Dorsal motor nucleus of vagus - Raphe nucleus - Locus coerulus Stage 3: - Substantia nigra pars compacta Stage 4 - Amydala - Nucleus of Meynert - Hippocampus Stage 5-6 - Cingulate cortex - Temporal cortex - Frontal cortex - Parietal cortex - Occipital cortex ```
710
What is the rational for dopamine replacement therapy? What drug is used?
L-DOPA - DOPA is the precursor to dopamine, converted to dopamine in the brain by enzyme DOPA decarboxylase (DD) - DD is also present in peripheral tissues and 95% would be converted in the periphery causing nausea and vomiting - Inhibitors cannot cross the BBB so DOPA can be converted to dopamine in the brain Drug: Peripheral DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor + L-DOPA
711
What is the use of L-DOPA?
Treats hypokinesia, rigidity and tremor | effectiveness declines with time
712
What are the side effects of L-DOPA?
Acute - Nausea (prevented by Doperidone: peripheral acting antagonist) - Hypotension - Psychological effects - confusion, disorientation and nightmares Chronic - Dyskinesias: (abnormal limb and face movements) can occur within 2 years of treatment. - "On-Off" effects: rapid fluctuation in clinical state. Off periods last from minutes to hours
713
What receptors do Parkinson's treatments target?
Can only synthesise drugs which act on D2 receptors. | Drugs targeting D1 do not enter the brain
714
What are the actions of dopamine agonists? Give examples
- Act on D2 receptors - Bromocriptine, Pergolide, Ropinerol - Longer duration of action than L-DOPA - Smoother and more sustained response - Actions independent of dopaminergic neurones - Incidence of dyskinesia is less - Can be used in conjunction with L-DOPA
715
What are the adverse effects of dopamine agonists?
``` Common: confusion, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, hallucinations Rare: constipation, headache, kyskinesia Ergot structure (within chemical structure): causes a problem with heart valves Non-ergot structure: causes addictive behaviours (OCD, gambling etc) ```
716
What is Deprenyl (selegiline)?
MAO inhibitor - Selective for MAO-B, predominates in dopaminergic areas of CNS. Actions are without peripheral side effects of none-selective MAO-I's - Can be given alone in the early stages of disease - Or in combination with L-DOPA, reduce the dose of L-DOPA by 30-50% - Side effects are rare: hypotension, nausea/vomiting. confusion and agitation
717
What is Resagiline?
MAO inhibitor Shown to have neuroprotective properties by inhibiting apoptosis - promotes anti-apoptosis genes. Early clinical trials suggest that this drug may slow the disease down but subsequent studies not so positive
718
What is the action of COMT?
Catechol-O-methyl transferase CNS- Breaks down catecholamines (e.g. dopamine) in the brain Periphery- Converts L-DOPA to 3-OMD which compete for the same transport system across the BBB
719
What is the action of COMT inhibitors? Give examples. What are the side effects?
CNS- Prevents the breakdown of dopamine in the brain Peripheral- Stop 3-OMD formation and thus increasing the penetration of L-DOPA across the BBB thus increasing brain concentrations, where it is converted to dopamine. Allows L-DOPA dose reduction Side effects: cardiovascular complications (can cause heart attack)
720
What are the clinical features of schizophrenia?
``` Positive symptoms: - Hallucinations - Delusions - Disorganised thoughts Negative symptoms: - Reduced speech - Lack of emotion and facial expression - Diminished ability to begin and sustain activities - Diminished ability to find pleasure - Social withdrawal Cognitive deficits: - Memory - Attention - Planning - Decision making ```
721
What is the role of genetics in Schizophrenia?
Strong genetic tendency 1st degree relatives: 50% 2nd degree relatives: 25% 3rd degree relatives: 12.5%
722
What are the different outcomes that occur following a Schizophrenia diagnosis?
1. Resolves completely, with/without treatment and never returns: 10-20% 2. Recurs repeatedly; full recovery after each episode: 30-35% 3. Recurs repeatedly; incomplete recovery; persistent defective state develops becoming more pronounced each time: 30-35% 4. Persues a downhill course: 10-20%
723
What is the neurochemical involvement in Schizophrenia?
Excessive dopamine transmission in the mesolimbic system and striatal region leading to positive symptoms - mediated through D2 receptors Whilst dopamine deficit in pre-frontal region, mediated by D1 receptors leads to negative symptoms
724
What is the glutamate theory for Schizophrenia?
- NMDA receptor antagonists produce psychotic symptoms - Glutamate and dopamine exert excitatory and inhibitory effects respectively on GABA-ergic striatal neurons, which project to the thalamus and constitute a 'sensory gate'. Too little glutamate or too much dopamine disables the gate, allowing uninhibited sensory input to reach the cortex (causes patient to overanalyse normal situations)
725
What is the aetiology and pathogenesis of Schizophrenia?
- Gene for neuregulin-1-synaptic development and plasticity effects NMDA receptor expression causeing schizophrenia phenotype
726
What is the mechanism of action of anti-psychotics?
- All neuroleptic drugs are antagonistic at dopamine "D2 like" receptors - Most neuroleptics block other receptors (e.g. 5-HT) thus accounting for some of their effects - Drugs treat positive symptoms but not the negative ones - Takes weeks to work, initially neuroleptics induce an increase in DA synthesis and neuronal activity (declines with time)
727
What are the side-effects of neuroleptics?
- Anti-emetic effect - Blocking dopamine receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone. Neuroleptic Phenothiazine, effective at controlling vomiting and nausea induced by drugs (e.g. chemotherapy), renal failure - Many neuroleptics also have blocking action at histamine receptors. Effective at controlling motion sickness
728
What are the side effects of antipsychotics?
Extrapyramidal side effects - blockade of dopamine receptors in the nigrostriatal system can induce "Parkinson" like side effects - Acute dystonia: involuntary movements - muscle spasm, protuding tongue, fixed upward gaze, neck spasms etc often accompanied by Parkinson's features. Occur in the first few weeks, often declining with ongoing therapy. Reversible on drug withdrawal or anti-cholinergic Tardive dyskinesias: Involuntary movements, often involving the face and tongue, but also limb and trunk (20% of patients after several months or years). More associated with typical antipsychotics. Made worse by drug withdrawal or anticholinergics. May be related to proliferation in pre-synaptic DA D2 receptors or glutamate excitotoxic striatal neurodegeneration - Endocrine effects: dopamine is involved in the tuberoinfundibular system and acts to inhibit prolactin secretion via the D2 receptors. Antipsychotics increase serum prolactin concentrations which can lead to breast swelling (men and women) and sometimes lactation in women - Blocking α-adrenoceptors: causes orthostatic hypotension - Blocking 5-HT receptors: weight gain - Blockade of cholinergic muscarinic receptors: typical peripheral anti-muscarinic side effect (e.g. blurring of vision, increased intraocular pressure, dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention)
729
What are the clinically desirable effects of general anaesthetic?
- Loss of consciousness (at low concentration) - Suppression of reflex responses (at high concentration) - Relief of pain (analgesia) - Muscle relaxation - Amnesia
730
What are the different types of general anaesthetics?
Gaseous/Inhalation - Nitrous oxide - Diethyl ether - Halothane - Enflurane Intravenous - Propofol - Etomidate
731
What effect does lipid solubility have on the effect of a general anaesthetic?
Anaesthetic potency increases in direct proportion with oil/water partition coefficient (The more lipid soluble it is the better the anaesthetic)
732
What is the mechanism of action of intravenous general anaesthetics?
Alter synaptic function Enhance GABA (inhibitory) β₃ - suppression of reflex responses α₅ - amnesia
733
What is the mechanism of action of inhalational general anaesthetics?
Alter synaptic function Enhance GABA / compete with glycine, so prevents receptor activation α₁ - suppression of reflex responses Nitrous oxide - blocks NMDA-type glutamate receptors Not as powerful as IV
734
What effect do inhalational agents have on nicotinic ACh receptors?
Increase in administration of inhalational anaesthetic causes a decrease in firing of nACh receptors
735
How do inhalational agents reduce neuronal excitability?
Enhancement of TREK (background leak) K⁺channels | - increases duration of hyperpolarisation so they are more difficult to excite
736
What types of general anaesthetic are more specific?
Intravenous agents are more specific and inhalational agents are active at more sites
737
How do general anaesthetics cause loss of consciousness?
Depress excitability of thalamocortical neurones Influences reticular activating neurones (major consciousness centre in the brain) RAN: sensory signals sent here increases consciousness GABA and background leak K⁺ channels decrease the link between the cortex and the RAN nAChR agents decrease the link between the thalamus and the RAN
738
How do general anaesthetics induce suppression of reflex responses?
Cause depression of reflex pathways in the spinal cord
739
How do general anaesthetics cause amnesia?
Cause decreased synaptic transmission in the hippocampus/amygdala - There are a larger number of GABA with α₅ subunits in the hippocampus Means you lose the ability to form memories
740
How do IV general anaesthetics get into the brain? How are they metabolised?
IV into the blood, they then have free access to the brain | The liver metabolises the agent to return consciousness
741
If an inhalational general anaesthetic has a low blood:gas partition coefficient what effect does this have on it's effect?
Won't dissolve in the blood very well therefore it will be more available to the brain
742
If an inhalational general anaesthetic has a high blood:gas partition coefficient what effect does this have on it's effect?
Less lipid soluble so dissolves in the blood and therefore has slow transfer to the brain
743
How is the administration of inhalational general anaesthetics controlled?
The process is very controllable | Process reverses very quickly if you stop administering the agent
744
What are the main differences between inhalation and intravenous anaesthetics?
``` Inhalation: - Rapidly eliminated - Rapid control of the depth of anaesthesia Intravenous: - Fast induction - Less coughing / excitatory phenomena ```
745
In a clinical setting what general anaesthetics would be used for loss of consciousness and suppression of reflex responses? What would be used for relief of pain, muscle relaxation and amnesia?
``` Induction: Propofol (IV) Maintenance: Enflurane (inhalation) Relief of pain: Opioid Muscle relaxation: Neuromuscular blocking drugs Amnesia: Benzodiazepines ```
746
What is the process of generation of an action potential?
Resting membrane potential -70mV 1. Resting Na⁺ channels open; Na⁺ enters cells 2. Na⁺ channels close (inactivation); K⁺ channels open, K⁺ leaves the cell 3. Na⁺ channels restored to resting state but K⁺ channels still open therefore cell refractory 4. Hyperpolarisation 5. Na⁺ and K⁺ channels restored to resting state therefore cell will respond normally to further depolarising stimulus
747
What is the structure of local anaesthetics?
Aromatic region: important for action and metabolism Basic amine side chain: (tertiary amine) hydrophilic Ester or amide bond: bridges between other two groups Exception- Benzocaine: has alcarve chain not an amino (weak LA)
748
What bridging group does cocaine and lidocaine have?
Cocaine- ester | Lidocaine- amide
749
What is the hydrophilic pathway for the interaction of local anaesthetics with sodium channels?
- LA will be in ionised form - Non-ionised form passes through neurone sheath and into an axon where it is then converted back into ionised (cationic) form - It is the cationic form which acts as a LA - Binds to the inside of voltage-sensitive Na⁺ channels and blocks the channels - This reduces the propagation of an action potential
750
What is use-dependency in the hydrophilic pathway for action of local anaesthetics?
As the nerve is stimulated the channels open, the faster the channels open the more LA can get into the channel to block the firing
751
What is the hydrophobic pathway for local anaesthetic action in an axon?
Non-ionised drug passes into the membrane, and can move into the Na⁺ channel whilst in the membrane
752
What are the effect of local anaesthetics?
They: 1. Prevent generation and conduction of action potentials 2. Do NOT influence resting membrane potential 3. May also influence - Channel gating - Surface tension 4. Selectively block - Small diameter fibres - Non-myelinated fibres LAs are weak bases (pKa 8-9)
753
What are the effects of administering LA into effected tissue?
In infected tissue more of the LA is ionized so it is less effective
754
What are the different routes of administration of local anaesthetics? Describe each.
1. Surface anaesthesia - Mucosal surface (mouth, bronchial tree) - Spray (or powder) - High concentrations → systemic toxicity 2. Infiltration anaesthesia - Directly into tissues → sensory nerve terminals - Minor surgery - Adrenaline co-injection (NOT extremities) 3. Intravenous regional anaesthesia - IV distal to pressure cuff - Limb surgery - Systemic toxicity of premature cuff release 4. Nerve block anaesthesia - Close to nerve trunks e.g. dental nerves - Widely used - low doses - slow onset - Vasoconstrictor co-injection (adrenaline and phalopressin) 5. Spinal anaesthesia (into CSF- intrathecal) - Sub-arachnoid space - spinal roots - Abdominal, pelvic, lower limb surgery - ↓BP; prolonged headache - Glucose (↑ specific gravity) 6. Epidural anaesthesia (outside of dural membrane) - Fatty tissue of epidural space - spinal roots - Uses as for 5 and painless childbirth - Slower onset - higher doses - More restricted action - less effect on BP
755
What are the pharmacokinetic properties of lidocaine (amide)?
Absorption (mucous membranes): Good Plasma protein binding: 70% Metabolism: Hepatic N-dealkylation Plasma half-life: 2 hours
756
What are the pharmacokinetic properties of cocaine (ester)?
Absorption (mucous membranes): Good Plasma protein binding: 90% Metabolism: Liver and plasma, non-specific esterases Plasma half-life: 1 hour
757
What are the unwanted effects of lidocaine?
``` CNS (paradoxical) - stimulation - restlessness, confusion - tremor CVS (Na⁺ channel blockade) - myocardial depression - vasodilation - ↓ BP ```
758
What are the unwanted effects of cocaine?
``` CNS - euphoria, excitation CVS - ↑CO - vasoconstriction - ↑BP (all sympathetic actions) ```
759
What are the symptoms of depression?
``` Emotional (psychological) - Misery, apathy, pessimism - Low self-esteem - Loss of motivation - Anhedonia Biological (Somatic) - Slowing of thought and action - Loss of libido - Loss of appetite, sleep disturbance ```
760
What is unipolar depression/depressive disorder?
- Mood swings in same direction - Relatively late onset Reactive depression - stressful life events - non-familial Endogenous depression - unrelated to external stressors - familial pattern - Drug treatment
761
What is bipolar depression? (manic depression)
- Oscillating depression/mania - Less common : early adult onset - Strong hereditary tendency - Drug treatment (Lithium carbonate)
762
What is the monoamine theory of depression?
Depression = functional deficit of central MA transmission : mania = functional excess Monoamines = NA and 5-HT (serotonin) - Delayed onset of clinical effect of drugs - Down regulation: α2, β, 5-HT receptors - HPA axis (↑CRH level) - Hippocampal neurodegeneration
763
What is the mechanism of action of Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)?
``` - Neuronal monoamine re-uptake inhibitors NA = 5-HT >> DA Other receptor actions - α₂ - mAChRs - Histamine - 5-HT Delayed down-regulation of β-adrenoceptors and 5-HT₂ receptors ```
764
What are the pharmacokinetics of TCAs?
- Rapid oral absorption - Highly PPB (90-95%) - Hepatic metabolism - active metabolites - renal excretion (glucuronide conjugates) - Plasma half-life: 10-20 hours
765
What are the unwanted effects of TCAs?
At therapeutic dosage: - Atropine-like effects (amitriptyline) - Postural hypotension (vasomotor centre) - Sedation (H1 antagonism) Acute toxicity (overdose) - CNS: excitement, delirium, seizures → coma, respiratory depression - CVS: cardiac dysrhythmias → ventricular fibrillation/sudden death - Care- attempted suicide
766
What are the effects of drug interactions on TCAs?
- Plasma protein binding: ↑ TCA effects (aspirin phenytoin) - Hepatic microsomal enzymes: ↑ TCA effects as they compete with TCAs (neuroleptics : oral contraceptives) - Potentiation of CNS depressants (alcohol) - Antihypertensive drugs (monitor closely): can sometimes increase and sometimes decrease
767
What is the mechanism of action of monoamine oxidase inhibitors?
MAO-A : NA and 5-HT MAO-B : DA - Most are non-selective MAOIs - Irreversible inhibition → long duration of action - Rapid effects : ↑ cytoplasmic NA and 5-HT - Delayed effects: clinical response - down-regulation of β-adrenoceptors and 5-HT*2 receptors - Inhibition of other enzymes
768
What are the pharmacokinetics of MAOIs?
- Rapid oral absorption - Short plasma half-life (few hours) but longer duration of action - Metabolised in the liver: excreted in urine
769
What are the unwanted effects of MAOIs?
- Atropine-like effects (
770
What drug interactions occur with the use of MAOIs? Which type of MAOI has decreased drug interactions?
Serious problem - 'Cheese reaction' : Tyramine-containing foods + MAOI → hypertensive crisis (throbbing headache, ↑BP, intracranial haemorrhage) - MAOIs + TCAs → hypertensive episodes (avoid) - MAOIs + pethidine → hyperpyrexia, restlessness, come and hypotension Moclobemide: reversible MAO-A inhibitor (RIMA), ↓ drug interactions, ↓ duration of action
771
What is the mechanism of action of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors?
- Selective 5-HT re-uptake inhibition - Less troublesome side-effects: safer in overdose - But less effective in severe depression
772
What are the pharmacokinetics of SSRIs?
- Oral administration - Half life: 18-24 hours - Delayed onset of action (2-4 weeks) - Fluoxetine competes with TCAs for hepatic enzymes (avoid coadministration)
773
What are the unwanted effects of SSRIs?
- Nausea, diarrhoea, insomnia and loss of libido - Interact with MAOIs (avoid coadministration) - ↑ suicidality (<18 years old) - Fewer than TCA/MAOIs
774
What is Venlafaxine?
Dose-dependent reuptake inhibitor 5-HT > NA > DA 2nd line treatment for severe depression
775
What is Mertazapine?
α2 receptor antagonist ↑ NA and 5-HT release Other receptor interactions (sedative) Useful in SSRI-intolerant patients
776
Why does Parkinson's disease occur in younger people? What is Parkinson's?
Early onset = <55 years old - Genetically linked - Less that 10% of people with Parkinson's disease are <55 years - Loss of dopaminergic neurons which originate in the substantial nigra and project to the striatum (caudate putamen) causing loss of fine motor skills - D2 receptors are found in the brain - Must lose 80% of neutrons before you see effects
777
What are the symptoms of Parkinson's disease?
- Postural abnormalities - Tremor - Bradykinesia - Rigidity, muscle stiffness
778
How is dopamine produced in the brian?
- Tyrosine from the diet enters the brain through amino acid transporters - Tyrosine is converted to L-DOPA (Tyrosine hydroxylase) - DOPA is converted to dopamine (DOPA decarboxylase)
779
Why is L-DOPA used to treat Parkinson's rather than dopamine or tyrosi
Dopamine is hydrophilic so it can't cross the the BBB, also there are very low levels of dopamine transporter in BBB so it cannot penetrate the brain L-DOPA uses the same transporter as tyrosine so it can get into the brain Tyrosine hydroxylase is the rate limiting step so it is better to use L-DOPA instead of tyrosine
780
What is Carbidopa?
A DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor - It cannot cross the BBB - It prevents the conversion of L-DOPA to dopamine peripherally so when used with L-DOPA more is converted in the brain and it also prevents the nausea and vomiting associated with dopamine stimulating the chemotactic trigger zone where there are fewer tight junctions than in the brain
781
What are on-off fluctuations in Parkinson's disease? How is it treated?
They occur as Parkinson's progresses when pulses of dopamine are released and so the stores are depleted. This can be prevented by splitting the dose across more administration or increasing the initial dose. MAO and COMT break down dopamine so if you inhibit these then the life of dopamine in the synapse can be prolonged. The most commonly used is a COMT inhibitor (Entacapone)
782
What is Pergolide? What are the side effects and how can they be treated?
A dopamine receptor agonist It causes nausea by binding to dopamine receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone Treated using domperidone (peripherally acting D2 receptor antagonist)
783
What side effect is caused by high levels of L-DOPA? How can this be avoided?
Dyskinesia. D2 agonists don't cause dyskinesia to the same extent
784
What drugs that act on the brain can precipitate Parkinson like symptoms?
D2 antagonist (anti-psychotics/neuroleptics
785
Anti-psychotics can induce strange movements in the arms and face (sticking out the tongue etc). What is this? What other side effects do these drugs induce?
Tardive dyskinesias (brain over-sensitised to dopamine) The brain is trying to compensate by upregulating dopamine receptors in that part of the brain (it is reversible) Other uses: - Anti-emetics - Increases prolactin secretion = galactorrhoea, lactation, inhibits fertility, amenorrhoea
786
What is the main risk factor for Alzheimer's disease?
``` Age Mostly sporadic (92%) remaining is genetic ```
787
What are the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease?
1. Memory loss- especially recently acquired information 2. Disorientation/confusion- forgetting where they are 3. Language problems- stopping in the middle of a conversation 4. Personality changes- becoming confused, fearful, anxious 5. Poor judgement- such as when dealing with money
788
What is the Amyloid hypothesis for physiological and pathophysiological process of Alzheimer's disease?
In a healthy individual γ-secretase, α-secretase and amyloid precursor protein (APP) are present in the membrane of neuronal cells. APP is cleaved by α-secretase and then cleaved by γ-secretase 1. APP is cleaved by α-secretase 2. sAPPα is released - C83 fragment remains 3. C83 → digested by γ-secretase 4. Products removed Pathological process APP is instead cleaved by β-secretase and then by γ-secretase 1. APP cleaved by β-secretase 2. sAPPβ released - C99 fragment remains 3. C99 → digested by γ-secretase releasing β-amyloid (Aβ) protein These β-amyloid (Aβ) proteins activate together and forms plaques which are deposited on the surface of neuronal cells
789
What is the Tau hypothesis for physiological and pathophysiological process of Alzheimer's disease?
- Soluble protein present in axons - Important for assembly and stability of microtubule In Alzheimer's disease hyperphosphorylated tau is insoluble → self-aggregates to form neurofibrillary tangles Tau are neurotoxin This also results in microtuule instability
790
What is the inflammation hypothesis for physiological and pathophysiological process of Alzheimer's disease?
Microglia are specialised CNS immune cells - similar to macrophages - ↑ release of inflammatory mediators and cytotoxic proteins - ↑ phagocytosis - ↓ levels of neuroprotective proteins
791
What anticholinesterases are used in the treatment of Alzheimers disease?
All drugs treat the symptoms. None treat the underlying pathology. Only last for 2-3 years and then the drugs are not that effective. Only prescribed for mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease 1. Donepezil 2. Rivastigmine 3. Galantamine
792
What is the mechanism of action of Donepezil?
Gold-standard. First line treatment Anticholinesterase - Reversible cholinesterase inhibitor - Long plasma half life (can be given once a day)
793
What is the mechanism of action of Rivastigmine?
- Pseudo-reversible AChE and BChE (buteryl cholinesterase enzyme) inhibitor - 8 hour half-life - Reformulated as a transdermal patch - Causes liver problems as it inhibits BChE
794
What is the mechanism of action of Galantamine?
- Reversible cholinesterase inhibitor - 7-8 hour half-life - α7 nAChR agonist
795
Other than anticholinesterases what other drugs are prescribed for Alzheimer's disease? What is it's mechanism of action?
NMDA receptor blocker. Only licensed for moderate to severe Alzheimer's Memantine - Use-dependent non-competitive NMDA receptor blocker with low channel affinity - Long plasma half-life (administered once a day)
796
Give an example of a mycolic bacteria. What does this mean?
M. tuberculosis | The call wall of the bacteria has a layer of peptidoglycan surrounded by mycolic acid
797
What is the different between Gram +ve and Gram -ve bacteria?
Gram +ve have a prominent, thick peptidoglycan cell wall Gram -ve have a thin pedptidoglycan layer surrounded by an outer membrane with lipopolysaccharides making up the cell wall
798
What is the process of prokaryotic protein synthesis?
1. Nucleic acid synthesis - Dihydropterate (DHOp) is produced from paraaminobenzoate (PABA) and then converted into dihydrofolate (DHF). - DHF is converted to tetrahydrofolate (THF) by DHF reductase. THF is important in DNA synthesis 2. DNA replication DNA gyrase (topoisomerase) releases tension in the DNA strand 3. RNA synthesis RNA polymerase produces RNA from DNA template 4. Protein synthesis Ribosomes (30s and 60s) produce protein from RNA templates
799
What antibiotic target nucleic acid synthesis?
Sulphonamides Inhibit dihydropterate synthase Trimethoprim Inhibits dihydrofolate reductase
800
What antibiotic targets bacterial DNA replication?
Fluroquinolones (e.g. Ciprofloxacin) | Inhibits DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV
801
What antibiotic targets bacterial RNA synthesis?
Rifamycons (e.g. Rifampicin) | Inhibits bacterial RNA polymerase
802
What antibiotics target bacterial protein synthesis?
Inhibits ribosomes: - Aminoglycosides (e.g. Gentamycin) - Chloramphenicol - Macrolides (e.g. Erythromycin) - Tetracyclines
803
What is the process of bacterial wall synthesis?
1. Peptidoglycan (PtG) synthesis - A pentapeptide is created on N-acetyl muramic acid (NAM). - N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG) associates with NAM forming PtG 2. PtG transportation PtG is transported across the membrane by bactoprenol 3. PtG incorporation PtG is incorporated into the cell wall when transpeptidase enzyme cross-links PtG pentapeptides
804
What antibiotic targets peptidoglycan synthesis? How?
Glycopeptides (e.g. Vancomycin) | Binds to the pentapeptide preventing PtG synthesis
805
What antibiotic targets peptidoglycan transportation? How?
Bacitracin | Inhibits bactoprenol regeneration preventing PtG transportation
806
What antibiotic targets peptidoglycan incorporation? How?
``` β-lactams Bind covalently to transpeptidase inhibiting PtG incorporation into cell wall Includes: - Carbapenems - Cephalosporins - Penicillins ```
807
What antibiotic targets cell wall stability? How?
Lipopeptide (e.g. Daptomycin) Disrups Gram +ve cell walls Polymyxins Binds to LPS and disrupts Gram -ve cell membranes
808
What are the causes of antibiotic resistance?
- Unnecessary prescription - Livestock farming - Lack of regulation - Lack of development
809
What are the different mechanisms of antibiotic resistance?
1. Additional target production Bacteria produce another target that is unaffected by the drug (e.g. E. coli produce another DHF reductase enzyme making them resistant to trimethoprim) 2. Hyperproduction of enzyme Bacteria significantly increase levels of DHF reductase (e.g. E.coli produce additional DHF reductase enzymes making trimethoprim less effective) 3. Alterations in target enzymes Alteration to the enzyme targeted by the drug. Enzyme still effective but drug now ineffective (e.g. S. aureus mutation in the ParC region of topoisomerase IV confers resistance to quinolones) 4. Alterations in drug permeation Reductions in aquaporins and increased efflux systems (e.g. Primarily of importance in Gram -ve bacteria) 5. Production of destruction enzymes β-lactamases hydrolyse C-N bond of the β-lactam ring (e.g. Flucloxacillin is β-lactamase resistant; Amoxicillin is broad spectrum)
810
What are the different classification of fungal infection?
1. Superficial - Outermost layers of skin 2. Dermatophyte - skin, hair or nails 3. Subcutaneous - innermost skin layers 4. Systemic - primarily respiratory tract
811
What are the two most common categories of anti-fungal drug?
1. Azoles: Fluconazole | 2. Polyenes: Amphotericin
812
What is the mechanism of azoles in anti-fungal treatment? Give an example and it's uses.
- Inhibits cytochrome P450-dependent enzymes involved in membrane sterol synthesis - Fluconazole (oral) used for candidiasis and systemic infections
813
What is the mechanism of polyenes in anti-fungal treatment? Give an example and it's uses.
- Interact with cell membrane sterols forming membrane channels - Amphotericin (IV) for systemic infections
814
What types of hepatitis require treatment?
Hepatitis B and C
815
What drug is used to treat hepatitis B? What is the mechanism of this drug?
Tenofovir | Nucleotide analogue, givent sometimes with Peginterferon α
816
What drug is used to treat hepatitis C? What is the mechanism of this drug?
Ribavirin and Peginterferon α Ribavirin: nucleoside analogue prevents viral RNA synthesis Boceprevir: protease inhibitor most effective against Hep C genotype 1
817
What is the life cycle of HIV?
1. Attachment and entry - HIV GP120 attaches to CD$ receptor - GP120 also binds to either CCr5 or CXCR4 - GP41 penetrates host cell membrane and viral capsid is endocytosed 2. Replication and integration - Within cytoplasm - reverse transcriptase enzyme converts viral RNA → DNA - DNA transported into nucleus and integrated into host DNA 3. Assembly and release - Host cell's 'machinery' utilised to produce viral RNA and essential proteins - - Gag precursor encodes all viral structural proteins - HIV protease cleaves Gag precursor protein - Virus is assembles within cells → mature virion is released
818
What do the specific drugs used to treat Hepatitis C and the duration of treatment depend on?
- HCV genotype - Viral load - Past treatment experience - Degree of liver damage - Ability to tolerate the prescribed treatment - Need for liver transplant
819
What drugs target the attachment and entry of HIV? How?
Enfuvirtide - Binds to HIV GP41 transmembrane glycoprotein Maraviroc - Block CCR5 chemokine receptor
820
What are the different drugs that inhibit HIV replication? Give examples
1. Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors - Activated by 3-step phosphorylation process e. g. Zidovudine 2. Nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors - Fewer phosphorylation steps required e. g. Tenofovir 3. Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors - No phosphorylation required - Not incorporated into viral DNA e. g. Efavirenz
821
What drug inhibits HIV integrase?
Raltegravir
822
What drug inhibits HIV protease? What is this typically co-administered with? Why?
Saquinavir (1st generation PI) Co-administered with Ritonavir which reduced PI metabolism (by inhibiting cytochrome P450) - co-administered to boost Squinavir concentrations in the body
823
What is hepres simplex virus? How is it treated?
Double stranded DNA virus, surrounded by tegument and enclosed in a lipid bilayer Treatment: Acyclovir (nucleoside analogue)
824
What is influenza virus? How is it treated?
Multipartite single stranded RNA virus. Envelope protein neuraminidase → release Tropism: nose, throat, bronchi Treatment: Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) a neuraminidase inhibitor
825
What are the different types of general seizures?
Begins simultaneously in both hemispheres of the brain - Tonic-clonic seizures - Absence seizures - Myoclonic seizures
826
What are the different types of partial/focal seizures?
Begins within a particular area of the brain and may spread out (may be the result of injury of insult to the brain) - Simple/complex partial - Temporal lobe epilepsy
827
What techniques can be used to measure brain activity?
- Electroencephalography - Magnetoencephalography (MEG) - Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)
828
What are the different waves of brain activity? How does this differ to brain activity during a seizure?
Regular activity: Distinctive firing patterns associated with certain activities (high to low Hz) - Gamma: awareness - hyperactive - Beta: awareness - thinking - Alpha: awareness - relaxed - Theta: drowsiness, meditation - Delta: deep sleep During a seizure there is irregular/asynchronous firing patterns due to neuronal over-activity
829
What receptors are activated at a glutaminergic synpase?
Excitatory post-synaptic receptors: - NMDA - AMPA - Kainate
830
What is Carbamazepine used for? How does it work?
Voltage-gated Na channel blocker - Drug of choice for partial seizures and tonic-clonic seizures - Stabilises inactive state of channel - Induces expression of hepatic enzymes - 16-30 hour half-life - Dangerous in individuals with HLA-B*1502 allele
831
What is Phenytoin used for? How does it work?
Voltage-gated Na channel blocker - Indicated for most forms of epilepsy (not absence) - Class 1b channel blocker - Fast onset (10 mins) and long half-life (10-20 hours)
832
What is Retigabine used for? How does it work?
Voltage-gated K channel enhancer - Potassium channel opener specific for Kᵥ7 α-subunit - Only licensed for adjunctive treatment - Fast onset (30mins); ∼10 hour half-life
833
What is Ethosuximide used for? How does it work?
Voltage-gated calcium channel blocker - T-type Ca²⁺ channel antagonist - Mainly used for absence seizures - Long half-life (50 hours)
834
What is Gabapentin used for? How does it work?
Voltage-gated calcium channel blocker - Thought to inhibit α2δ subunit - Indicated for partial seizures
835
What is Levetiracetam used for? How does it work?
- Binds to synaptic vesicle associated protein (SV2A) preventing glutamte release - Monotherapy for focal seizures - Fast onset (1 hour); half-life (10 hours)
836
What is Topiramate used for? How does it work?
- Inhibits GluK5 subunit of kainate receptor - Also affects VGSCs and GABA receptors - Indicated for most types of epilepsy - Fast onset (1 hour); long half-life (20 hours)
837
What is Perampanel used for? How does it work?
- Selective inhibitor of AMPA receptor - Only licensed in 2013 as an adjunct for partial seizures - Fast onset (1 hour); long half-life (24 hours)
838
What is the process of neurotransmission at a GABAergic synapse?
1. GABA can be released tonically and also following neuronal stimulation 2. GABA activates inhibitory post-synaptic GABAᴬ receptors 3. GABAᴬ receptors are chloride (Cl⁻) channels → membrane hyperpolarisation 4. GABA is taken up by GAT 5. GABA is metabolised by GABA transaminate (GABA-T)
839
What is Clonazepam used for? How does it work?
- Benzodiazepine (BZD) indicated for all forms of epilepsy | - Fast onset (2 hours); long half-life (30 hours)
840
What is Phenoparbital used for? How does it work?
- Indicated for most forms of epilepsy except absence seizures - Acts as a sedative in adults and may cause behavioural disturbances in children - Interacts with numerous drugs - Very fast-onset (20 mins); long half-life (60 hours)
841
What is Tiagabine used for? How does it work?
- Selective inhibitor of GAT-1 (GABA transporter) - Adjunctive treatment for partial seizures - Fast onset (45 mins); short half-life (6 hours)
842
What is Sodium Valproate used for? How does it work?
- Indicated for all forms of epilepsy - Inhibits GABA transaminase - Fast onset (1 hour); half-life (12 hours)
843
What is Vigabatrin used for? How does it work?
- Irreversible inhibits GABA transaminase enzyme | - Monotherapy for infantile spasms or as an adjunct for partial seizures
844
What drug would be used for a tonic-clonic seizure?
Valproate
845
What drugs would be used for an absence seizure?
Valproate | Ethosuximide
846
What drug would be used for a myoclonic seizure?
Topiramate | Valproate
847
What drug would be used for a partial/focal seizure?
Carbamazepine