Pharmacology basic definitions Flashcards
Define a ‘ligand’.
A molecule that binds to a receptor.
Define a ‘receptor’.
The molecular target for a drug.
Define an ‘agonist’.
A molecule that activates a receptor.
Define an ‘antagonist’.
Blocks or reduces agonist mediated responses.
What can drug binding be described as?
Lock and key.
Define the term ‘drug’.
A chemical substance of known structure, which when administered to a living organism produces a biological effect.
Define the term ‘medicine’.
Usually, but not necessarily, contains one or more drugs which is administered with the intention of producing a therapeutic effect.
Define the term ‘therapeutics’.
Use of drugs to diagnose, prevent and treat illness (and/or pregnancy) i.e., the medical use of drugs.
Define the term ‘formulations’.
How the drug is ‘packaged’ e.g., different chemical substances, including the active drug, are combined to produce a medicine.
Define the term ‘excipients’.
Agents to help formulate the active drug e.g., calcium carbonate (chalk-like) to bulk out a drug to be able to make it sizeable enough for human consumption
Outline the 3 different names that drugs have.
Chemical name - describes chemical structure.
Generic name - class of drug to which molecule belongs
Proprietary name - manufacturer/trade name
Define the term ‘analgesic’.
A drug that relieves or reduces pain.
