Analgesic and Antipyretics

Question 1

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 1

Movement of drugs into, through and out of the body
Absorption - mainly in the small intestine
Distribution – carried around on other molecules
Metabolism – mainly via the liver
Excretion – mainly via the kidneys

Question 2

Pharmacodynamics

Answer 2

Way in which drugs affect the body 
Chemical action – e.g. antacids
Block enzymes – e.g. ibuprofen
Physical action – e.g. lactulose
Act on receptors – e.g. beta blockers

Question 3

Paracetamol

Answer 3

Antipyretic & analgesic.

blocks PG synthesis in CNS or other effects
Considered safe & effective for mild-moderate pain
Dose varies depending on age & liver function of patient

Use
mild to moderate pain
↓ elevated body temperature

Question 4

NSAIDs: Adverse Reactions

Answer 4

E.G. Ibuprofen, Celecoxib, Aspirin

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or constipation
Dyspepsia, gastric ulcers (due to being acid +  prostaglandin action on stomach. PG inhibits acids release)
Bronchospasm & bronchoconstriction
Tinnitus (sign of overdose)
Cardiovascular complications with some COX 2 inhibitors

Question 5

Aspirin (Salicylate)

Answer 5

Analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory & anti-platelet effects
Can be used in conjunction with opioids
Some absorption through the stomach
Contraindicated in children up to 16yrs → Reye’s Syndrome

Question 6

Opioid Receptors

Answer 6

mu – analgesia + main side effects e.g. respiratory depression, euphoria, sedation, pupil constriction, constipation, dependence
 delta – analgesia + respiratory depression, constipation, seizures
kappa – analgesia + sedation, pupil constriction, constipation, dysphoria, hallucinations

Question 7

Morphine ADR

Answer 7

Respiratory depression, hypotension, bradycardia
Euphoria
Sedation
Depressed cough reflex
Pupil constriction
Nausea & vomiting & constipation
Itching,  blood pressure & bronchoconstriction due to histamine release
Tolerance
Dependence (not common when used for pain relief)