Drug Formulation Flashcards
What is a drug, and what are its intended purposes?
A drug is a substance intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of a disease.
Define a Drug Delivery System (DDS).
A Drug Delivery System (DDS) is a formulation or device that enables the introduction of medicine into the body to achieve its therapeutic effect.
What distinguishes a non-proprietary name from a proprietary name?
A non-proprietary name (generic name) is not subject to proprietary rights and is assigned by official bodies, while a proprietary name (trade name) is given by the pharmaceutical company manufacturing the drug.
What is the purpose of excipients in drug formulation?
Excipients are inactive substances used in drug formulation that can affect the drug’s efficacy and release from the dosage form.
Describe the function of enteric-coated tablets.
Enteric-coated tablets are designed to resist breakdown in the stomach, dissolving only in the intestines to avoid damaging the stomach lining and targeting local effects in the intestine.
What is an elixir in pharmacology?
An elixir is a liquid formulation containing a medicinal drug combined with syrup, glycerine, or alcohol to mask its unpleasant taste, making it more palatable for oral administration.
How does lipophilicity affect a drug’s distribution in the body?
Lipophilicity refers to a compound’s ability to partition into a nonpolar lipid solvent versus an aqueous solvent, influencing its absorption and distribution in biological membranes.
What is ionization, and why is it important in pharmacology?
Ionization is the process by which a molecule acquires a charge by gaining or losing electrons. It is important in pharmacology because it affects a drug’s solubility, absorption, and overall pharmacokinetics.
What is the significance of a drug’s chemical name?
The chemical name is based on the IUPAC nomenclature rules and provides a systematic description of the drug’s chemical structure, which is essential for scientific communication and research.
How long do pharmaceutical companies typically hold a patent on a drug’s proprietary name?
Pharmaceutical companies usually hold a patent on a drug’s proprietary name for 20 years.
What is a controlled release tablet, and how does it benefit patients?
A controlled release tablet is designed to release the drug slowly over an extended period, providing a longer therapeutic effect, which is particularly beneficial for managing chronic diseases.
What role does benzoic acid play in pharmaceuticals?
Benzoic acid acts as a preservative to prevent microbial growth in pharmaceutical formulations, thereby extending their shelf life.
What does solubility refer to in the context of drugs?
Solubility refers to the ability of a drug to dissolve in a solvent, typically water or biological fluids, which is crucial for its absorption and therapeutic effectiveness.
Explain the concept of the partition coefficient (P).
The partition coefficient (P) measures the ratio of solubility of an un-ionized compound in two immiscible solvents, indicating how a drug will distribute between hydrophilic and lipophilic environments in the body.
What is the purpose of using sugar-coated tablets?
Sugar-coated tablets are designed to mask the taste of the medication, making it more palatable for patients and potentially reducing the risk of addiction and diabetes.
