Intro to Pharmacology Flashcards
Exam 1
What is the definition for pharmacology?
The study of biological effect of DRUGS (chemicals) that are introduced into the body to cause some sort of change.
What is the definition of pharmacokinetics?
What happens to drugs in the body
What is the definition of pharmacodynamics?
The mechanism of action. The effects on the body.
What is a chemical name?
Long and complex.
Used in research.
Ex: N-acety-para-aminophenol
What is a generic name?
Official name of drug
Only has 1 generic name
Usually more complicated than trade name
Lower case
Ex: acetaminophen
What is a trade name?
Brand name, given by pharmaceutical company
Easier to remember and pronounce
Upper case
Ex: Tylenol
Describe a prototype.
One drug- typically the first- that represents a group or class of medication
New drugs in the class are compared to the prototype
What is an example of a prototype?
Ibuprofen/Advil- represents the class NSAID
Other manufacturers of Ibuprofen (Kroger, Walgreens, etc) get compared to the prototype
What is a therapeutic effect?
Intended effect of the the drug
What we want to happen
What is a side effect?
Unintended effects
Unavoidable
What is a toxicity?
Harmful effects
What is an adverse effect?
Unexpected reaction
Dangerous reaction
What is an allergic reaction?
Unexpected
May be dangerous
Involves immune system response
How are new drugs approved?
Approved by the FDA. Chemical identified, undergoes strict scientific tests.
Preclinical trials -> phase 1 studies -> phase 2 studies -> phase 3 studies -> phase 4 studies
Describe preclinical trials.
Test on lab ANIMALS for therapeutic and adverse effects
Describe phase 1 studies.
HUMAN VOLUNTEERS are used to test the drug
Describe phase 2 studies.
Drug is tried on patients who have the DISEASE that the drug is designed to treat
Describe phase 3 studies.
The drug is used in a VAST CLINICAL MARKET. Prescribers informed of adverse effects and monitor their patients closely. Unexpected responses may occur and the drug may be withdrawn from the market.
Describe phase 4 studies.
CONTINUED EVALUATION by the FDA
How many schedule drugs are there?
5
Describe a schedule 1 controlled substance.
Not approved for medical use, no reason to prescribe (heroin, LSD)
Describe a schedule 2 controlled substance.
Used medically, but HIGH potential for abuse (narcotics, amphetamines). No automatic refills allowed.
Describe a schedule 3 controlled substance.
Less potential for abuse (non-barbiturate sedatives, non-amphetamines, stimulants)
Describe a schedule 4 controlled substance.
Some potential for abuse. Primarily sedatives, anti-anxiety medications.
Describe a schedule 5 controlled substance.
Low potential for abuse. Medications containing small amounts of certain narcotics or stimulants, usually antitussives.
What is prescription strength over the counter medications?
Same drug available as OTC but with a higher dose (800 mg)
Describe over the counter medications
Over 80 classes of OTC medications
Consumers must be able to diagnose own condition and monitor effectiveness EASILY
Low risk of side effects and low abuse potential
Describe dietary and herbal supplements.
Can only claim affect on BODY STRUCTURE or FUNCTION (not medical condition)
FDA only monitors POST-MARKET
Label restrictions on dietary and herbals
Describe adverse interactions between drugs and herbals
-Some herbals can increase the toxicity of prescription medication or cause decreased therapeutic effects
What is a teratogen?
Substances that can cause congenital malformations in developing fetus
(alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine all known teratogens)
What are the categories of teratogens?
Categories A, B, C, D and X
Describe category A teratogens.
Safe for the fetus
Describe category B teratogens.
Lack of studies to show benefit/risk
Describe category C teratogens.
No studies, animal studies possible risk, talk to OB
Describe category D teratogens.
Drugs that have possible risk to fetus.
Discussion with OB/GYN about risks and benefits
Describe category X teratogens.
Drugs that have KNOWN RISK, that CANNOT BE outweighed by possible benefit
What is the definition of pharmacogenomics?
The study of how genes affect a person’s response to drugs.
