Intro to Pharmacology Flashcards
What is a drug?
A chemical substance of known structure, which when administered to a living organism; produces a biological effect.
Characteristics of a drug;
Often low MW (<500)
Synthetic organic compouds
How do drugs work?
By altering the activity of an existing biological process in a patient
Uses of drugs;
- To prevent occurrence of disease (Prophylaxis)
- To restore normal function of the biological process
- To alter the activity of a compensatory pathway
- Interferes with biological process of a foreign organism (in the case of an infection)
What are the 3 main sites that Drugs act on?
1) Anatomical site
2) Physiological
3) Pharmacological aka Drug targets
What is a drug target?
The molecule through which a drug exerts its effect
What is the function of Tricyclic antidepressants?
They inhibit nor-ad and serotonin transporters
What does the term ‘off-target’ effect mean?
Interaction of a drug with an unintended biological molecule
Function of Chlorphenamine ?
Inhibits histamine receptors (intended on-target) and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (unintended off-target)
What are the 4 classes of receptors?
1) Nuclear receptors
2) Kinase-linked receptors
3) Ligand-gated Ion channel
4) GPCR (G-protein couple receptor)
What is the role of an Agonist ?
Binds to the receptor and activates it
What is the role of an Antagonist ?
Binds to the receptor and prevents agonist from binding
What drug target does Salbutamol bind to and what is it used to treat ?
- Binds to Beta-2 adrenoceptor
- Acts as an agonist and is used to treat Asthma
What drug target does Lidocaine bind to and what is it used to treat ?
- Binds to an Ion channel
- Used in minor procedures as an Anaesthetic
What drug target does Enalipril bind to and what is it used to treat ?
- Binds to an enzyme
- Acts as an ACE inhibitor; used to treat Hypertension
