Introduction to Pharmacology Flashcards
Define a drug?
a chemical substance of known structure, other than a nutrient or and essential dietary ingredient, which when administered to a living organism produces a biological effect
Define Biologicals
genetically engineered proteins of monoclonal antibodies
what is Biotechnology ?
use of recombinant DNA technology for e.g. manufacturing therapeutic proteins, diagnostics, genotyping and production of transgenic animals
Pharmacogenetics ?
study of genetic influences on responses to drugs
Pharmacogenomics?
use of genetic information as a guide to choice of drug therapy on an individual. linking specific gene variations to unwanted effects of an unwanted drug
define Receptors
macromolecular protein complexes that serve as recognition site for neurotransmitters and hormones. Also refers to any component of a cell that can bind to a drug, which then modulates some activity of the cell
What is pilocarpine?
a poison, slowed heart rate but if pre exposed to atropine, nothing happens as effect negated as its an antagonist. Pilocarpine increases saliva production
What is curare?
antagonist of nicotinic AChRs and competes with acetylcholine for the binding site, which is effective as a neuromuscular blocking agent (nondepolarizing blocker) for general anesthesia.
Opiates? how morphine etc work
Morphine is used for the management of chronic moderate-to-severe pain. Opioids, including morphine, can manage pain effectively when used for a short amount of time. The use of opioids for longer periods needs to be monitored as they can develop a physical dependence, addiction disorder and drug abuse.
binding of morphine in the opioid receptors blocks the transmission of nociceptive signals, it activates the signaling of pain-modulating neurons in the spinal cord and inhibits the transmission from primary afferent nociceptors to the dorsal horn sensory projection cells.
