Key Concepts / Exam Questions Flashcards
Define “pharmacology”
The study of the medicinal use and actions of drugs, or medications (75).
What is the difference between brand name and generic medications?
“While brand name drug refers to the name giving by the producing company, generic drug refers to a drug produced after the active ingredient of the brand name drug. Generic drugs will, however, be sold under different brand names, but will contain the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug.”
What are the three main methods of receiving ophthalmic drugs?
(1) topical systems, by which drugs are applied directly to the surface of the eye or the surrounding skin, (2) injections with hypodermic needles into or around the eye, and (3) oral systems whereby drugs are taken by mouth (76).
____(1)____ release is achieved through the use of _____(2)_____ and allows drug delivery without the need for multiple injections.
(1) sustained
(2) implantable intraocular drug delivery devices
(76)
Define transscleral technology with regards to drug administration.
This system of drug delivery diffuses medication through the sclera and into the eye (76).
What are some of the types of liquid drops?
solutions, suspensions, and ointments which are used either on the surface of the eye or eyelids.
How long should a patient hold their eye shut after an eye drop is administered?
2 minutes.
Why are some patients instructed to press their finger over the puncta of the eyelids after liquid drops are administered?
To block the drainage of the medication and encourage absorption into the ocular tissues (76)
Define solution drugs and the purpose of vehicles.
A drug that is completely dissolved in an inert liquid called a vehicle. The normal eye is hydrophobic (resists water) so a topical solution may contain a chemical to overcome this resistance.
Can preservative agents irritate the eye?
Yes and cause redness, tearing, or pain.
If an adverse reaction occurs when using a solution, what should you do?
Artificial tears or irrigation solution should be used to wash out the eye.
Drawbacks of solutions?
They drain out of the eye, so frequent application may be necessary, and they may cause effects in other parts of the body.
Define a suspension.
A liquid vehicle in which particles of the drug are “suspended” (77).
Disadvantages of suspensions?
They do not remain in contact with the eye for very long (like solutions).
What are ointments or gels?
Drugs dissolved or suspended in an oily or greasy vehicle.
