NSAIDs Flashcards
What are the three major uses of NSAIDs?
Anti-pyretic
Anti-inflammatory
Analgesic
What are most deaths due to NSAIDs caused by?
GI ulceration
Broadly speaking, how do NSAIDs act?
They inhibit the production of prostanoids by COX enzymes
What are the main prostanoids?
Prostaglandins (D2, E2 and F2) Prostacyclin (PGI2) Thromboxane A2
What does COX convert arachidonic acid to?
Prostaglandin H2 Which is then converted by specific synthases to: Thromboxane A2 Prostacyclin (PGI2) Prostaglandin D2, E2, F2
How are prostanoid receptors named?
Prostanoid receptors aren’t very specific - they are named based on which prostanoid they have the highest affinity for
What type of receptor are all the prostanoid receptors?
G protein coupled receptors (though not all their actions are G protein mediated)
State some unwanted actions of PGE2.
Increased pain perception Thermoregulation Acute inflammatory response Tumorigenesis Inhibition of apoptosis
How does PGE2 affect body temperature?
PGE2 stimulates hypothalamic neurones initiating a rise in body temperature
Which prostanoid receptor is responsible for signalling in acuteinflammation?
EP3 (on mast cells)
Which prostanoid receptor is responsible for the effects of PGE2 on the immune system?
EP4
Which diseases are treated with NSAIDs due to its effects on the immune system?
Multiple Sclerosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis (Th17 involvement) Contact Dermatitis (Th1 cells involved)
What is the problem with PGE2 inhibiting apoptosis?
Inhibition of apoptosis increases the likelihood of necrosis
State some desirable actions of PGE2 and other prostanoids.
GASTROPROTECTION
Regulation of renal blood flow
Bronchodilation
Vasoregulation
Describe the gastroprotective action of PGE2.
PGE2 downregulates stomach acid production
PGE2 stimulates mucus production
PGE2 stimulates bicarbonate production