Nutritional Pharmacology Flashcards
What is defined as a substance that treats or prevents disease in humans according to the MHRA?
A medicine.
Name the four main regulatory restrictions governing drugs.
- Intended mode of action
- Supply route (POM, Controlled medicines, PO, GSL)
- Prescription only medications (POM)
- Over-the-counter medications (OTC).
What are OTC drugs commonly used for?
Self-medication for common illnesses.
What are the two types of ingredients in a drug?
Active ingredients and inactive ingredients.
What does ADME stand for in pharmacokinetics?
Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion.
What is the purpose of first-pass metabolism?
It metabolizes drugs in the liver before they enter systemic circulation, which can reduce their effectiveness.
What are common side effects of drugs?
Nausea, dizziness, headaches, and skin rashes.
How do drugs interact with nutrients?
Some drugs can deplete nutrients, while certain foods and supplements can affect drug metabolism and effectiveness.
What nutrient does Metformin commonly deplete?
Vitamin B12.
Q: Name two common interactions that can occur with drugs and foods.
A: Garlic can interact with anticoagulants; grapefruit can inhibit CYP3A4, affecting statins.
Q: What long-term risks are associated with the use of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)?
A: Increased risk of bone fractures, vitamin B12 deficiency, and gastrointestinal infections.
Q: Which drug class is known to deplete CoQ10?
A: Statins.
Q: What should be monitored when a patient is taking Warfarin?
A: Vitamin K intake and INR levels to manage clotting risk.
Q: What is serotonin syndrome, and when can it occur?
A: A potentially fatal condition caused by excessive serotonin due to drug interactions, often with SSRIs and St. John’s wort.
Q: Which herbs may interact with blood-thinning medications?
A: Ginkgo and garlic.
Q: What is pharmacodynamics?
A: The study of how drugs interact with the body to exert their effects, including their mode of action and the factors affecting their action.
Q: What are the four key processes of pharmacokinetics?
A: Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion (ADME).
Q: How do drugs exert their effects?
A: By interacting with specific receptors in the body, leading to various physiological responses.
Q: What can influence a drug’s metabolism?
A: Genetic factors, age, medical conditions (e.g., liver disease), and interactions with other drugs or foods.
Q: Name common long-term side effects of drug therapy.
A: Nutrient deficiencies, metabolic effects, dependence, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease.
Q: What is the role of the cytochrome P450 enzyme system?
A: It plays a critical role in the metabolism of many drugs, influencing their effectiveness and the risk of side effects.
Q: Which drug can cause gastrointestinal issues due to decreased gastric acid?
A: Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs).
Q: What are the common categories of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs?
A: Analgesics, laxatives, antacids, antihistamines, decongestants.
Q: How can dietary changes affect medication?
A: For example, a high-protein diet may reduce the effectiveness of theophylline, and high-fiber diets can reduce the absorption of certain antidepressants.
Q: What is the consequence of abrupt withdrawal from corticosteroids?
A: It can lead to acute adrenal insufficiency, hypotension, or even death.
Q: What nutrients are often depleted by long-term use of corticosteroids?
A: Calcium, Vitamin D, and magnesium.
Q: Which types of patients are at increased risk of drug interactions?
A: Elderly patients, those with multiple prescriptions (polypharmacy), and patients with renal or liver dysfunction.
Q: What is meant by “narrow therapeutic index” (NTI) drugs?
A: Drugs that require careful monitoring as small changes in dosage can lead to toxicity or therapeutic failure (e.g., warfarin, digoxin).
Q: How can alcohol interact with medications?
A: It can inhibit drug metabolism, leading to increased effects or toxicity, and can magnify the effects of sedative drugs.
Q: What are some examples of drugs that can induce nutrient depletions?
A: Statins (CoQ10), diuretics (potassium, magnesium), antibiotics (B vitamins), and antacids (calcium, iron).
Q: What type of medications require monitoring of potassium levels?
A: Diuretics and digoxin, especially in cases of hypokalemia.
Q: What is the primary effect of NSAIDs on the gastrointestinal system?
A: They can inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, leading to increased risk of gastric bleeding and ulceration.
Q: Which nutrient does Omeprazole, a common PPI, deplete?
A: Magnesium, leading to potential hypomagnesemia.
Q: Why is it important for nutritional therapists to understand drug interactions?
A: To prevent adverse effects and ensure safe and effective nutritional support for clients on medications.
Q: What should be monitored in a patient taking warfarin?
A: INR (International Normalized Ratio) and dietary vitamin K intake.
Q: How can a nutritional therapist assist a client on multiple medications?
A: By reviewing their medication regimen, identifying potential interactions, and recommending dietary modifications to support health.
