skin and connective tissue

Question 1

topical corticosteroids

method of action:
uses:
side effect:
contraindications:
example:

Answer 1

Method of Action: Anti-inflammatory treatment by binging to steroid receptors affecting intracellular transcription

Uses: Eczema, psoriasis, lichen planus, lupus erythematous and skin irritation

Side effect: Inflamed hair follicles, contact dermatitis, acne or stretch marks

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, acne and perioral dermatitis

Example: Hydrocortisone

Question 2

emollients

method of action:
uses:
side effect:
contraindications:
example:

Answer 2

Method of Action: Form an oily layer on the skin that traps water, decreases itching and flaking

Uses: Dry, rough, itchy or scaly skin

Side effect: Stinging, redness, burning and irritation

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity

Example: Occlusive or Humectant emollients

Question 3

antihistamines

method of action:
uses:
side effect:
contraindications:
example:

Answer 3

Method of Action: Binds to cellular histamine receptors leading to downregulation

Uses: Allergic reactions

Side effect: Dizziness, dry mouth, drowsiness and visual disturbances

Contraindications: Hyperthyroidism, hypertension, enlarged prostate and urinary blockage

Example: Loratadine

Question 4

bisphosphonates

method of action:
uses:
side effect:
contraindications:
example:

Answer 4

Method of Action: Inhibit osteoclastic bone resorption

Uses: Osteoporosis

Side effect: BRONJ (causes necrosis of the bone following XLA), muscle or joint pain and

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, hypocalcaemia, Barrett’s oesophagus and inability to stand upright for longer than 30 seconds

Example: Alendronic Acid

Question 5

DMARDS - disease modifying antirheumatic drugs

method of action:

Answer 5

A category of UNRELATED drugs that are defined by their reduction in the progression of rheumatoid arthritis

Method of Action: Multiple, depends on the drug

Prednisolone: A potent corticosteroid
Cyclosporine: An immunosuppressant (gum overgrowth)
Methatrexate: An immunosuppressant
Hydroxychloroquine: An antimalarial (suppresses IL-1, a pro-inflammatory cytokine)
Infliximab: Biological medication (suppresses TNFα)