T3- Immune System Drugs (RED ONLY) Flashcards
What are the 3 main drug classes with immune effects?
Glucorticoids
Immunomodulators
Biologics
What are the 3 S?
Sugar (glucocorticoids)
Salt (mineralcorticoids)
Sex (Androgens)
What are the main 3 glucocorticoids?
Hydrocortisone (main?)
Cortisone
Prednisolone
What is the main hormone in the mineralcorticoids?
Aldosterone
What is the main hormone in the androgens?
Testosterone
What are the effects of GCs?
Widespread effects on carb, protein, and lipid metabolism, and electrolyte/water balance.
Excess = insomnia/euphoria followed by depression, aka steroid psychosis.
Deficiency = Depression
What is the MOA of a GC’s antinflammatory/immune effects?
Inhibits production of precursors to prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and PAF.
Suppresses inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and other inflammatory mediators.
Inhibits macrophages and other APCs
Reduces synthesis of arachidonic acid, which leads to reduction of COX 2, reducing prostaglandins.
Reduces antibody production in large doses.
Note:
NSAIDs are also COX inhibitors.
Which GC is often prescribed as a cream and has similar anti-inflammatory effects and mineralcorticoid activity?
Hydrocortisone
What is the MOA of methotrexate?
Binds and inhibits dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR)
Inhibiting tetrahydrofolate synthesis (THF)
Inhibiting synthesis of purine nucleotides and amino acids
Interfering with the formation of DNA, RNA, and cellular proteins
What nucleic acids is leflunomide an analog for?
Pyrimidine
What nucleic acids is azathioprine an analog for?
Purine
Note:
Prine purine
What are the indications for MTX?
RA, psoriasis, several types of cancer.
Off-label use in Crohn’s disease, MS, SLE, and multiple conditions.
What are the indications for leflunomide?
RA. PO administration only
What are the indications for azathioprine?
RA, MS, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, and transplant maintenance.
What is the MOA of tacrolimus and cyclosporine?
Inhibiting T-lymphocyte activation.