Pharmacology of Neuromuscular Junction (NMJ) Blockers

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Pharmacology of Neuromuscular Junction (NMJ) Blockers

Introduction The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a specialized synapse where a motor neuron communicates with a skeletal muscle fiber to initiate muscle contraction. This communication relies on the release of acetylcholine (ACh) from the presynaptic terminal of the motor neuron, the subsequent binding of ACh to nicotinic receptors on the postsynaptic muscle membrane, and the resultant end-plate potential that triggers muscle contraction. Neuromuscular junction (NMJ) blockers—also referred to … Read more

Pharmacotherapy of Angina Pectoris

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angina pectoris

Introduction Angina pectoris, often referred to simply as angina, is chest pain or discomfort that arises when the myocardial oxygen supply is insufficient to meet the heart’s metabolic demands. As a cardinal manifestation of coronary artery disease (CAD), angina affects millions of people worldwide, posing a significant burden on healthcare systems and patient quality of … Read more

Cholinomimetic Drugs (Cholinergic Agonists / Parasympathomimetics)

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parasympathomimetics

Introduction Cholinomimetic drugs (also referred to as parasympathomimetics) are agents that mimic or enhance the actions of acetylcholine (ACh), the primary neurotransmitter found at parasympathetic postganglionic nerve endings, neuromuscular junctions, and certain synapses within the central nervous system (CNS). By activating or augmenting cholinergic signaling, cholinomimetic drugs can profoundly influence a wide range of physiological functions, including smooth muscle contraction, glandular secretion, heart rate, pupil size, and more (Goodman & … Read more

Cholinergic Antagonists: A Comprehensive Guide to Parasympatholytics and Antimuscarinic Agents

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Cholinergic antagonists - Parasympatholytics

Introduction Cholinergic antagonists, also known as parasympatholytics or antimuscarinic agents, are a class of drugs that block the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in the parasympathetic nervous system. These medications have a wide range of therapeutic applications, including the treatment of overactive bladder, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), irritable bowel syndrome, and … Read more

Pharmacology of Magnesium Sulfate

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magnesium sulfate

Introduction Magnesium is the fourth most abundant cation in the human body and plays a critical role in numerous physiological processes. Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) is an inorganic salt that has been used medicinally for over a century to treat a variety of conditions. This chapter will provide an overview of the pharmacology of magnesium sulfate, … Read more

Antimicrobial stewardship

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Antimicrobial stewardship

Antimicrobial stewardship is the coordinated set of actions that ensures the optimal selection, dosing, route, and duration of antimicrobial therapy to improve clinical outcomes while minimizing toxicity, resistance, and costs. It is operationalized globally through frameworks such as the CDC Core Elements, IDSA/SHEA implementation guidelines, WHO AWaRe resources, and national guidance like NICE, which together … Read more

Pharmacology of Anxiolytics

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Anxiolytics

Scope and Definition Anxiolytics are a class of pharmacological agents administered to treat pathological anxiety—a set of disorders characterized by excessive and unmanageable worry or fear. Anxiety may be generalized (GAD), situational (phobias), episodic (panic disorder), obsessive-compulsive (OCD), or post-traumatic (PTSD). Clinical management is driven by agent efficacy, risk profile, presence of comorbidities, and short- versus … Read more

Regulatory Pharmacology: A Comprehensive Overview of Drug Safety and Approval

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regulatory pharmacology

Introduction Regulatory Pharmacology is the interdisciplinary field responsible for ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of medicines throughout their entire lifecycle. It stands at the critical intersection of pharmacology, toxicology, and regulatory law, providing the scientific foundation upon which government agencies approve new drugs and monitor their performance in the market. The purpose of this … Read more

Oral Contraceptives: OCPs

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OC pills

Oral contraceptives (OCs) are hormone-containing medications taken to prevent pregnancy and for management of various gynecologic conditions. They are among the most widely used medicines globally, and have undergone major changes in formulation, pharmacokinetics, and safety since their introduction. Types of Oral Contraceptives Type Active Ingredients Examples Clinical Features Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) Estrogen (usually … Read more

Pharmacology of Progesterone

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Progesterone

Introduction Brief Overview of Progesterone Progesterone is a crucial hormone in the human body, predominantly known for its role in the female reproductive system. It is a steroidal hormone primarily produced by the corpus luteum in the ovary following ovulation and in smaller amounts by the adrenal glands. During pregnancy, it is also produced in … Read more