I. Introduction and Class Overview Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs) are a class of drugs that reversibly inhibit the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, thereby interfering with HCO₃⁻ (bicarbonate) reabsorption and decreasing hydrogen ion secretion in several tissues. Their major clinical uses are as diuretics, in the management of glaucoma, acute mountain sickness, certain epilepsies, and as adjuncts … Read more
Mechanism of Action: Osmotic diuretics work by increasing the osmolarity of the filtrate in the renal tubules. The glomerulus filters them but does not reabsorb them, creating an osmotic gradient that draws water into the nephron. This results in increased urine output and decreased intracranial and intraocular pressure. Pharmacokinetics: Drug Examples: Clinical Use: Side Effects: … Read more
Potassium-sparing diuretics are a class of diuretic medications that increase diuresis (urine production) while conserving potassium, contrasting with thiazide and loop diuretics that promote potassium loss. They are used primarily to counteract hypokalemia and as adjuncts in conditions involving excessive fluid retention or aldosterone excess. Classification and Key Agents Class Main Drugs Site of Action … Read more
Thiazide diuretics are cornerstone antihypertensive and mild‑to‑moderate diuretic agents that inhibit the thiazide‑sensitive Na‑Cl cotransporter in the distal convoluted tubule, lowering blood pressure and mobilizing edema with characteristic effects on potassium, sodium, uric acid, calcium, and magnesium handling. Their clinical utility spans first‑line therapy for primary hypertension, adjunctive treatment of edema, prevention of recurrent calcium … Read more
Introduction Loop diuretics are a cornerstone of therapy in conditions where rapid and potent diuresis (urine output) is required. By inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption in the thick ascending limb (TAL) of the loop of Henle, loop diuretics evoke profound excretion of sodium, chloride, and water—often making them the most efficacious diuretic class available. Clinicians rely heavily … Read more
Zero-Order Kinetics Definition: In zero-order kinetics, the rate of drug elimination is constant and does not depend on the drug concentration. This is often seen with drugs that saturate the body’s ability to metabolize or eliminate them. Equation: The rate equation for zero-order kinetics is: Where (k) is the rate constant. Clinical Importance: Zero-order kinetics … Read more
Extending the duration of a drug action can offer several advantages, such as enhanced patient compliance, reduced frequency of dosing, and minimized side effects. However, it’s crucial to understand that not all drugs are suitable for prolongation strategies. Here are some of the more detailed methods commonly employed to extend the action of a drug. … Read more
Understanding the kinetics of how a drug is removed from the body is foundational for creating and adjusting rational dosage plans tailored to individual patient needs. Three key pharmacokinetic parameters must be comprehended: bioavailability (F), volume of distribution (Vd), and clearance (CL). The first two have been previously discussed. Drug Elimination Drug elimination comprises both … Read more
Introduction Welcome to this all-encompassing guide to Diuretics and Antidiuretics. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a student, or someone simply interested in pharmacology, this article is designed to help you understand these fascinating drug classes in brief (this is not a detailed overview). Let’s dive right in! What Are Diuretics? Diuretics are a class of … Read more
Metformin, a cornerstone in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, is one of the most commonly prescribed oral antidiabetic agents worldwide. Originally discovered from a natural plant source known as Galega officinalis (French lilac or goat’s rue), metformin has a long history of clinical use. Its popularity is largely due to its robust efficacy … Read more