Pharmacology of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

1. Introduction/Overview Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) constitute one of the most widely prescribed and utilized classes of therapeutic agents globally. These compounds are defined by their shared ability to inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, thereby reducing the synthesis of prostanoids, which are key mediators of inflammation, pain, and fever. The clinical importance of NSAIDs is underscored … Read more

Pharmacology of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

1. Introduction/Overview Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) constitute a chemically diverse group of therapeutic agents united by their shared pharmacological properties of analgesia, antipyresis, and anti-inflammatory activity. These drugs represent one of the most widely prescribed and utilized classes of medications globally, available both by prescription and as over-the-counter preparations. Their clinical importance stems from their … Read more

Pharmacology of Opioid Analgesics

Introduction/Overview Opioid analgesics constitute a cornerstone class of medications for the management of moderate to severe pain. Their therapeutic application spans acute postoperative pain, cancer-related pain, and certain chronic non-cancer pain states, though their use in the latter context remains a subject of considerable debate due to risks of tolerance, dependence, and misuse. The clinical … Read more

Pharmacology of Opioid Analgesics

Introduction/Overview Opioid analgesics constitute a cornerstone class of medications for the management of moderate to severe pain. Their therapeutic application spans acute postoperative settings, traumatic injury, cancer-related pain, and certain chronic non-cancer pain conditions, though their use in the latter context remains a subject of considerable clinical debate. The profound efficacy of these agents is … Read more

Pharmacology of Fentanyl

Introduction/Overview Fentanyl represents a cornerstone synthetic opioid analgesic with profound clinical utility and significant public health implications. First synthesized in 1960, its development marked a pivotal advancement in pain management, offering potency approximately 50 to 100 times greater than morphine. The clinical relevance of fentanyl is dual-faceted, encompassing its essential role in managing severe acute … Read more

Pharmacology of Tramadol

Introduction/Overview Tramadol is a centrally acting synthetic analgesic agent with a complex and unique pharmacological profile. It occupies a distinct position in the therapeutic armamentarium for pain management, bridging the gap between non-opioid analgesics and traditional strong opioids. Since its introduction in the late 1970s, its clinical use has expanded significantly due to its perceived … Read more