1. Introduction to Lipoproteins and Lipid Metabolism Hyperlipidemia (or dyslipidemia) is defined as an elevation in plasma lipids, including cholesterol, cholesterol esters, triglycerides (TGs), and phospholipids. These lipids are insoluble in water and must be transported in the blood complexed with specialized proteins known as apoproteins (apolipoproteins). The lipid-protein complex is called a lipoprotein. Figure … Read more
Executive Summary The nomenclature of pharmaceutical agents is not merely a bureaucratic exercise in labeling; it is the foundational linguistic infrastructure of modern medicine. It serves as the critical interface between chemical innovation, regulatory oversight, clinical practice, and patient safety. From the precise molecular definitions required by synthetic chemists to the memorable brand names crafted … Read more
I. Introduction and Electrophysiological Basis Cardiac arrhythmias are disorders of the heart rate or rhythm caused by abnormalities in electrical impulse formation or conduction. Antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) aim to restore normal sinus rhythm (NSR) or control ventricular rate, though they are characterized by a narrow therapeutic index and a paradoxical potential to induce lethal arrhythmias … Read more
Scope: Pathophysiology, Drug Classifications, Mechanisms of Action, Clinical Pharmacology, and Therapeutic Guidelines. I. Introduction and Pathophysiology Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory disorder characterized by a breach in the mucosa of the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the proximal duodenum (duodenal ulcer) extending through the muscularis mucosae. The pathophysiology of PUD is best … Read more
1. Introduction to Diabetes Mellitus and Glycemic Control 1.1. Overview of Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is not a single entity but a heterogeneous group of metabolic disorders characterised by chronic hyperglycemia. This elevated blood glucose results from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or, most commonly, both. The chronic nature of this hyperglycemia is … Read more
Steady state is a cornerstone concept in clinical pharmacokinetics. It connects dose, dosing interval, and patient-specific clearance to the drug concentrations that drive therapeutic and adverse effects. Yet, “steady state” is often misunderstood or oversimplified. This chapter explains what steady state is (and is not), how it arises under different dosing schemes, how to calculate … Read more
There are four classes of drug receptors, G protein-coupled receptors, ligand-gated ion channels, enzyme-linked receptors (receptor tyrosine kinases and cytokine receptors), and intracellular nuclear receptors, each of which transmits its signals through different, but well-defined pathways, from ligand binding to cellular action. ⓘ Quick overview Most receptor pharmacology is organized into four classes: ligand-gated ion … Read more
Main Takeaway: India lacks a unified regulatory framework for OTC drugs, creating a complex landscape where medications not listed as prescription-only are sold over-the-counter. With 62.3% of urban populations practicing self-medication and an estimated market value of ₹188.6 billion, the CDSCO’s upcoming 2025 OTC Drug Regulation represents a significant step toward establishing proper oversight and … Read more
Main Takeaway: Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are non-prescription medications available directly to consumers for self-treatment of common ailments. With over 800 active ingredients comprising more than 100,000 products, OTC medications provide safe and effective treatment when used as directed, though they require careful attention to labeling and proper usage to avoid potential risks. 1. Definition and … Read more
Main Takeaway: A P-drug is a prescriber’s personal choice of first-line medicine for a specific indication, selected through a systematic and evidence-based process. Developing and maintaining a personal formulary of P-drugs streamlines decision-making, promotes rational therapeutics, and enhances patient safety. 1. Definition and Purpose of P-Drugs A P-drug (“personal drug”) is not merely the generic … Read more