Baclofen Baclofen is a centrally‑acting, GABA_B receptor agonist used primarily for the treatment of spasticity in conditions such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and spinal cord disease. It is also employed off‑label for alcohol dependence and chronic pain syndromes. Mechanism of Action Selective activation of GABA_B receptors in the spinal cord’s interneurons → ↓ excitatory … Read more
Bacitracin Bacitracin is a low‑molecular‑weight polypeptide antibiotic produced by Bacillus subtilis. It is primarily used topically for superficial skin infections and as a preservative in ophthalmic and otic preparations. Mechanism of Action Interference with peptidoglycan biosynthesis – Bacitracin binds to the dephosphorylated form of the bactoprenyl carrier (C55‑pyrophosphate), preventing its re‑phosphorylation. Inhibition of lipid carrier … Read more
Azulfidine Azulfidine (sulfasalazine) is a disease‑modifying anti‑inflammatory agent and immunomodulator approved for inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Mechanism of Action Prodrug hydrolysis – In the colon, gut flora enzymatically cleave Azulfidine to release sulfapyridine (antimicrobial) and 5‑aminosalicylic acid (5‑ASA) (anti‑inflammatory). Immunomodulation – 5‑ASA inhibits prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis, scavenges reactive oxygen species, and down‑regulates … Read more
Azilect Mechanism of Action Azilect (rasagiline) is a selective, irreversible monoamine‑oxidase B (MAO‑B) inhibitor. It blocks MAO‑B‑mediated catabolism of dopamine in the central nervous system, increasing synaptic dopamine availability. By sparing MAO‑A, rasagiline produces minimal dietary tyramine sensitivity. Its irreversible inhibition is sustained; dosing once daily suffices despite a short plasma half‑life. Pharmacokinetics Absorption: Rapid oral … Read more
Azelastine Mechanism of Action Azelastine is a highly selective, competitive antagonist of the histamine H₁ receptor located on nasal mucosal cells, vascular endothelium, and sensory nerve endings. Inhibition of histamine release prevents the cascade that leads to vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and sensory nerve stimulation. By blocking peripheral H₁ receptors, it reduces the symptoms of … Read more
Avsola Avsola (generic name avacopan) is a once‑daily oral, selective C5a receptor antagonist indicated for the treatment of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‑associated vasculitis (AAV). Mechanism of Action Inhibits the C5a‑receptor on neutrophils, monocytes, and tissue macrophages Prevents C5a‑mediated chemotaxis, degranulation, and release of pro‑inflammatory cytokines Reduces endothelial injury and downstream vascular inflammation characteristic of AAV Pharmacokinetics Parameter … Read more
Avonex Avonex (interferon‑β‑1a, 30 µg/ml) is a recombinant viral‑derived interferon indicated for relapsing‑remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). It is administered subcutaneously once weekly. Mechanism of Action Avonex modulates immune function via: Inhibition of pro‑inflammatory cytokines (IL‑1, TNF‑α, IFN‑γ) and enhancement of anti‑inflammatory cytokines (IL‑10). ↓ T‑cell migration across the blood–brain barrier by down‑regulating adhesion molecules (ICAM‑1, VCAM‑1). … Read more
Auvi‑Q Auvi‑Q is a portable, battery‑powered automated external defibrillator (AED) designed for rapid seizure of ventricular fibrillation (VF) and ventricular tachycardia (VT). It delivers synchronized shock energy while providing real‑time rhythm analysis and voice instructions. Mechanism of Action Electro‑cardiographic (ECG) detection: The device continuously monitors the intracardiac electromechanical activity to identify VF/VT that require defibrillation. … Read more
Auvelity Auvelity (generic brexpiprazole) is a serotonin‑dopamine activity modulator approved by the FDA in 2022 for adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults who have had an inadequate response to at least one selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or serotonin‑norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). — Mechanism of Action Partial agonist at 5‑HT₁A receptors – … Read more
Austedo Austedo (tolcapone) is a potent, selective catechol‑O‑methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor approved for use in Parkinson’s disease (PD) to enhance the efficacy of levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet®). It prolongs levodopa bioavailability by preventing its peripheral metabolism, thus reducing OFF periods and improving motor function. — Mechanism of Action Peripheral COMT inhibition: Tolcapone blocks the COMT enzyme that catalyzes … Read more