Introduction Sodium (Na⁺) channels are integral membrane proteins responsible for the rapid upstroke (phase 0) of the action potential in excitable cells such as neurons and cardiomyocytes. By selectively perming sodium ions across membranes, these channels facilitate depolarization, triggering electrical signals essential for neurotransmission, skeletal muscle contraction, and cardiac conduction. As a result, therapeutic modulation … Read more
Introduction Nausea and vomiting are protective reflexes designed to prevent the ingestion or continued digestion of harmful toxins. However, when severe, they can significantly deteriorate patient comfort, compromise treatment adherence, and lead to complications such as electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, and undernutrition. Antiemetic drugs play a critical role across various clinical contexts—perioperative care, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, infectious gastroenteritis, … Read more
Histamine H2 receptor antagonists are competitive blockers of gastric parietal-cell H2 receptors that suppress basal and stimulated acid secretion and are used for GERD, peptic ulcer disease, hypersecretory states, and selected prophylaxis indications, with famotidine preferred clinically because of potency and safety while ranitidine has been withdrawn for NDMA contamination concerns. The class reduces nocturnal … Read more
Introduction Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have revolutionized the management of acid-related gastrointestinal (GI) disorders by rendering potent and long-lasting suppression of gastric acid secretion. Introduced in the late twentieth century, PPIs—exemplified by omeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole, esomeprazole, and dexlansoprazole—effectively mitigate gastric hyperacidity, enabling healing of peptic ulceration and alleviation of reflux symptoms (Katzung, 2020). Used extensively for indications ranging from peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and gastroesophageal reflux … Read more
Sedative-hypnotics are a class of drugs that work on the central nervous system (CNS) to produce a calming or drowsy effect and are often prescribed for insomnia, anxiety, and seizure disorders. They can be classified into three main categories: benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and Z-drugs (non-benzodiazepine hypnotics). Here’s a brief overview of these classes, along with some … Read more
Understanding the action of drugs on the autonomic nervous system (ANS) can be simplified by drawing a comparison with the adrenaline/epinephrine-induced fight, flight, and fright response. This response, also known as the acute stress response, is the body’s physiological reaction to perceived harmful events, attacks, or threats to survival. To better comprehend the role of … Read more
Brief Summary Drugs can increase monoaminergic transmission by inhibiting the metabolism or reuptake of neurotransmitters such as serotonin (5-HT) and noradrenaline (NA). MAO Inhibitors Reuptake Inhibitors I. Tricyclic antidepressants Tricyclic Antidepressants and Serotonin-Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA) inhibit serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake, leading to increased transmitter concentration in the synaptic cleft. Bupropion also inhibits … Read more
Introduction Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions globally, encompassing generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety, phobias, and more. Characterized by excessive worry, fear, and sympathetic hyperarousal, these conditions can significantly impair quality of life and daily functioning. Antianxiety drugs, also known as anxiolytics, form an essential component of treatment, often … Read more
Introduction The field of antipsychotic pharmacology continues to evolve as our understanding of the central nervous system advances. Antipsychotic drugs, also known as neuroleptics, are primarily used to manage psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe depression with psychotic features, and acute psychosis resulting from various underlying etiologies. Their effectiveness in treating the positive symptoms of schizophrenia—such as delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized … Read more
Introduction Oral contraceptive drugs, employed primarily for preventing unwanted pregnancies, embody a range of formulations with distinct pharmacological profiles to cater to individual needs. Here’s a comprehensive overview of their pharmacology, types, recent advancements, adverse effects, and contraindications: Oral Contraceptive Pills: An Overview Oral contraceptive pills, often simply referred to as “the pill,” are a … Read more