Antidiuretics (Antidiuretic Agents)

Antidiuretics are pharmacological agents that reduce urine formation by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys. These agents conserve body water and are essential in the treatment of conditions like diabetes insipidus, nocturnal enuresis, and some forms of hypotension. The primary natural antidiuretic hormone in the body is vasopressin (ADH), secreted by the posterior pituitary gland. … Read more

Diuretics

Diuretics are pharmacological agents that promote the excretion of water and electrolytes (primarily sodium and chloride) from the body via the kidneys, increasing urine output. They are primarily used in the management of hypertension, edematous states (such as congestive heart failure, hepatic cirrhosis, and nephrotic syndrome), and certain renal disorders. By altering renal sodium handling, … Read more

Plasma Volume Expanders

Plasma volume expanders are a diverse group of pharmacological agents and intravenous solutions used to restore and maintain the circulating blood volume, especially in cases of hypovolemia due to trauma, hemorrhage, burns, shock, or surgical procedures. They act by increasing plasma osmotic or oncotic pressure, thereby drawing fluid from the interstitial and intracellular spaces into … Read more

Anti-Platelet Drugs

Definition Anti-platelet drugs, also known as platelet aggregation inhibitors, are pharmacological agents that interfere with platelet activation and aggregation—key processes in the formation of blood clots (thrombi). Unlike anticoagulants, which act on the coagulation cascade, anti-platelet agents primarily act by inhibiting platelet adhesion, activation, and aggregation, thereby reducing the risk of arterial thrombotic events such … Read more

Fibrinolytics (Thrombolytics)

Fibrinolytics, also known as thrombolytic agents or clot-busting drugs, are a class of drugs that dissolve blood clots by breaking down fibrin, the structural protein of clots. They work by activating plasminogen to plasmin, which degrades fibrin and helps restore normal blood flow. These agents are commonly used in the treatment of conditions such as … Read more

Anticoagulants

Anticoagulants are drugs or chemical substances that prevent or reduce blood coagulation, thereby inhibiting the formation of blood clots (thrombi). They are commonly used to treat or prevent conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, and stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation or other clotting disorders. Examples include heparin, warfarin, and direct oral … Read more

Anti-Hyperlipidemic Drugs: Definition, classification, mechanism of action uses and side effects.

Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of lipids in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides. This condition is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Anti-hyperlipidemic drugs, also known as lipid-lowering agents, are used to manage and reduce high lipid levels to lower the risk of … Read more

Anti-Arrhythmic Drugs: Definition, classification, mechanism of action uses and side effects.

Arrhythmias are disorders of the heart rhythm, which can range from benign to life-threatening conditions. Anti-arrhythmic drugs are used to treat and prevent these rhythm disturbances by modifying the electrical activity of the heart.  Introduction Anti-arrhythmic drugs are medications designed to treat abnormal heart rhythms. They work by altering the electrical impulses in the heart, … Read more

Anti-Anginal Drugs: Definition, classification, mechanism of action uses and side effects.

Angina pectoris, commonly referred to as angina, is a symptom of myocardial ischemia characterized by chest pain or discomfort due to insufficient blood flow to the heart muscle. Anti-anginal drugs are used to alleviate symptoms, improve exercise tolerance, and prevent acute coronary events.  Introduction Anti-anginal drugs are medications designed to manage and treat angina pectoris. … Read more