Drug addiction, clinically referred to as Substance Use Disorder (SUD), is a chronic, progressive, and relapsing brain disease that manifests as an uncontrollable compulsion to seek and use drugs, despite the detrimental consequences it brings to physical, psychological, social, and occupational well-being. It is recognized not only as a complex disorder of the brain’s reward … Read more
Central Nervous System Stimulants Central Nervous System (CNS) Stimulants comprise a diverse and pharmacologically significant class of psychoactive substances that exert excitatory effects on the brain and spinal cord. These agents function primarily by enhancing the synaptic activity of various excitatory neurotransmitters—most notably dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin—resulting in a heightened state of mental alertness, elevated … Read more
Local anesthetic agents are medications used to induce reversible loss of sensation in a specific area of the body, without causing loss of consciousness. They are widely employed in various medical procedures to alleviate pain and discomfort. Here’s a detailed note covering their definition, classification, pharmacological actions, doses, indications, and contraindications: Definition: Local anaesthetics … Read more
Alkaloids, a diverse group of naturally occurring organic compounds, exhibit various therapeutic activities. Many alkaloids have been harnessed for their pharmacological effects and find applications in various pharmaceutical formulations. Here’s a detailed note on the therapeutic activity and pharmaceutical applications of alkaloids: 1. Analgesic and Antinociceptive Activity – Examples: Morphine, Codeine, Papaverine. – … Read more
Adrenergic drugs, also known as adrenergic agonists or sympathomimetic drugs, are medications that mimic or enhance the effects of norepinephrine and epinephrine, which are neurotransmitters and hormones that activate adrenergic receptors in the body. Adrenergic receptors are part of the sympathetic nervous system and play a role in the “fight or flight” response. These drugs … Read more
