Introduction to Autacoids: Local hormones like histamine, serotonin, prostaglandins. Introduction to Autacoids: Used in allergy, inflammation, and cardiovascular disorders. What Are Autacoids? Autacoids are biologically active substances produced within the body that act locally to regulate various physiological functions. Unlike hormones, which are secreted into the bloodstream and act on distant targets, autacoids exert their … Read more
Definition of Anti-Diuretics: Anti-diuretics are agents that reduce urine production and increase water reabsorption in the kidneys. They are used to manage conditions like diabetes insipidus, nocturia, and certain cases of edema. Classes of Anti-Diuretics: 1. Desmopressin (DDAVP): Mechanism: Synthetic analog of vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone, ADH). Binds to V2 receptors in the renal collecting ducts, … Read more
Definition of Diuretics: Diuretics are medications that promote the excretion of water and electrolytes by the kidneys, increasing urine output. They are used in conditions like hypertension, heart failure, edema, and certain renal disorders. Classes of Diuretics: 1. Thiazide Diuretics: Examples: Hydrochlorothiazide, Chlorthalidone, Indapamide. Mechanism: Inhibit the sodium-chloride symporter in the distal convoluted tubule, reducing … Read more
Urinary System Definition of Urinary System The urinary system (renal system) removes waste, maintains electrolyte balance, regulates blood pressure, and produces hormones. Anatomy Kidneys (2): Filter blood, regulate fluid, electrolytes, acid-base balance, and produce hormones (erythropoietin, renin). Ureters (2): Transport urine to the bladder via peristalsis. Bladder: Stores urine (300–500 mL capacity). Urethra: Excretes urine. … Read more
Definition of Anti-Platelet Drugs Anti-Platelet Drugs agents inhibit platelet aggregation and activation, thereby preventing thrombus formation. Classes of Anti-Platelet Agents Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid): Mechanism: Irreversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), reducing thromboxane A2 synthesis, which decreases platelet aggregation. Use: Prevention of AMI, stroke, and in peripheral arterial disease. Side Effects: Gastrointestinal ulcers, bleeding, Reye’s syndrome in children. … Read more
Definition of Fibrinolytics: Fibrinolytics, also known as thrombolytics, are agents that dissolve blood clots by activating the fibrinolytic system. Mechanism of Action Activation of Plasminogen: Fibrinolytics convert plasminogen to plasmin, an enzyme that degrades fibrin clots. Cleavage of Fibrin: Plasmin breaks down fibrin into soluble degradation products, dissolving the clot. Common Fibrinolytic Agents Alteplase (tPA): … Read more
Definition of Anticoagulants: Anticoagulants inhibit various components of the coagulation cascade to prevent thrombus formation, used in conditions at risk for thrombosis. Heparin and Low Molecular Weight Heparins (LMWHs) Examples: Enoxaparin Mechanism: Heparin activates antithrombin III, which inactivates thrombin and factor Xa; LMWHs have more selective inhibition of factor Xa. Use: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), … Read more
Definition of Coagulants: Coagulants are agents that promote clotting, used in conditions where there is a deficiency or dysfunction in the clotting cascade. Vitamin K: Mechanism: Essential for γ-carboxylation of certain glutamate residues in clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X, as well as proteins C and S. Use: Vitamin K deficiency, warfarin reversal, hemorrhagic … Read more
Definition of Blood Clotting (Coagulation): Blood clotting, or coagulation, is a complex physiological process that prevents excessive bleeding (hemostasis) when a blood vessel is injured. It involves platelets, clotting factors, and the coagulation cascade to form a stable fibrin clot. Phases of Blood Clotting Vascular Spasm (Vasoconstriction): Immediate narrowing of the blood vessel to reduce … Read more
Definition of Hematinics: Hematinics are agents that improve the hemoglobin content of the blood, thereby enhancing oxygen-carrying capacity. They are primarily used to treat anemia. Some Major Hematinic Agents: 1. Iron Preparations: Ferrous Sulfate, Ferrous Gluconate: Mechanism: Supply elemental iron for hemoglobin synthesis. Use: Iron deficiency anemia. Side Effects: Gastrointestinal upset, dark stools. Iron Sucrose, … Read more
