intro & group 1

What roles do functional groups play in drug action?

They influence solubility, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and receptor binding.

How do polar groups like –OH, –COOH, –NH₂ affect solubility?

They increase polarity and water solubility.

Why are alkanes considered unreactive in drugs?

They are saturated hydrocarbons with only C–C and C–H bonds, lacking polarity or reactive sites.

What type of reactions do alkenes typically undergo?

Addition reactions (e.g., hydroxylation, epoxidation).

Which is more reactive: alkenes or alkynes? Why?

Alkenes are generally more reactive than alkynes due to greater bond polarization in the double bond.

Why do aromatic rings undergo substitution rather than addition reactions?

To preserve aromatic stability from resonance.

How does aromatic hydroxylation affect a drug?

Adds an –OH group, increases solubility, and facilitates elimination.

How do substituents affect aromatic hydroxylation?

EDGs (e.g., –OCH₃, alkyl) activate and favor hydroxylation.

EWGs (e.g., –NO₂, halogens) deactivate and reduce hydroxylation.