Untitled Flashcard Set

Potency

A measure of the strength of a drug, usually determined by the concentration required to produce an effect.

Emax

The maximum effect that a drug can achieve regardless of dosage.

TD50

The dose of a drug that causes a toxic effect in 50% of the population.

Therapeutic Index

The ratio between the toxic dose and the effective dose of a drug.

Schedule I drugs

Drugs with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, such as heroin.

Schedule IV drugs

Drugs with a low potential for abuse and accepted medical uses, such as Xanax.

Aspirin

A medication used to reduce pain, fever, and inflammation.

Acetaminophen

A common pain reliever and fever reducer, known as paracetamol.

Nicotinic receptors

Receptors that respond to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and are found at neuromuscular junctions.

Alpha 2 receptors

Adrenergic receptors that inhibit the release of norepinephrine and decrease sympathetic outflow.

Streptokinase

An enzyme used as a clot-busting medication in thrombolytic therapy.

Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB)

A selective barrier that prevents certain drugs from entering the brain from the bloodstream.

Benzodiazepines

A class of drugs primarily used for treating anxiety, insomnia, and seizures.

Mechanism of action of antidepressants

Antidepressants work by modifying the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Beta blockers

Medications that decrease heart rate and are often used to manage hypertension and anxiety.

Asthma medications

Drugs such as bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory agents used to relieve asthma symptoms.