Pharmacology Study Guide (Respiratory Care – NBRC Focus)

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions from a pharmacology study guide focused on respiratory care and the NBRC exam.

Pharmacology

The study of drugs and their effects.

Pharmacokinetics (PK)

What the body does to the drug, commonly represented as ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Elimination).

Pharmacodynamics (PD)

What the drug does to the body.

Half-life

Time for 50% of a drug to be eliminated from the body.

Therapeutic range

The safe and effective drug level in the body.

Inhalation

A route of drug administration that allows fast onset, direct lung delivery, and fewer systemic effects.

Oral (PO)

A route of drug administration that results in a slower onset and is affected by first-pass metabolism.

IV

Intravenous administration providing an immediate effect but with the highest risk.

IM/SubQ

Intramuscular/Subcutaneous administration that allows for slower, sustained release of drugs.

Absorption

The entry of the drug into the bloodstream.

Distribution

The transport of the drug throughout the body.

Metabolism

The process of liver breakdown of the drug.

Elimination

The removal of the drug from the body by the kidneys.

Agonist

A drug that activates a receptor.

Antagonist

A drug that blocks a receptor.

Dose-response relationship

The relationship that determines the effect of a drug based on the dose administered.

Albuterol

A drug associated with adverse effects such as tachycardia and tremors.

Ipratropium

A drug associated with the adverse effect of dry mouth.

Steroids

Drugs that can cause hyperglycemia and increase the risk of infection.

Additive drug interaction

An interaction that results in an increased effect when two drugs are combined.

Synergistic drug interaction

An interaction that leads to a greatly increased effect of two drugs when combined.

Antagonistic drug interaction

An interaction that reduces the effect of one drug when combined with another.

Pediatrics

A special population known for faster drug metabolism.

Elderly

A special population at increased risk for drug toxicity.

Pregnancy

A condition where drugs can cross the placenta.

Breastfeeding

A condition where drugs can be present in breast milk.

Pharmacogenomics

The study of how genetic differences influence drug response and side effects.

Factors Affecting Drug Response

Age, weight, disease state, liver/kidney function, drug interactions, and compliance.

RT Responsibilities

Includes ensuring the right patient, drug, dose, route, and time; monitoring response; and documenting and reassessing the patient.

Drug Overdose

Management includes stopping the drug, supporting ABCs, notifying the physician, and administering an antidote if ordered.

NBRC Exam Pearls

Key notes including that inhalation is best for lung delivery, IV is fastest but highest risk, and reassessment after treatment is essential.