Drugs for Neuromuscular Disorders

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and definitions related to drugs for neuromuscular disorders discussed in the lecture.

Muscle Spasm

An involuntary contraction of a muscle or muscle groups that locks them into a contracted state.

Tonic Spasm

A single and prolonged muscular contraction.

Clonic Spasm

Multiple, rapidly repeating muscle contractions.

Dystonia

A chronic neurologic disorder characterized by involuntary contractions that force the body into abnormal postures.

Intermittent Claudication

A condition caused by a circulatory problem where the lower extremity does not get sufficient oxygen to the muscle tissue, leading to cramping.

Spasticity

A condition that includes tonic spasm, characterized by involuntary jerking movements and increased muscle tone.

Centrally Acting Muscle Relaxants

Medications such as cyclobenzaprine which work at the central nervous system level to treat spasms.

Direct Acting Muscle Relaxants

Medications like dantrolene that work directly at the neuromuscular junction and skeletal muscle level.

Capsaicin

A topical application derived from red pepper that provides heat to help relax muscle tissue.

Neuromuscular Blocking Agents

Medications used to assist in anesthesia that can cause muscle relaxation and may have adverse effects like malignant hyperthermia.

Polypharmacy

The simultaneous use of multiple drugs by a single patient, which can exacerbate the effects of medications.

Non-Pharmacologic Therapies

Methods such as physical therapy, patient positioning, and supervised exercises used alongside medications.