NSAIDs

These flashcards cover key concepts related to Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), their mechanisms, effects, and historical context, as outlined in the lecture notes.

What are Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)?

A class of drugs that reduce inflammation, fever, and pain without using steroids.

Explain the biological mechanism involved in prostaglandin production.

Prostaglandins are lipid compounds derived from arachidonic acid that act like local hormones, produced in nearly all tissues and have diverse physiological roles.

What is the difference between COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitors?

COX-1 is a housekeeping enzyme present in most tissues, while COX-2 is induced during inflammatory responses.

What are common side effects of NSAIDs?

Gastric toxicity, renal toxicity, and potential for gastrointestinal ulcers.

What is the role of arachidonic acid in the body?

Arachidonic acid is a precursor for local mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, involved in inflammation and homeostasis.

How does aspirin function as an NSAID?

Aspirin irreversibly inhibits COX enzymes, preventing the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, thus exerting its anti-inflammatory effects.

What are some examples of NSAIDs?

Aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, and celecoxib.

What is the pharmacological category of aspirin?

Analgesic, nonopioid; antiplatelet agent; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.

Describe the history of aspirin.

Aspirin was first produced in 1897 by Felix Hoffmann and has undergone various developments including its use for anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular effects.

What are the risks associated with paracetamol overdoses?

Can lead to hepatotoxicity due to the accumulation of toxic metabolites when glutathione is depleted.

What is the mechanism of action of ibuprofen as an NSAID?

Ibuprofen competitively binds to the COX enzyme, preventing the access of arachidonic acid.

How does aspirin achieve its cardio-selective effect?

It irreversibly inhibits COX activity in platelets, preventing thromboxane A2 formation and reducing platelet aggregation.

What interventions can be utilized in paracetamol poisoning?

Administering N-acetylcysteine or methionine to restore glutathione levels.

Why is paracetamol considered controversial in the NSAID category?

It has minimal anti-inflammatory effects and mainly provides analgesic and antipyretic benefits.

What is the role of prostaglandins in the body?

They mediate various functions like pain sensation, regulation of body temperature, and maintenance of homeostasis in different tissues.

What is the consequence of a drug overdose for NSAIDs?

Can lead to severe side effects including gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and exacerbation of existing conditions.