Principles of Pharmacology

Flashcards for reviewing key concepts of pharmacology, focusing on drug names, actions, processes, interactions, and influences on therapy.

What are the three types of drug names?

Chemical, generic, and brand names.

What does pharmacokinetics refer to?

What the body does to the drug.

What does pharmacodynamics refer to?

What the drug does to the body.

What is pharmacotherapeutics?

The use of drugs in the treatment of disease.

What is an agonist?

A drug that attaches at the receptor site and activates it, producing an effect similar to the body's own chemicals.

What is a partial agonist?

A drug that attaches at the receptor site but produces only a slight chemical action.

What is an antagonist?

A drug that attaches at the receptor site but produces no chemical response, preventing receptor activation.

What are the four basic processes of drug action?

Absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

What is absorption in pharmacology?

How a drug enters the body and passes into circulation.

How does diffusion work in drug absorption?

Movement from high to low concentration.

What is the first-pass effect?

The quick passage of a drug through the GI tract to the liver where it's largely inactivated.

What does the term bioequivalence mean?

A generic drug is equivalent to the brand name drug in dosage form, strength, route of administration, quality, and intended use.

What is the definition of half-life in pharmacology?

The time it takes for the body to eliminate 50% of a drug.

What are side effects?

Mild responses to a drug.

What are adverse effects or reactions?

More severe symptoms or problems that arise from drug therapy.

What factors can influence drug therapy?

Hydration, low blood pressure, shock, heart failure, reduced blood flow, other drug use, alcohol intake, liver problems.

What is meant by 'additive effect' in drug interactions?

When two drugs work together to enhance each other's effects.

What is an antagonistic effect in drug interactions?

When one drug lessens the effect of another drug.

What is the difference between food interactions and alcohol interactions with drugs?

Food interactions can affect absorption or effects of drugs, while alcohol interactions can enhance or diminish the effects of drugs.

What should be included in drug cards?

Trade and generic name, dosage range, desired action, expected side effects, adverse effects, administration method, and important information.