8. DRUG INTERACTIONS
Introduction Drug interactions occur when the effect of one drug is changed by the presence of another drug, food or chemical. This interaction may increase or decrease the action of…
9. PHARMACOLOGY OF DRUGS ACTING ON ANS
Introduction The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls involuntary functions of the body such as heart rate, digestion, breathing, glandular secretion and smooth muscle activity. Drugs acting on the ANS are…
10. ADRENERGIC AND ANTI-ADRENERGIC DRUGS
Introduction The sympathetic nervous system controls the body’s “fight or flight” responses. It uses adrenaline and noradrenaline (catecholamines) to activate different organs. Drugs that act on this system are called…
11. CHOLINERGIC AND ANTICHOLINERGIC DRUGS AND NEUROMUSCULAR BOCKERS
Introduction The cholinergic system controls many involuntary body functions through the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). Drugs that increase ACh actions are called cholinergic drugs. Drugs that block its actions are called…
12. MYDRIATICS AND MIOTICS
Introduction Mydriatics and miotics are important ophthalmic drugs used during eye examination and in treating eye diseases. Mydriatics dilate the pupil, while miotics constrict the pupil. These drugs act on…
13. NEUROMUSCULAR BLOCKERS
Introduction Neuromuscular blockers are drugs that relax skeletal muscles by blocking transmission at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). They are commonly used during surgical procedures, endotracheal intubation and in conditions where…
14. DRUGS USED IN MYASTHENIA GRAVIS
Introduction Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the neuromuscular junction and causes fluctuating weakness of voluntary muscles. The condition is due to antibodies that attack nicotinic acetylcholine…