Drugs
Details From Drugs :
Drugs are type of Madicine_
A drug is a substance, other than food or essential nutrients, that when taken into the body can affect how the body functions, both physically and mentally. The term "drug" encompasses a wide range of substances, from prescription medications used to treat illnesses to over-the-counter remedies and substances used recreationally.
Here's a breakdown of key aspects related to drugs:
Definitions:
* Pharmacological Definition: A chemical substance of known structure that produces a biological effect in a living organism.
* Pharmaceutical Definition (Medication or Medicine): A chemical substance used to treat, cure, prevent, or diagnose a disease or to promote well-being.
* Drugs exert their effects by interacting at a molecular level with specific target components in the body, often cells.
* These targets can include:
* Receptors: Proteins on the surface or inside cells that bind to drugs, initiating a cellular response.
* Enzymes: Proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions; drugs can either inhibit or activate enzymes.
* DNA: Some drugs can directly interact with DNA, affecting genetic processes.
* Membrane Lipids: In some cases, drugs can interact with the lipid components of cell membranes.
Routes of Administration:
Drugs can be introduced into the body in various ways, including:
* Oral: Swallowing tablets, capsules, or liquids (absorption through the gastrointestinal tract).
* Injection: Administering the drug directly into a vein (intravenous), muscle (intramuscular), or under the skin (subcutaneous) for rapid absorption.
* Inhalation: Breathing in gases or aerosols (absorption through the lungs).
* Topical: Applying creams, ointments, or patches to the skin (absorption through the skin).
* Sublingual: Placing a tablet under the tongue to dissolve (absorption through the mucous membrane).
Classification of Drugs:
Drugs are often classified based on various factors:
* Mechanism of Action: How they work at a molecular level (e.g., beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors).
* Chemical Structure: Their chemical composition (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids).
* Drug Class: Groups of related drugs with similar characteristics. * Legal Status: Prescription drugs vs. over-the-counter (OTC) drugs vs. controlled substances (illegal or highly regulated drugs). * Psychoactive Effects: Drugs that affect the central nervous system, altering perception, mood, or consciousness (e.g., stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens). * Pharmacokinetics: Describes the "fate of drugs in the body" and involves four main processes: * Absorption: How the drug gets into the bloodstream. * Distribution: Where the drug goes in the body.Drug Effects:Drugs can produce a range of effects, including: * Therapeutic Effects: The intended beneficial effects of the drug in treating a disease or condition. * Side Effects (Adverse Effects): Unintended and sometimes harmful effects that can occur at normal doses. * Toxic Effects: Harmful effects that occur at high doses or due to prolonged use. * Drug Interactions: When the effects of one drug are altered by the presence of another drug, food, or other substances.Important Considerations:
* Dosage: The amount of drug to be administered, which is crucial for achieving the desired therapeutic effect while minimizing side effects. * Efficacy: The ability of a drug to produce the desired therapeutic effect. * Safety: The likelihood of a drug causing adverse effects. * Variability in Response: Individuals can respond differently to the same drug due to factors like genetics, age, weight, and other medical conditions. * Prescription Information (Package Insert): Provided by the manufacturer and contains comprehensive details about the drug. * Pharmacist: A healthcare professional who can provide information about medications. * Physician: The prescribing doctor can explain the specific details and reasons for using a particular drug.
* Regulatory Agencies: Like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, which provide information on approved drugs.