Toxicity following sudden withdrawal of drugs, often referred to as drug withdrawal syndrome, occurs when a person abruptly stops or reduces the dosage of a drug that their body has become physically dependent on. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to severe life-threatening reactions. The mechanisms of withdrawal toxicity … Read more
General Introduction Opium is a complex, resinous substance derived from the dried latex of the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum), a plant native to the Mediterranean region. It has been used for thousands of years for its psychoactive and analgesic properties. The plant is cultivated worldwide for its valuable alkaloids, which have significant medical and recreational … Read more
Definition of Alkaloids Alkaloids are a diverse group of naturally occurring organic compounds that primarily contain basic nitrogen atoms. They are typically derived from plant and animal sources and have significant pharmacological effects on humans and other animals. Alkaloids are known for their wide range of biological activities and are often used in medicine, agriculture, … Read more
Secondary metabolites are organic compounds produced by plants, bacteria, fungi, and animals that are not directly involved in the normal growth, development, or reproduction of the organism. Unlike primary metabolites (such as amino acids, nucleotides, and carbohydrates), which are essential for the basic metabolic processes of life, secondary metabolites often play crucial roles in ecological … Read more
Pharmacological classification of drugs in relation to pharmacognosy categorizes drugs based on their pharmacological effects and mechanisms of action, particularly focusing on bioactive compounds derived from natural sources such as plants, animals, and minerals. This classification system provides insights into the therapeutic uses, pharmacological properties, and biological targets of medicinal substances. Introduction to Pharmacological Classification: … Read more
Definition Emergency drugs are medications that are administered in critical or life-threatening situations to address immediate medical needs. These drugs are crucial in various healthcare settings, including emergency departments, intensive care units, and pre-hospital care, where rapid intervention is essential to stabilize patients and prevent further harm. Categories of Emergency Drugs 1. Cardiac Arrest and … Read more
In a legal and medical context, narcotics traditionally refer to a class of drugs with analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. These drugs are often derived from opium or synthetic analogs and include substances like morphine, codeine, and oxycodone. In this context, narcotics are typically prescribed for the management of moderate to severe pain. The misuse and abuse … Read more
Opioid analgesics, commonly known as opioids, are a class of potent pain-relieving medications derived from or chemically similar to compounds found in the opium poppy plant. These drugs exert their effects by binding to specific receptors, known as opioid receptors, in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral tissues. Opioid analgesics are widely used for … Read more
