Introduction Skeletal muscle relaxants are a heterogeneous group of medications used to treat a variety of conditions characterised by muscle spasms, spasticity, and pain. These drugs act through various mechanisms to reduce muscle tone and alleviate symptoms, thereby improving patient comfort and function. This chapter will provide an in-depth discussion of the pharmacology of skeletal muscle relaxants, including their classification, mechanisms…
Introduction The Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) is a complex and intricate hormonal system that plays a pivotal role in regulating blood pressure, fluid balance, and electrolyte homeostasis within the body. This system involves the coordinated actions of several organs, including the kidneys, liver, lungs, and adrenal glands, and is mediated by a series of hormones and…
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical importance of a well-functioning immune system in protecting against viral infections. While factors like age, underlying health conditions, and genetics play a role in COVID-19 susceptibility and severity, emerging research suggests that diet and nutritional status may also significantly impact outcomes. The field of nutritional immunology explores…
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has posed an unprecedented global health crisis, with far-reaching ethical, legal, and social implications. As nations grappled with the rapid spread of the virus, governments, healthcare systems, and individuals faced complex challenges that tested the boundaries of existing norms and practices. This article explores the ethical dilemmas, legal controversies, and social…
Introduction Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition characterised by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. CKD affects millions of people worldwide and is a major public health concern due to its high prevalence, associated morbidity and mortality, and economic burden on healthcare systems. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste…
Introduction Radiodiagnosis and radiotherapy are two critical applications of radiation in medicine. While radiodiagnosis uses radiation to image the body’s internal structures for diagnostic purposes, radiotherapy employs radiation to treat various diseases, most notably cancer. This chapter delves into the history, principles, techniques, and advancements in these life-saving fields. The Discovery of X-rays and Radioactivity…
Introduction Boerhavia diffusa, commonly known as punarnava, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas (Mishra et al., 2018). It belongs to the family Nyctaginaceae and has been used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Unani for centuries…
Introduction When it comes to delivering medications to the body, there are various routes of drug administration that healthcare professionals can choose from. Each route has its own advantages, disadvantages, and specific applications. Understanding these different routes is essential for optimizing drug therapy and ensuring that patients receive their medications effectively and safely. In this…
Introduction Cough is a protective reflex that helps clear the airways of irritants and secretions. It can be classified as acute (<3 weeks duration) or chronic (>8 weeks).[1] While acute cough is usually self-limiting and resolves on its own, chronic cough can significantly impair quality of life. Pharmacological management is a key component of treating…
Antitussives are a class of medications used to suppress coughing, a common symptom associated with various respiratory conditions. These drugs work by acting on the central nervous system or peripheral receptors to inhibit the cough reflex. This article will discuss the pharmacology of antitussives, including their mechanism of action, therapeutic uses, adverse effects, and considerations…