Introduction/Overview Insulin and glucagon are pivotal pancreatic hormones that orchestrate glucose homeostasis. Their therapeutic relevance is underscored by the prevalence of diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by dysregulated insulin secretion or action. Glucagon, conversely, serves as a counterregulatory agent, mitigating hypoglycemia and maintaining euglycemia during fasting states. The interplay between these hormones informs…
Introduction/Overview Thyroid hormones are pivotal regulators of metabolic homeostasis, influencing cellular respiration, protein synthesis, and thermogenesis. Dysregulation of thyroid function leads to significant morbidity, necessitating precise pharmacologic intervention. This monograph is intended to provide a detailed, evidence-based synthesis of the pharmacology of endogenous thyroid hormones and the principal antithyroid agents employed in clinical practice. The…
Introduction and Overview The neuroendocrine axis comprising the hypothalamus and pituitary gland orchestrates regulation of numerous physiological processes through secretion of a variety of hormones. These hormones, including corticotropin‑releasing hormone (CRH), thyrotropin‑releasing hormone (TRH), gonadotropin‑releasing hormone (GnRH), growth hormone‑releasing hormone (GHRH), somatostatin, vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone), oxytocin, and others, modulate downstream endocrine organs via complex feedback…
Introduction / Overview Diarrhoea remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in low‑resource settings where dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can rapidly become life‑threatening. In many clinical scenarios, rapid symptomatic relief is essential to improve patient comfort, reduce the risk of complications, and facilitate recovery, especially when the underlying aetiology is not immediately…
Introduction/Overview Laxatives and purgatives constitute a broad group of therapeutic agents that facilitate the evacuation of the gastrointestinal tract. These medications are utilized for a variety of indications, ranging from the management of chronic constipation to the preparation of the colon for diagnostic endoscopic procedures. Their clinical relevance is underscored by the high prevalence of…
Introduction / Overview Prokinetic agents represent a distinct class of medications employed to enhance gastrointestinal motility and alleviate symptoms associated with dysmotility disorders. The clinical relevance of these drugs is underscored by their application in conditions such as gastroparesis, functional dyspepsia, postoperative ileus, and nausea/vomiting syndromes. This monograph aims to provide a systematic and detailed…
Introduction and Overview Histamine H2 receptor antagonists, commonly referred to as H2 blockers, represent a cornerstone of pharmacologic therapy for acid‑related gastrointestinal disorders. These agents competitively inhibit histamine binding at H2 receptors located on gastric parietal cells, thereby attenuating the secretion of hydrochloric acid. The therapeutic significance of H2 antagonists is underscored by their broad…
Introduction and Overview Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) constitute a pivotal class of medications employed in the management of acid‑related gastrointestinal disorders. Their capacity to produce profound, sustained suppression of gastric acid secretion has rendered them indispensable in both acute and chronic therapeutic contexts. The global prevalence of conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer…
Introduction / Overview Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) remains a significant clinical problem worldwide, contributing to morbidity through pain, bleeding, perforation, and gastric outlet obstruction. The therapeutic armamentarium for PUD has evolved from simple antacids to sophisticated acid-suppressive agents that target specific components of gastric acid secretion. Understanding the pharmacology of these agents is essential for…
Introduction and Overview Persistent cough constitutes a frequent presenting symptom in primary and secondary care, often reflecting an underlying respiratory pathology such as infection, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The therapeutic goal of antitussive and expectorant agents is to alleviate cough symptoms, thereby improving patient comfort and potentially reducing complications such as aspiration or…