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 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…
Introduction Mania is a mood state characterised by an expansive or irritable mood, increased energy and activity, racing thoughts, pressured speech, decreased need for sleep, and reckless or impulsive behaviours that can have painful consequences. Mania is the defining feature of bipolar I disorder and also occurs in bipolar II disorder and cyclothymic disorder (American…
Introduction The ethical framework provided by the 3R principles — replace, reduce, and refine — is a cornerstone of current scientific practice in animal research worldwide. Despite growing awareness and adoption of these principles, significant room for improvement remains, particularly in the aspect of reduction. The paper by S. Helene Richter presents an innovative approach…
Introduction Overview of Climate Change Tipping Points In their comprehensive study, Lenton, T.M., Abrams, J.F., Bartsch, A. et al. explore the escalating risk of climate tipping points amid ongoing climate change. They articulate the necessity for advanced methods to anticipate and understand these critical junctures in the Earth’s system, which can lead to abrupt and irreversible…
Introduction Alkylating agents are a class of drugs that have been used in the treatment of cancer for many years. They are part of a broader category of anticancer drugs designed to interfere with the growth and division of cancer cells. What are Alkylating Agents? Alkylating agents are compounds that work by adding an alkyl…
Introduction Antiretroviral drugs have revolutionised the treatment of HIV, turning what was once a fatal diagnosis into a manageable chronic condition. These medications are central to HIV treatment and management, working by inhibiting the replication of the virus in the body, thereby reducing the viral load and bolstering the immune system. What are Antiretroviral Drugs?…