Introduction / Overview Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, remains a public health challenge in many tropical and subtropical regions. The bacterial pathogen Mycobacterium leprae is unique in its slow replication and predilection for peripheral nerves and skin. Chemotherapeutic agents constitute the cornerstone of curative therapy, with multidrug regimens halting disease progression and preventing transmission….
Introduction/Overview Mycobacterium tuberculosis remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in low‑ and middle‑income regions. Effective antitubercular therapy is essential for curative treatment and for preventing the emergence of drug‑resistant strains. This chapter provides a detailed examination of the pharmacological properties of antitubercular agents, with an emphasis on first‑line drugs and their…
Introduction/Overview DNA and RNA synthesis inhibitors constitute a pivotal class of antitumor antibiotics that disrupt nucleic acid metabolism, thereby impeding cellular proliferation. Their therapeutic utility extends across a spectrum of malignancies, from solid tumors to hematologic cancers, and they are often employed in combination regimens to enhance efficacy and mitigate resistance. Understanding the nuanced pharmacology…
Introduction / Overview Protein synthesis inhibitors comprise a broad class of antimicrobial agents that impede bacterial translation by targeting ribosomal subunits. Their selective action on prokaryotic ribosomes underlies their therapeutic utility while generally sparing eukaryotic cells. Clinically, these antibiotics are pivotal in the management of respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, sexually transmitted…
Introduction/Overview Cell wall synthesis inhibitors constitute a pivotal class of antibacterial agents routinely employed in the treatment of a broad spectrum of bacterial infections. Their therapeutic success is founded on the essentiality of peptidoglycan synthesis for bacterial viability, a process absent in human cells, thereby affording a favorable therapeutic index. Clinically, these antibiotics are indispensable…
Introduction/Overview Antimicrobial chemotherapy remains a cornerstone of modern medicine, providing essential interventions for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. The rapid emergence of resistance, coupled with the diversity of pathogens and host factors, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the principles guiding antimicrobial selection and use. This chapter…
Introduction/Overview The gastrointestinal tract is a complex system responsible for nutrient absorption, fluid balance, and waste elimination. Dysregulation of bowel habits manifests as constipation or diarrhea, both of which can compromise patient quality of life and may indicate underlying pathology. Pharmacological approaches to these conditions are diverse, ranging from osmotic agents to secretagogues, each with…
Introduction / Overview Gastrointestinal motility disorders encompass a spectrum of conditions ranging from functional constipation to acute and chronic diarrhoea. Management of these disorders frequently relies on pharmacologic agents that either stimulate bowel activity or reduce intestinal secretion. The therapeutic efficacy of these agents is critical in preventing complications such as megacolon, electrolyte imbalance, and…
Introduction/Overview Antiemetic agents constitute a pivotal therapeutic class within gastrointestinal pharmacology, targeting the complex neurochemical pathways that mediate nausea and vomiting. These agents are routinely employed in a variety of clinical settings, ranging from postoperative care and chemotherapy-induced emesis to motion sickness and vestibular disorders. The clinical relevance of antiemetics is underscored by the significant…
Introduction / Overview Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) remains a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder, affecting millions worldwide. The pathogenesis of PUD is multifactorial, involving an imbalance between aggressive factors such as gastric acid secretion, pepsin activity, and mucosal defensive mechanisms. Pharmacologic intervention targets this imbalance, aiming to reduce acid production, protect the mucosa, or eradicate Helicobacter pylori…