Introduction Levocetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that is used to treat symptoms associated with chronic allergic rhinitis and uncomplicated cases of chronic idiopathic urticaria. It is the R enantiomer of cetirizine and has a greater affinity for the histamine H1 receptor than cetirizine. Levocetirizine was granted FDA approval in 19951. Mechanism of Action Levocetirizine is an…
Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine widely used for its efficacy in treating various allergic reactions, insomnia, and motion sickness. Mechanism of Action Diphenhydramine primarily functions by antagonizing the H1 (histamine 1) receptor, though it exhibits other mechanisms of action as well. The H1 receptor is found in numerous body tissues, including respiratory smooth muscles, vascular…
Introduction Prostaglandin analogues are a class of drugs that bind to a prostaglandin receptor1. They have revolutionized the management of glaucoma, with their intraocular pressure (IOP) reducing efficacy combined with few systemic side effects and once a day dosing2. Mechanism of Action In Glaucoma Treatment: Prostaglandin analogues work by enhancing uveoscleral outflow of aqueous humour. They may…
The pharmacology of thyroid drugs encompasses a range of medications used to treat disorders of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland secretes two types of hormones: iodine-containing amino acids (thyroxine [T4] and triiodothyronine [T3]) and a peptide (calcitonin). T4 and T3 have broad effects on growth, development, and metabolism, while calcitonin is involved in calcium…
Tocolytic agents are medications used to suppress premature labor by inhibiting uterine contractions. Their primary goal is to delay delivery long enough to allow for the administration of antenatal corticosteroids to accelerate fetal lung maturity and to transfer the mother to a facility equipped for premature births. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the…
Histamine, a pivotal mediator in various physiological and pathological processes, is synthesized from the amino acid L-histidine. This transformation is facilitated by the enzyme histidine decarboxylase. Histamine’s diverse roles in the body are mediated through its interaction with four types of G-protein-coupled receptors: H1, H2, H3, and H4, each distinct in their distribution and function…
Succinylcholine, also known as suxamethonium, is a short-acting depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent employed chiefly to facilitate rapid endotracheal intubation and to provide skeletal muscle relaxation during surgical procedures or mechanical ventilation1, 2, 3. Here’s a detailed overview of its pharmacology: Classification Succinylcholine is classified as a depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent (NMBA), listed on the World…
Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a vital hormone and neurotransmitter released by the adrenal medulla, primarily in response to stressful scenarios. Its crucial role in the “fight-or-flight” response prepares the body to confront or flee from potential threats. Below is an in-depth exploration of the pharmacology of adrenaline: Mechanism of Action Adrenaline is an…
Autacoids, also known as autocoids, are biological factors resembling local hormones. They are produced, act, and are metabolized locally within the body, influencing activities of various tissues such as smooth muscles, glands, nerves, platelets, and more (1). Notable autacoids include eicosanoids, angiotensin, neurotensin, nitric oxide, kinins, histamine, serotonin, endothelins, and palmitoylethanolamide. Autacoids are classified into…
Introduction Histamine is a biogenic amine found in many tissues, including mast cells, basophils, lymphocytes, neurons, and gastric enterochromaffin-like cells. It is an autacoid, a molecule secreted locally to increase or decrease the activity of nearby cells. Histamine is a major mediator of allergic and inflammatory processes and also has significant roles in the regulation…