Introduction / Overview Antihistamines constitute a pivotal class of therapeutics widely employed in the management of allergic disorders and various other clinical conditions. Their relevance extends from routine outpatient care to specialized inpatient settings, underscoring the necessity for a thorough understanding of their pharmacological profiles among medical and pharmacy trainees. The following learning objectives may…
Introduction/Overview Gout is a metabolic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of acute arthritis precipitated by monosodium urate crystal deposition within joints and periarticular tissues. The pathophysiology hinges on hyperuricosuria and impaired renal excretion of urate, culminating in serum urate concentrations that exceed the solubility threshold. Chronic hyperuricemia predisposes individuals to tophi formation and joint destruction,…
Introduction/Overview Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by persistent synovial inflammation, progressive joint destruction, and extra‑articular manifestations. The therapeutic goal is to halt disease progression, achieve remission or low disease activity, and preserve functional status. Disease‑modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are the cornerstone of RA management, acting through a variety of immunomodulatory…
Introduction / Overview Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) constitute a broad class of medications that are widely employed to mitigate pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. Because of their extensive use across primary, secondary, and tertiary care settings, a comprehensive understanding of NSAID pharmacology is essential for both clinicians and pharmacists. This monograph aims to provide…
Introduction/Overview Hematopoietic growth factors constitute a class of biologically active proteins that regulate the proliferation, differentiation, and survival of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. Their therapeutic exploitation has revolutionized the management of various hematologic and non‑hematologic conditions that involve impaired blood cell production or recovery after cytotoxic therapies. The clinical relevance of these agents is…
Introduction/Overview Hematinics encompass a group of essential nutrients that are critical for erythropoiesis, DNA synthesis, and oxygen transport. Among them, iron, vitamin B12 (cobalamin), and folic acid (vitamin B9) play pivotal roles in maintaining normal red blood cell production and preventing megaloblastic and microcytic anemias. The clinical relevance of these agents is underscored by their…
Introduction and Overview Fibrinolytic and antifibrinolytic agents constitute two distinct pharmacologic families that modulate the balance between clot formation and dissolution. Fibrinolytics, also known as thrombolytics, facilitate the breakdown of fibrin clots, whereas antifibrinolytics inhibit fibrinolysis, thereby stabilizing existing thrombi. Both classes play pivotal roles in the management of acute ischemic events, surgical bleeding, trauma,…
Introduction and Overview Platelet aggregation represents a pivotal component of primary hemostasis, yet aberrant platelet activation contributes to arterial thrombosis and ischemic events. Antiplatelet agents, therefore, occupy a central role in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, as well as in perioperative management and certain therapeutic indications beyond cardiology. The clinical relevance of…
Introduction / Overview Brief Introduction Hypolipidemic drugs, also referred to as lipid‑lowering agents, constitute a pivotal component of cardiovascular risk reduction strategies. These agents target dyslipidemia, a condition characterized by abnormal concentrations of plasma lipids, notably low‑density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‑C), triglycerides (TG), and high‑density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‑C). The therapeutic objective is to attenuate atherosclerotic progression…
Introduction/Overview Cardiac arrhythmias represent a diverse spectrum of electrophysiological disturbances that can compromise hemodynamic stability and increase morbidity and mortality. Antiarrhythmic drugs are a cornerstone of modern cardiac care, providing both acute resuscitation and long‑term rhythm control. Their utilization requires a nuanced understanding of pharmacological principles, as therapeutic efficacy is frequently balanced against potential for…