Category: Pharmacology

Introduction / Overview Myocardial infarction (MI) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Rapid pharmacologic intervention is essential to limit myocardial damage, preserve ventricular function, and reduce long‑term adverse outcomes. Contemporary therapeutic strategies involve reperfusion, antithrombotic, anti‑ischemic, and neurohumoral modulation. A systematic understanding of drug mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, and safety profiles is indispensable for…

Introduction / Overview Angina pectoris remains a frequent manifestation of coronary artery disease, exerting a substantial burden on patient quality of life and healthcare systems worldwide. Antianginal pharmacotherapy is central to symptom control, reduction of ischemic episodes, and prevention of adverse cardiovascular events. A comprehensive understanding of the pharmacological principles guiding antianginal drug selection, dosing,…

Introduction/Overview Vasodilators constitute a pivotal class of therapeutics that modulate vascular tone through diverse pharmacodynamic pathways. Their clinical relevance spans management of hypertension, heart failure, ischemic disorders, and various vascular pathologies. A comprehensive understanding of their classification, mechanisms, and pharmacokinetic behavior is essential for optimizing therapeutic regimens and anticipating adverse events. The following monograph aims…

Introduction / Overview Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) constitute a pivotal class of antihypertensive and antianginal agents that modulate intracellular calcium dynamics within excitable tissues. Their therapeutic impact extends beyond cardiovascular indications, influencing vascular tone, cardiac conduction, and smooth muscle relaxation. Understanding the pharmacological nuances of CCBs assists clinicians and pharmacists in optimizing therapeutic regimens, anticipating…

Introduction/Overview The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a central role in the regulation of arterial pressure, electrolyte balance, and cardiovascular homeostasis. Modulation of this pathway has become a cornerstone of therapy for hypertension, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and other related disorders. The therapeutic agents that target RAAS encompass a diverse range of pharmacologic classes, including…

Introduction and Overview Drugs of abuse encompass a broad spectrum of psychoactive substances that are frequently misused, leading to significant morbidity, mortality, and socioeconomic burden. Understanding their pharmacologic properties is essential for clinicians involved in prevention, acute management, and long‑term care of individuals with substance use disorders. The pharmacologic framework of these agents informs evidence‑based…

Introduction / Overview Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and nootropics constitute a diverse group of agents that modulate neuronal activity to enhance alertness, cognition, or mood. Their clinical relevance spans the treatment of attention‑deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, fatigue, and various neuropsychiatric conditions, while off‑label use for academic enhancement or recreational purposes remains widespread. A comprehensive…

Introduction/Overview Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represents the most common form of dementia, characterized by progressive cognitive decline, memory impairment, and functional loss. The therapeutic landscape has expanded over recent decades, encompassing symptomatic agents and disease-modifying treatments. Understanding the pharmacological principles that govern these agents is essential for clinicians, pharmacists, and researchers who manage or study AD…

Introduction / Overview Parkinsonism encompasses a group of movement disorders characterized by bradykinesia, rigidity, tremor, and postural instability. While Parkinson disease (PD) represents the most common neurodegenerative form, other entities such as drug‑induced parkinsonism, multiple system atrophy, and progressive supranuclear palsy display overlapping motor manifestations. Pharmacologic interventions aim to restore dopaminergic tone, modulate neurotransmitter systems,…

Introduction / Overview Opioid analgesics represent a cornerstone of pain management across acute and chronic settings. Their therapeutic impact, balanced against a spectrum of adverse effects and potential for dependence, necessitates a nuanced understanding of their pharmacologic profile by both clinicians and pharmacists. The clinical relevance of opioid agents is underscored by their widespread use…