Therapeutic Index & Window
The therapeutic window indicates the range of drug amounts in the body that bring about the desired therapeutic effects with minimum adverse effects.
Key Components
- Minimum Effective Concentration (MEC): Lowest amount for therapeutic effect
- Maximum Tolerated Concentration (MTC): Highest amount without severe side effects
Memorization Tip
MEC = Minimum for Effect – Think of it as the “minimum effective concentration” needed to see results.
MTC = Maximum Tolerable Concentration – The most you can take without toxic effects.
Aspirin & Penicillin
Aspirin Mechanism
Inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), reducing inflammation, pain, fever, and blood clot formation.
Penicillin Mechanism
Binds to the β-lactam ring on transpeptidase enzyme, preventing bacterial cell wall formation.
Memorization Tip
Aspirin = ACE – Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, anti-Coagulant, anti-thromboxanE
Penicillin = Puncture – Penicillin punctures bacterial cell walls by inhibiting cross-linking
Opioids & Receptors
Opiates interact with opioid receptors in the brain and central nervous system.
Main Receptor Types
- Mu (μ) receptors: Analgesia, respiratory depression, euphoria
- Delta (δ) receptors: Pain relief, mood regulation
- Kappa (κ) receptors: Pain relief, dysphoria, hallucinations
Memorization Tip
MUD – Mu (main effects), Delta (modulation), Kappa (krazy effects)
Interactive Learning
Flashcard: Therapeutic Window
What is the difference between MEC and MTC?
MEC: Minimum Effective Concentration – the lowest drug level needed for therapeutic effect
MTC: Maximum Tolerated Concentration – the highest drug level before toxicity occurs
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Flashcard: Aspirin vs Penicillin
Compare the mechanisms of Aspirin and Penicillin
Aspirin: Inhibits COX enzyme → reduces prostaglandins → decreases inflammation, pain, fever
Penicillin: Inhibits transpeptidase → prevents bacterial cell wall synthesis → bacterial death
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Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
Absorption → Distribution → Metabolism → Excretion
Key Concepts
- Absorption: Drug movement from site of administration to bloodstream
- Distribution: Drug movement from blood to tissues
- Metabolism: Chemical modification of drugs (mainly in liver)
- Excretion: Removal of drugs from the body (mainly via kidneys)
Memorization Tip
All Dogs Must Eat – Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion
Phase I exposes, Phase II disposes – Phase I reactions expose functional groups, Phase II conjugates them for excretion
Antiviral Drugs Challenges
Treating viral infections is challenging because:
- Viruses use host cell machinery
- High mutation rates lead to resistance
- Limited targets compared to bacteria
- Some viruses remain dormant
Memorization Tip
Viruses are VIPs – Viruses Invade and Proliferate in host cells, making them hard to target Specifically