18. Pharmacology - Students Free Notes

Explain why overdosing on sedatives can be dangerous.

Sedatives, such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates, depress the central nervous system, which can lead to respiratory depression, unconsciousness, or even death when taken in excessive amounts. Overdosing can cause the body to slow down too much, leading to dangerous drops in heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure, ultimately resulting in life-threatening conditions. Related Questions: What … Read more

How do hallucinogens affect the human brain?

Hallucinogens, such as LSD, psilocybin (magic mushrooms), and DMT, alter perception, mood, and cognitive processes. They primarily affect serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to visual and auditory hallucinations, altered sense of time, and changes in thought patterns. Prolonged use can cause psychological issues such as anxiety or paranoia. Related Questions: What are the effects … Read more

What is the role of antiseptics in disease prevention?

Antiseptics are chemicals used to prevent infection by killing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms on living tissues, such as skin or mucous membranes. They are commonly used for cleaning wounds, cuts, and surgical sites to reduce the risk of infection. Common antiseptics include alcohol, iodine, and chlorhexidine. Related Questions: What are the effects of … Read more

Differentiate between stimulants and depressants.

Stimulants: These are substances that increase activity in the central nervous system, leading to heightened alertness, energy, and euphoria. Examples include caffeine, cocaine, and methamphetamine. They can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration. Depressants: These substances slow down brain activity, leading to relaxation, drowsiness, or sedation. Examples include alcohol, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates. They can … Read more

How do antibiotics work against bacterial infections?

Antibiotics work by targeting specific features of bacteria that are essential for their survival or reproduction. They can kill bacteria directly or inhibit their growth. Common mechanisms include disrupting the bacterial cell wall (e.g., penicillin), blocking protein synthesis (e.g., tetracycline), or interfering with DNA replication (e.g., quinolones). Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. Related Questions: … Read more

Give a detailed account of antibiotics.

Antibiotics:  Definition: Antibiotics are a class of drugs used to treat infections caused by bacteria. They either kill bacteria or inhibit their growth and reproduction. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or influenza. Discovery: The first antibiotic, penicillin, was discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928. This discovery revolutionized medicine … Read more

What are addictive drugs? Write their types and effects. What are the problems of drug addiction?

Addictive drugs are substances that can lead to physical or psychological dependence, causing individuals to crave and use them despite harmful consequences. These substances often affect the brain’s reward system by releasing chemicals that create feelings of euphoria or pleasure, leading to repeated use and, over time, dependence. Types of Addictive Drugs: Stimulants: Examples: Cocaine, … Read more

Write the principal usage of painkillers, antibiotics, vaccines, and sedatives.

Principal Usage of Common Medications Painkillers (Analgesics): Principal Usage: Painkillers are used to relieve pain caused by a variety of conditions, such as injuries, surgeries, chronic pain, or illnesses. They can be classified into: Non-prescription (Over-the-counter): These include acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), which help reduce pain and inflammation. … Read more

What are drugs? What are the sources of drugs?

Drugs are chemical substances that, when consumed or administered, can alter the function of the body, either by enhancing or inhibiting biological processes. They can have therapeutic effects (such as treating or preventing diseases) or cause alterations in mood, perception, and consciousness. Drugs can be classified based on their effects, such as medicinal drugs (used … Read more

Complete the table below:

Column-A (Name) Column-B (Description) Marijuana Addictive drug and hallucinogen Aspirin painkiller Cephalosporins Antibiotic Diazepam sedative Dettol Antiseptic Phenyl Disinfectant Morphine Narcotic painkiller Related Questions: What are the effects of marijuana? What is vaccination? Why are the following scientists famous? What are the symptoms of addiction? Name the four main groups of antibiotics. How does resistance … Read more