Pharmacology PTRI – Comprehensive Reviewer
I. Core Pharmacological Principles
Pharmacokinetics
- Drug Absorption: Factors affecting absorption include the route of administration. Oral drugs may
have reduced bioavailability due to first-pass metabolism, while IV drugs are 100% bioavailable.
- Drug Distribution: Influenced by blood flow, protein binding, and tissue permeability. Lipid-soluble
drugs often cross cell membranes more easily.
- Drug Metabolism: Mainly occurs in the liver via the CYP450 enzyme system. Inhibitors of this
system may cause drug accumulation and hepatotoxicity.
- Drug Excretion: Primarily through the kidneys via urine. Renal function is crucial in determining
drug clearance.
Pharmacodynamics
- Mechanism of Action: Describes how drugs affect the body, often by interacting with receptors,
enzymes, or ion channels.
- Half-life: The time it takes for the drug’s concentration to decrease by half. Important for
determining dosing schedules and achieving steady state.
Calculations & Dosing
- Practice converting units (e.g., mg to mL), calculating IV drip rates, and interpreting dosing
abbreviations (e.g., BID, TID, PRN).
II. Specific Drug Classes and Conditions
Antimicrobials
- Antibiotics: Classifications include penicillins, cephalosporins, and fluoroquinolones. Mechanisms
include inhibition of cell wall synthesis and protein synthesis.
- Antifungals: Act on fungal CYP450. Common drugs like ketoconazole may cause liver toxicity.
- Antivirals: Include reverse transcriptase inhibitors for HIV. Mechanisms target viral replication.
- Antiparasitics: Treat protozoal and helminthic infections. Transmission often fecal-oral.
Central Nervous System (CNS) Drugs
- Antipsychotics: Affect dopamine. Side effects include extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive
dyskinesia.
- Benzodiazepines: Used for anxiety and seizures. Enhance GABA activity, producing calming
effects.
Cancer & Immunosuppressants
- Chemotherapy: Common effects include hair loss, leukopenia, and nausea. Extravasation
requires prompt intervention.
Pain Medications
- NSAIDs: Risk of GI irritation and bleeding.
- Acetaminophen: Overdose may cause hepatotoxicity due to liver metabolism.
Vaccines & Immunity
- Active immunity involves body-generated antibodies. Passive immunity involves receiving
ready-made antibodies. Vaccines stimulate active immunity.
III. Nursing Practice and Patient Safety
Medication Administration
- Always follow the 10 Rights: right patient, drug, dose, route, time, documentation, reason,
response, education, and evaluation.
- Know emergency interventions for allergic reactions and extravasation.
Patient Education
- Inform patients about drug use, side effects, and administration. Promote infection control (e.g.,
handwashing, hygiene).
Patient Assessment & Monitoring
- Regularly check lab results and vitals. Monitor for therapeutic effects and adverse reactions.
Report serious symptoms to physicians promptly.