I. Basic Concepts
Pharmacokinetics
Define absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
Explain the first-pass effect.
Differentiate between zero-order and first-order kinetics.
Understand concepts like half-life, bioavailability, and clearance.
Calculate drug doses using volume of distribution (Vd).
Pharmacodynamics
Define terms: agonist, antagonist, partial agonist, inverse agonist.
Explain the dose-response curve (EC50, ED50, LD50).
Differentiate between potency and efficacy.
Describe receptor types (e.g., G-protein coupled, ion channels).
Drug Interactions
Describe types of drug interactions (synergism, antagonism, potentiation).
Discuss the role of cytochrome P450 enzymes.
Explain pharmacogenomics and its importance in drug therapy.
II. Autonomic Pharmacology
Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic Nervous System
List major neurotransmitters and receptors (adrenergic and cholinergic).
Differentiate between alpha, beta, muscarinic, and nicotinic receptors.
Drugs Affecting the ANS
Adrenergic agonists and antagonists: Indications, side effects, examples.
Cholinergic agonists and antagonists: Mechanism, uses, and examples.