Introduction MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, is a psychoactive substance that has gained notoriety for its stimulating and hallucinogenic properties. Originally patented as an appetite suppressant, MDMA is now widely recognized as a recreational drug. This article explores the mechanisms of action, acute effects, and the management of MDMA intoxication. Mechanisms of Action MDMA’s effects … Read more
Introduction Addiction is a complex disease influenced by genetic, environmental, developmental, and social factors. This article explores the role of genetic factors in substance abuse and addiction, along with their implications for perioperative management. Table 1: Factors Influencing Addiction Factors Influence on Addiction Genetic Significant predisposition Environmental Exposure to addictive substances Developmental Vulnerability at different … Read more
Step into the intriguing world of anesthesia, where science and medicine converged in a remarkable journey through the decades. We invite you to explore the evolution of anesthesia from the 1980s onwards, a period of tremendous growth and innovation in this critical field. Picture a timeline where groundbreaking discoveries, challenges, and leaps in technology shaped … Read more
Carcinoid syndrome (CS) is a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with neuroendocrine tumors, primarily originating from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The lungs are the most common site of origin outside the GI tract. Key Points Definition of Carcinoid Syndrome Paraneoplastic syndrome linked to neuroendocrine tumors, often from the GI tract. Primary Substance Released in CS Serotonin plays … Read more
Precurarization is a technique used in anesthesia to reduce the potential adverse effects of succinylcholine. It is achieved by using a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent (NDNMB) to partially block nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) at the motor end plate. This partial blockade competes with acetylcholine (ACh) for binding to nAChRs, reducing the risk of succinylcholine-induced fasciculations … Read more
Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) are vital tools in the field of anesthesia, facilitating muscle relaxation during surgical procedures. A comprehensive understanding of these agents, their metabolic pathways, and potential risks is crucial for anesthesiologists to ensure safe and effective administration. One metabolic process of particular importance is Hofmann’s degradation, also known as Hofmann elimination, which … Read more
Pregnancy induces significant changes in the pharmacokinetics of anesthetic drugs, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of these alterations for safe and effective obstetric anesthesia. These changes influence the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of anesthetic agents, impacting both maternal and fetal outcomes. 1. Absorption and Uptake During pregnancy, alterations in the gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular system … Read more
Introduction to Biomarkers Characteristics of an Ideal Biomarker Characteristic Description High sensitivity with organ specificity Accurate detection of organ-related changes. Immediate release with tissue injury Rapid response to tissue damage. Release proportional to insult The extent of release correlates with the injury. Long half-life for predictiveness Sustained presence for predictive purposes. Rapid decrease in concentration … Read more
Introduction Sugammadex is a unique reversal agent for aminosteroid-induced neuromuscular blockade. Year Milestone 2000s Recognition of the need for a more effective reversal agent for neuromuscular blockade. 2001 Initiation of clinical trials for sugammadex (then known as Org 25969). 2008 Approval for clinical use in Europe and Australia; marketed as Bridion by Merck & Co. … Read more
Introduction Ketamine is a versatile medication with a fascinating history, complex pharmacology, and a wide range of clinical applications. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of ketamine, including its history, structure-activity relationship, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, clinical uses, and potential side effects. History of Ketamine Year of Discovery Inventors Initial Use … Read more
