PHAR 100 Study Guide - Final Guide: Rodent, Pralidoxime, Sesquiterpene

• School: Queen's University
• Department: Pharmacology and Toxicology
• Course: PHAR 100
• Professor: Prof.

Document Summary

Indigenous to south america, found in leaves of coca tree. Sigmund freud used cocaine to treat depression and chronic fatigue on himself. Cocaine hydrochloride absorbed through nasal or injected (25mg-100mg) Cocaine base (crack) inhaled (water soluble) (250mg-1gram) Half life of 50 mins (removed by enzymes in liver benzoylegonine is metabolite) Three unique features to cocaine: potent local anesthetic, vasoconstrictor (constricts blood vessels and raises blood pressure, powerful psychostimulant with strong reinforcing effects. Cocaine blocks active reuptake of dopamine and serotonin into presynaptic nerve terminals can develop tolerance and dependence. Synthetic organic compounds (structurally similar to dopamine, epinephrine) Sympathetic stimulants increase synaptic activity of dopamine and norepinephrine transmitter taken up by cell and interferes with vesicular monoamine transporter. End result: increased neurotransmitter in synaptic cleft increased receptor activation increased da and ne-mediated effects. Physical dependence withdrawal syndrome: dysphoria, more sleep, lethargy. Psychological dependence strong compulsion for frequent use. Tolerance develops to euphoric and lethal effects (needs higher doses)