1. Introduction to Drugs and Medicines
- Drugs are chemical substances used to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases.
- Medicines are drugs that provide therapeutic effects with minimal side effects.
- They interact with biological molecules like enzymes and receptors to produce effects.
- Drugs can be classified based on their function, chemical structure, or target.
2. Analgesics (Painkillers)
- Analgesics are drugs that relieve pain without causing unconsciousness.
- They act on the central nervous system to block pain signals.
- Two main types:
- Non-narcotic analgesics: Mild pain relievers (e.g., aspirin, paracetamol).
- Narcotic analgesics: Strong pain relievers, can be addictive (e.g., morphine, codeine).
- Aspirin also has anti-inflammatory and blood-thinning properties.
3. Antibiotics
- Antibiotics are substances that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria.
- Discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928 (Penicillin).
- Work by targeting bacterial cell walls, protein synthesis, or DNA replication.
- Types of antibiotics:
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics: Effective against a wide range of bacteria (e.g., tetracycline).
- Narrow-spectrum antibiotics: Target specific bacteria (e.g., penicillin).
- Overuse of antibiotics leads to antibiotic resistance, a major global health issue.
4. Antiseptics
- Antiseptics are chemicals applied to living tissues to prevent infection.
- They are used for wound cleaning, surgery, and personal hygiene.
- Common antiseptics:
- Dettol (contains chloroxylenol).
- Hydrogen peroxide (used for wound disinfection).
- Iodine (strong antiseptic for cuts and wounds).
- Boric acid (used in eye washes and ointments).
5. Disinfectants
- Disinfectants are chemical agents that kill or inhibit microorganisms on non-living surfaces.
- Used in hospitals, homes, and industries to maintain hygiene.
- Stronger than antiseptics but not safe for use on living tissues.
- Examples:
- Bleach (sodium hypochlorite, used for cleaning floors and water purification).
- Phenol (used in hospital disinfectants).
- Formaldehyde (used for sterilization and preservation).
6. Differences Between Antiseptics and Disinfectants
- Antiseptics are used on living tissues, while disinfectants are used on non-living surfaces.
- Disinfectants are generally stronger than antiseptics.
- Some substances, like phenol, can act as both at different concentrations.
7. Importance of Drugs and Medicines
- Help in disease prevention, treatment, and pain management.
- Essential in surgery, infections, and chronic diseases.
- Play a key role in public health and medical advancements.
8. Conclusion
- Drugs and medicines are crucial for maintaining health and treating diseases.
- Proper use of analgesics, antibiotics, antiseptics, and disinfectants is essential.
- Misuse can lead to drug resistance and health complications.