AUTONOMIC DRUGS Meaning and
Definition
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Autonomic drugs, also known as autonomic nervous system drugs, are medications that exert their effects on the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is responsible for regulating various involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and breathing. It consists of two branches, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which work in balance to maintain homeostasis in the body.
Autonomic drugs can be further categorized into two types: sympathomimetics (agents that mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system) and sympatholytics (agents that suppress or inhibit the effects of the sympathetic nervous system). Sympathomimetic drugs stimulate the adrenergic receptors, causing an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and bronchial dilation. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as asthma, hypotension, and shock.
Conversely, sympatholytic drugs block the adrenergic receptors, leading to decreased heart rate, blood pressure, and smooth muscle constriction. They are utilized to treat conditions like hypertension, glaucoma, and arrhythmias.
Parasympathomimetic drugs, also known as cholinergic agonists, stimulate the effects of the parasympathetic nervous system. They increase gastrointestinal motility, salivation, and bladder contraction. These drugs are frequently employed to manage conditions such as urinary retention or gastrointestinal disorders.
Understanding autonomic drugs is crucial as they play a pivotal role in pharmacological interventions aimed at controlling various ANS-related disorders. Despite their effectiveness, the use of autonomic drugs requires careful monitoring and medical supervision due to potential side effects and interactions that can occur.
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Etymology of AUTONOMIC DRUGS
The word "autonomic" in the term "autonomic drugs" comes from the Greek word "autonomos", which is a combination of "auto" meaning "self" and "nomos" meaning "law" or "rule". It was first used in English in the mid-19th century to describe the involuntary or automatic functions controlled by the autonomic nervous system.
The term "autonomic drugs" refers to medications that specifically target and modulate the activity of the autonomic nervous system. These drugs are used to affect bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and respiratory rate, which are regulated by the autonomic nervous system.
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