Week 5 rapid review 3 project
Rapid Review 3
Select a psychoactive drug that is of pharmacological interest to you, but not one you will review as part of your Critical Review or one that was included in your previous Rapid Reviews. For this paper, you may choose drugs of abuse; however, the paper must focus on the pharmacology of the drug and not on the social or addictive aspects. If you focus on addiction and social impact, your paper will not receive credit.
In addition to the text, research a minimum of three peer-reviewed articles published within the last five years on your selected drug. Prepare a three-page summary of the drug using the PSY630 Rapid Review Example paperas a guide.
In your Rapid Review, analyze and explain the pharmacological aspects of the drug as they relate to the following: neurotransmitters affected, receptors, route of administration, half-life, doses, side effects, drug interactions, contraindications, and other important facets of the drug. Explain these aspects of the drug in terms of the psychiatric disorders indicated for the drug and the issue(s) associated with that use. If there is no accepted therapeutic use for the drug, evaluate and describe the actions of the drug with regard to the abuse process.
The paper:
- Must be three double-spaced pages in length, excluding title page and references page, and it must be formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
- Must include a title page with the following:
- Title of paper
- Your name
- Course name and number
- Your instructor’s name
- Date submitted
- Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.
- Must use at least three peer-reviewed sources in addition to the text.
Solution Preview
Ephedrine
Overview of the Drug
The selected psychoactive drug is ephedrine. It is both a stimulant and a medication. It is mainly used during spinal anesthesia to prevent low blood pressure. Its usefulness is also exhibited in narcolepsy, asthma and obesity. It is a bronchodilator and decongestant which works by constricting blood vessels and reducing swelling in the passages of the nasal region to allow an individual breath more easily. It is classified as an adrenergic which implies that it has a role in central nervous system hence an effect on brain function. It causes elevated catecholamines release and has both beta and alpha adrenergic properties. Overall, it has a short duration of action meaning that its pharmacokinetic processes are fast. It is also known for its pronounced CNS effects when used during spinal anesthesia to prevent low blood pressure (Campbell & Young, 2017).
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