Physical Therapy uses Physical means and agents to habilitate and rehabilitate patients/clients.Drug and medication do not form part of physical therapy.But it will be incorrect to claim that physical therapy operates 100% with just physical means.
In chest, neuro, cardio-pulmonary etc. medications are used to suppliment the intrevention.This essay attempts to address those drugs that are frequently encountered by the physical therapists in their daily practice.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Terminology (Key words)
3. Drug Administration & Absorption (Route)
4. Brief Discussion of Drug Groups, Actions and Effects
4.1 Respiratory System [Mucolytics, Antitussive, Stimulants and Asthma drugs]
4.2 Drugs in Rheumatic diseases
4.3 Drugs in Cancer (Chemo)
4.4 Drugs in Pain Relief (Analgesics)
Target and Research Focus
The primary goal of this assignment is to provide a fundamental understanding of pharmaceutical agents frequently encountered within physical therapy practice, clarifying how these medications interact with and complement physical interventions. The work seeks to bridge the gap between physical medicine and pharmacology by exploring how specific drug groups impact patients undergoing rehabilitation.
- Fundamentals of drug administration and absorption routes in clinical settings.
- Categorization of pharmaceutical agents relevant to physical therapy (respiratory, rheumatic, cancer, and analgesic drugs).
- Mechanisms of action for mucolytics, antitussives, and respiratory stimulants.
- Clinical implications of pain management and seizure control for patient mobility and rehabilitation.
Excerpt from the Book
DRUG ADMINISTRATION & ABSORPTION (Route):
For a drug to perform its intended therapeutic tasks, it must at first place Administered and Absorbed. From there is carried or transported to the tissues where it is desired to act, but one should note a drug taken orally (mouth) to the gastro-intestine has to go via the liver (at times referred to as ‘body laboratory’) and from there then only to the tissues. These drugs can be in the form of Solution, or Solid (tablets & capsules) or in Suspension.
As I have just mentioned in the above paragraph, most of these drugs that are absorbed from the gastro-intestine tract, (given as solid, suspension or solution), their rate of absorption depends to a big extent on the nature of the drug itself.
A drug that is in a liquid state will absorb relatively faster than tablets or capsule. Tablets and Capsules are intended for a slow absorption. It takes relatively a longer period for a tablet which it’s hard in form or a capsule that has relatively hard protection cover to disintegrate or rather dissolved in the gastro-intestinal tract; hence therefore the desired slow absorption in this way is acquired.
Another route from where a drug can be absorbed is from the Buccal-Cavity. Via this route the absorption of the drug is very rapid. To be more exactly, here the sub-lingual (under-the-tongue) advantage is utilized to drugs (tablets) that quickly dissolve beneath the tongue the case in point here is a drug that goes by a generic name; glyceryl trinitrate that is widely prescribed for a fast relief of angina pain.
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: Defines the role of physical therapy in rehabilitation and establishes the necessity of understanding pharmaceutical agents that complement physical treatment modalities.
2. Terminology (Key words): Provides essential definitions for core concepts including drugs, pharmacology, and therapeutics to ensure foundational knowledge for the reader.
3. Drug Administration & Absorption (Route): Explains the processes of how drugs are delivered into the body and the varying factors influencing their absorption rates through different routes.
4. Brief Discussion of Drug Groups, Actions and Effects: Categorizes and examines specific drug classes relevant to physical therapy, including respiratory, rheumatic, oncological, and analgesic treatments.
Keywords
Pharmacotherapeutics, Physical Therapy, Drug Administration, Absorption, Respiratory System, Mucolytics, Antitussives, Rheumatic Diseases, Chemotherapy, Analgesics, Pharmacology, Therapeutics, Rehabilitation, Drug Groups, Clinical Practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this assignment?
The work focuses on the intersection of pharmacology and physical therapy, identifying common drugs that therapists encounter and how their effects influence the rehabilitation process.
Which thematic areas are covered in this paper?
The paper covers basic pharmacological principles, routes of drug administration, and detailed discussions on respiratory drugs, rheumatic medications, cancer treatments, and analgesics.
What is the primary objective of the author?
The objective is to shed light on pharmaceutical agents that complement physical therapy, as these drugs significantly affect a patient's capacity to engage in physical rehabilitation exercises.
Which scientific method is utilized here?
The assignment uses a descriptive and analytical review method, synthesizing pharmacological literature to explain drug classifications and their implications for clinical physiotherapy.
What topics are discussed in the main body?
The main body examines drug administration routes (oral, sub-lingual, rectal, inhalation, injection) and specific therapeutic drug groups used for respiratory, rheumatic, seizure, and pain management conditions.
Which keywords characterize this work?
Key terms include pharmacotherapeutics, physical therapy, drug administration, mucolytics, and analgesics.
How does the sub-lingual route of drug administration differ from oral intake?
The sub-lingual route allows for very rapid absorption because the drug dissolves directly beneath the tongue, bypassing the gastro-intestinal tract and the initial metabolism by the liver.
Why are mucolytics particularly important for a physical therapist?
Mucolytics are vital for chest or pulmonary physical therapy because they break down sputum proteins, making it easier for the therapist to expel secretions through techniques like percussion or postural drainage.
What role do analgesics play in a hospice setting for patients undergoing physiotherapy?
In hospice care, analgesics are essential for pain relief; therapists must monitor the efficacy of these drugs and consult physicians to adjust dosages as pain levels fluctuate.
- Quote paper
- Marine Kimaro (Author), 2010, Pharmacotherapeutics, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/156513
