List the various drugs classified as adrenergic agonists or sympathomimetics
The medications that imitate the effects of adrenergic nerve stimulation (or stimulation of the adrenal medulla) are called adrenergic agonists. These molecules, in other words, imitate the effects of norepinephrine and epinephrine. Adrenomimetics and sympathomimetics are terms used to describe these medications.
Classification of adrenergic agonist
Classification is based on the mechanism of action and action on receptors. It includes,
- Direct-acting adrenergic agonist.
- Indirectly acting adrenergic agonist.
- Mixed action
Direct-acting adrenergic agonists: - They are classified into selective and non-selective adrenergic agonists based on their action on a number of receptors.
- Selective receptors act on single receptors and have two classifications such as alpha selective and beta selective.
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- Alpha 1 selective drugs act on alpha one receptors and include phenylephrine, midodrine, and so on.
- Alpha 2 selective drugs act on alpha two receptors. For example Clonidine and brimonidine.
- Beta one selective drugs act on beta one receptors. For example Dobutamine.
- Beta two selective drugs act on beta two receptors. For example Salbutamol.
- Non-selective drug categories act on many receptors or on single receptors such as adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine, and so on.
The indirect action of adrenergic drugs: - It is due to the elevated action of neurotransmitters. For example Epinephrine and norepinephrine.
Mixed action adrenergic agonists: - They may act directly or indirectly on the receptors.
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