Problem 13 - Chemistry in 30 days

Question

( The Substance which relieve anxiety, reduce mental tension and induce are called: (a) Analgesics (b) Antipyretics (c) Tranquillizer (d) Ana esthetics

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is (c) Tranquillizer.

Step 1: Understand the Definitions

Before choosing the correct answer, let's define each of the options: - **Analgesics**: These are pain relievers that help in reducing pain without causing loss of consciousness. - **Antipyretics**: These are substances used to reduce fever by lowering body temperature. - **Tranquillizers**: These are substances that are used to relieve anxiety, reduce mental tension, and induce calmness. - **Anesthetics**: These are drugs that cause a loss of sensation, particularly of pain, and are often used during surgeries.

Step 2: Identify the Key Characteristics

We need to identify which option describes substances that *relieve anxiety, reduce mental tension, and induce calmness*. These key characteristics are directly associated with "Tranquillizers". Tranquillizers are specifically designed to manage anxiety and tension, helping individuals feel calmer.

Step 3: Choose the Correct Option

Based on the definitions and the characteristics given, the substance that relieves anxiety, reduces mental tension, and induces calmness is **Tranquillizers**. Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

Key Concepts

Analgesics definition

Analgesics are a type of medication specifically formulated to relieve pain. Imagine you have a headache; reaching for an over-the-counter analgesic like ibuprofen can provide relief. These drugs work by interrupting the body's pain signals or by reducing the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause pain.
Analgesics can be divided into two main categories:

• Non-opioid analgesics: Useful for mild to moderate pain, these include medications like acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin. They are a staple of many medicine cabinets.
• Opioid analgesics: These are reserved for more severe pain and include drugs such as morphine and codeine. Unlike non-opioids, they work on the central nervous system by binding to opioid receptors to reduce the sensation of deep pain.

It's important to use analgesics as directed, as misuse can lead to adverse effects, especially with opioid analgesics due to their potential for addiction.

Antipyretics definition

Antipyretics are substances designed to reduce fever. When the body's internal "thermostat" sets the body temperature above its normal range, fever occurs. This serves as the body's natural response to fight infections and illnesses.
However, when a fever becomes uncomfortable, antipyretics can be taken to bring the temperature down. The most common antipyretic is acetaminophen, which is widely used and readily available. Other options include NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin.

• Action mechanism: Antipyretics often act by regulating the body's temperature control system in the brain, particularly on a small organ known as the hypothalamus, which helps to return the body's thermostat to its normal setting. This subsequently causes heat loss through sweating and an increase in blood flow.
• Usage: While lowering fever, they don't cure the underlying cause but rather make the individual more comfortable. It's always advised to follow dosage recommendations, especially in children, to avoid potential side effects.

Anesthetics definition

Anesthetics are a class of drugs used to induce a temporary loss of sensation or awareness, typically during medical procedures. Their primary purpose is to ensure that patients do not feel pain during surgical operations or other intrusive medical interventions.
There are different forms of anesthetics:

• General anesthetics: These induce a state of controlled unconsciousness, affecting the entire body and brain, rendering the patient unaware of the surgery.
• Local anesthetics: These drugs numb a specific area of the body without affecting consciousness. Think of the injection you receive at the dentist to numb your gums.
• Regional anesthetics: Partway between the other two, these anesthetics block pain in a larger area of the body, like during an epidural for childbirth.

Administering anesthetics is a precise science, often managed by an anesthesiologist. The balance between effectiveness and safety is crucial, ensuring the patient is pain-free while minimizing risks.