Question 1: Define the term 'analgesic'.

Answer: A drug that relieves pain without causing loss of consciousness.

Question 2: Explain how non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin reduce pain and inflammation.

Answer: NSAIDs inhibit enzymes (COX enzymes) involved in producing prostaglandins, which mediate pain and inflammation.

Question 3: What is the main difference between a painkiller that targets prostaglandins and one that targets nerve signals?

Answer: Prostaglandin-targeting drugs reduce inflammation and pain at the tissue level, while nerve signal-targeting drugs block pain transmission along nerves.

Question 1: A patient is prescribed 500 mg of ibuprofen every 8 hours. How much ibuprofen does the patient take in 24 hours?

Answer: 1500 mg

Question 2: If the concentration of a painkiller in the bloodstream is measured at 20 μg/mL immediately after ingestion and halves every 4 hours, what will be the concentration after 12 hours?

Answer: 2.5 μg/mL

Question 1: Identify three variables that should be controlled in an experiment testing the pain-relief effectiveness of a new drug.

Answer: Dosage, time of administration, type of pain, age and health status of participants.

Question 2: List two safety precautions that must be considered when testing new painkillers in clinical trials.

Answer: Monitoring for adverse reactions, obtaining informed consent from participants.

Question 1: A study shows that 80% of patients report reduced pain within 30 minutes of taking a particular painkiller. If 200 patients take this drug, how many are expected to experience relief?

Answer: 160 patients

Question 2: In a trial, 150 patients took a painkiller, and 135 reported relief. Calculate the percentage of patients who experienced pain relief.

Answer: 90%

Question 1: Describe how NSAIDs like aspirin work at the molecular level to reduce pain and inflammation. (6 marks)

Answer: NSAIDs inhibit the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins mediate pain, fever, and inflammation. By blocking COX enzymes, NSAIDs decrease prostaglandin production, thereby reducing pain and inflammation.

Question 1: Explain why it is important for doctors to prescribe the correct dosage of painkillers and the potential consequences of overdosing.

Answer: Correct dosage ensures effectiveness and minimises side effects. Overdosing can cause toxicity, organ damage, or severe adverse reactions.

Question 2: Discuss the impact of long-term use of painkillers on the body's immune response and overall health.

Answer: Long-term use can suppress immune responses, lead to dependence, cause organ damage, and increase risk of side effects such as gastrointestinal issues.