Posted: September 19th, 2016

Just describe whether enzyme inhibition occurs or whether the drug is an antagonist/agonist of a receptor (blocker or activator/mimic of natural ligand)

Part 2
In part 2 you should explain the science to the patient in laymen’s terms (ie in language that a patient would understand). You should include:
• How the medication works:
That is, a summary of the mode of action in laymen’s terms
There is no need for chemical mechanisms here. Just describe whether enzyme inhibition occurs or whether the drug is an antagonist/agonist of a receptor (blocker or activator/mimic of natural ligand). If the actual mechanism is unclear, state what the current theory is eg: “the drug is thought to have a direct effect on the cell membrane”. Or “the drug inhibits an enzyme which leads to lower blood pressure, essentially reducing the action of this enzyme reduces the production of a chemical that causes vessel constriction. Vessel constriction leads to higher blood pressure in the same way that squeezing a water bottle increases pressure. so taking this medicine enables your blood vessels to remain relaxed or dilated.”
• How to use it (eg: is it oral or topical, is it a mouthwash or do they ingest it?).

You will not be marked on dosage information, but you should understand why it is formulated the way it is, and mention this in Part 1. You should present this part as though you are speaking to the patient.