Abstract This chapter presents a concise description of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) with a focus on clinical elements related to anesthesiology. Beginning with a review of the anatomic divisions…

Abstract Recent advances in molecular pharmacology and neuroscience have led to a greater understanding of how anesthetic chemicals can alter the function of the nervous system. Anesthesia through intravenous agents…

Abstract In the 16th century, Paracelsus recognised that any medicinal substance has the potential to do harm, defining the dose as the determinant of whether the substance is a remedy…

Abstract Modern balanced anesthesia consists of the use of a number of drugs to achieve the desired clinical endpoints, such as no awareness, no movement, muscle relaxation, control of blood…

Abstract Anesthesiologists are frequently asked to care for patients at the extremes of age and size. These patient groups have unique features that require special consideration when formulating an anesthetic…

Abstract This chapter presents a review of modern pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic concepts that comprise the scientific foundation of rational drug selection and administration of intravenous anesthetics. Keywords intravenous anesthetics, pharmacokinetics,…

Abstract Understanding the basic principles of pharmacology is fundamental to the practice of medicine in general, but it is perhaps most relevant to the practice of anesthesiology. It is now…

Abstract Biotransformation is an ancient and vital process that governs a drug’s pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. The enzymes and transporters that control each step in the metabolic pathway are highly polymorphic….