ABSTRACT
This chapter details what is required in terms of competencies, skills and knowledge from junior physicians in core medical training in clinical pharmacology. Lithium is a mood-stabilising drug used most commonly prophylactically in bipolar disorder but also as an adjunct in refractory depression. It has a very narrow therapeutic range and a long plasma half-life, being excreted primarily by the kidneys. Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase type V inhibitor used in the treatment of impotence. Sulphonylureas are oral hypoglycaemic drugs used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. They work by increasing pancreatic insulin secretion and hence are only effective if functional B cells are present. Sodium valproate is used in the management of epilepsy and is first-line therapy for generalised seizures. It works by increasing GABA activity. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves the use of a small dose of oestrogen to help alleviate menopausal symptoms.
