Prototype drug

Prototype drug is a term used in pharmacology to describe a drug that is representative of a particular drug class. It is the first drug of its kind that is discovered and used as a model for other drugs that are chemically similar but may have slightly different pharmacological effects.

Overview

A prototype drug is typically the first drug discovered in a new class of drugs. It serves as the standard by which all subsequent drugs in that class are compared. The prototype drug is often the most widely studied and understood drug in its class, and it is used as a reference point for the development of new drugs.

Examples

Some examples of prototype drugs include penicillin in the class of beta-lactam antibiotics, morphine in the class of opioid analgesics, and digoxin in the class of cardiac glycosides. These drugs have been extensively studied and their pharmacological properties are well understood, making them ideal prototypes for their respective classes.

Importance

The concept of a prototype drug is important in pharmacology and drug development. By studying the prototype drug, researchers can gain a better understanding of the pharmacological properties and therapeutic uses of the entire class of drugs. This can help in the development of new drugs and in the prediction of potential side effects or drug interactions.

See also

• Drug discovery
• Drug development
• Pharmacodynamics
• Pharmacokinetics