Pharmacology · MU Sofia

59. Vitamins– clinical applications.

Covers the classification of vitamins into water-soluble (vitamin C and the B group) and fat-soluble (A, D, E, K) types, then their pharmacodynamic roles such as cofactor functions, antioxidant activity and calcium regulation. It includes a comparison table of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion for the two groups, plus hypervitaminosis effects, drug interactions with warfarin, iron, statins and metformin, and a list of therapeutic uses.

Inside: 10 sections · 5 labelled pictures · 1 table · 10 flashcards · 3 min

Topic 58 of 93 in the MU Sofia syllabus for Pharmacology (Medicine, Year 3). The free AceMed note covers it in 10 sections, about 329 words (3 min of reading), with 10 flashcards.

In this note

  1. Vitamins
  2. Classification
  3. Water-Soluble Vitamins
  4. Fat-Soluble Vitamins
  5. Pharmacodynamics
  6. Pharmacokinetics
  7. Side Effects of Excessive Intake (Hypervitaminosis)
  8. Drug Interactions
  9. Therapeutic Uses
  10. Recap Questions

Vitamins

Vitamins are essential organic compounds required in small amounts for various physiological functions. They play a crucial role in metabolism, growth, development, and maintaining overall health.

Water-Soluble Vitamins

  • Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)
  • B Vitamins:
  • Thiamine (B1)
  • Riboflavin (B2)
  • Niacin (B3)
  • Pantothenic acid (B5)
  • Pyridoxine (B6)
  • Biotin (B7)
  • Folate (B9)
  • Cobalamin (B12)

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Stored in fat tissues and liver:

  • Vitamin A (Retinol)
  • Vitamin D (Calciferol)
  • Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
  • Vitamin K (Phylloquinone)

Pharmacodynamics

  • B Vitamins: Function as cofactors in enzymes involved in carbohydrate, amino acid, and DNA metabolism.
  • Vitamin C: Acts as an antioxidant, supports collagen synthesis, immune function, and enhances iron absorption.
  • Vitamin A: A precursor to retinal for vision; also regulates gene expression, supporting skin and immune health.
  • Vitamin D: Regulates calcium and phosphate metabolism; essential for bone health and immune support.
  • Vitamin E: An antioxidant protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage.
  • Vitamin K: Required for blood clotting by acting as a cofactor in the carboxylation of clotting factors.

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