Drug Categories Flashcards
Analgesics
Pain relief.
Two types: (1) non-narcotic for mild pain and (2) narcotic for severe pain.
Antacids
Indigestion and heartburn relief.
Anti-anxiety.
Anxiety suppressant and muscle relaxant.
Antibiotics.
Used to combat bacterial infection.
Anticoagulants and thrombolytics.
Prevent blood clotting. Help dissolve and disperse blood clots.
Anticonvulsants.
Prevents epileptic seizures.
Antidepressants.
Depression treatment.
Three types: (1) tricyclics, (2) monoamine oxidase inhibitors, (3) selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Antifungals.
Used to treat fungal infections, which most commonly affect the hair, skin, nails, or mucous membranes.
Antihistamines.
Used primarily to counteract the effects of histamine, allergic reaction chemical.
Antihypertensives.
Lowers blood pressure.
Antipsychotics.
Used to treat symptoms of severe psychiatric disorders.
Antivirals.
Used to treat viral infections or to provide protection against infections.
Bronchodilators.
Used to treat asthma. Opens up the bronchial tubes when they have become narrowed by muscle spasm.
Corticosteroids.
Primarily used as (1) anti-inflammatories in arthritis or asthma or as (2) immunosuppressives.
Cytotoxics.
Used to kill or damage cells. Used as cancer treatment or as immunosuppressives.
Diuretics.
Reduces water retention by increasing urine production. Used to treat mild cases of high blood pressure.
Expectorant.
Stimulates the flow of saliva and promotes coughing to eliminate phlegm from the respiratory tract.
