Drug class definitions

Question 1

A.C.E Inhibitors

Answer 1

Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Avoiding Angiotensin II may avoid increased blood pressure and vasoconstriction. They usually have the suffix “PRIL”

Question 2

A.2.R.B.

Answer 2

Angiotensin 2 Receptor Blockers block Angiotensin 2 enzymes from specific receptor sites. Avoiding Angiotensin 2 activity helps prohibit vasoconstriction. They usually have the suffix “ARTAN”

Question 3

Anti-Biotics

Answer 3

Anti-Biotics inhibit the reproduction of new Bacteria cells. There are several varieties and Drug Class Definitions of Anti-Biotics.

Question 4

Anti-Convulsants

Answer 4

Anti-Convulsants suppress the rapid firing of neurons in the nervous system (brain). Also known as Anti-epileptic drugs and Anti-Seizure drugs.

Question 5

Anti-Diabetics/ Sulfonylureas

Answer 5

lower glucose levels in the blood. They are only used to treat Type II Diabetes.

Question 6

Benzodiazepines

Answer 6

Also know as “Benzos”. Benzos are used as anti-anxiety agents, muscle relaxants, sedatives, and hypnotics. They usually have the suffix “PAM”.

Question 7

Beta Blockers (B1)

Answer 7

Also known as Beta-adrenergic blocking agents. Block adrenaline receptors, which are part of the central nervous system and mediate a “Fight or flight” response, which would cause actions in the heart. They usually have the suffix “OLOL”.

Question 8

Calcium Channel Blockers

Answer 8

Calcium channel blockers work by blocking calcium channels in cardiac muscle and blood vessels, thereby slowing down activity in the heart.

Question 9

Diuretics

Answer 9

Diuretics are primarily used to treat hypertension. They promote evacuation of water from the body, which decreases the load on the cardiovascular system

Question 10

HMG-CoA reductase Inhibitors

Answer 10

Also known as Statins, they inhibit the body’s cholesterol production and usually have the suffix “STATIN”

Question 11

NSAID

Answer 11

Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs are commonly used as pain killers and Fever Reducers. They are non-narcotic and can be sold OTC.

Question 12

Opiods

Answer 12

Opioids provide an analgesic effect by decreasing the perception of pain and increase pain tolerance

Question 13

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Answer 13

Inhibit the action of the gastric proton pump, thereby reducing gastric acid production. They usually have the suffix “PRAZOLE”

Question 14

S.S.R.I

Answer 14

Selective Seratonin Re-Uptake Inhibitors increase the body’s Seratonin level by inhibiting its re-uptake into the Presynaptic cell. Commonly indicated as an Anti-Depressant.