Drug Classes

Question 1

Statins

Answer 1

Suffix
- '-statin'
Common Types
- Atorvastatin
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits HMG-CoA Reductase
Indications
- Prevent CVD
Side Effects
- Rhabdomyolysis
- Raised liver enzymes

Question 2

Cholinesterase Inhibitors

Answer 2

Suffix
- N/A
Common Types
- Donepezil
- Rivastigmine
- Galantamine
Mechanism of Action
- Increases level and duration of action of neurotransmitter acetylcholine
Indications
- Myasthenia gravis
- Alzheimers
- Dementia
- Parkinson's
- Glaucoma
Side Effects
- N&V
- Urinary retention
- SLUDGE Syndrome
- Prolonged muscle contraction

Question 3

NMDA Antagonist

Answer 3

Suffix
- N/A
Common Types
- Memantine
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks glutamatergic system by blocking NMDA receptors
Indications
- Moderate-Severe Alzheimer's
Side Effects
- Cognitive - confusions, insomnia
- Perceptual - hallucinations
- EPS - in younger population

Question 4

Anti-Diarrhoeals

Answer 4

Suffix
- N/A
Common Types
- 1) Loperamide and codeine (opioids)
- 2) Bulking agents
Mechanism of Action
- 1) Activates opioid receptors in the gut
- 2) Absorb water in the colon to increase bulk and stimulate peristaltic activity
Indications
- Non-infective diarrhoea
Side Effects
- Constipation