Medication classifications Flashcards
Analgesic
Relieves pain
Anesthetic
Produces local or general anesthesia
Antacid
Neutralizes stomach acid
Anti-Alzheimer
Treats dementia (Alzheimer disease)
Antianxiety
Reduces anxiety and tension
Antiarrhythmic
Treats heart arrhythmias
Antibiotic
Treats bacterial infections
Anticholinergic
Reduces smooth muscle spasms
Anticoagulant
Reduces blood clotting ability
Anticonvulsant
Reduces the frequency and severity of seizures
Antidepressant
Treats depression
Antiemetic
Reduces nausea and vomiting
Antifungal
Treats fungal infections
Antigout
Reduces the uric acid in the body
Antihistamine
Relieves allergies by blocking the histamine action
Antihyperglycemic
Reduces the blood glucose level
Antihypertensive
Lowers blood pressure
Anti-inflammatory
Reduces inflammation
Antimigraine
Treats or prevents migraine headaches
Antineoplastic
Slows or stops the growth of cancer cells
Antiplatelet
Prevents the function of platelets
Antipsychotic
Alters the chemical actions in the brain
Antitussive
Suppresses coughs
Antiviral
Treats viral infections
Bronchodilator
Relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchi
Contraceptive
Inhibits conception (prevents pregnancy
Corticosteroid
Reduces inflammation
Decongestant
Relieves nasal and sinus congestion
Diuretic
Increases urinary output and lowers blood pressure
Electrolyte
Maintains normal electrolyte level and proper functioning of the body systems
Erectile dysfunction agent
Facilitates an erection
Expectorant
Thins bronchial secretions, making it easier to cough up the mucus
Hematopoietic
Promotes blood cell production
Hemostatic
Clots blood
Hormone replacement
Replaces hormones or compensates for hormone deficiencies
Laxative
Promotes stools
Leukotriene receptor antagonist
Blocks the action of substances that cause asthma and allergic rhinitis
Miotic
Drains excessive fluid from the eye; used for glaucoma
Mydriatic
Dilates the pupil; used for ophthalmic procedures
Osteoporosis agent
Promotes bone mineral density; used to treat osteoporosis
Proton-pump inhibitor
Reduces the acid produced in the stomach
Sedative-hypnotic
Slows brain activity, allowing sleep
Stimulant
Stimulates the brain and body, makes the person more alert
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor
Blocks the action of TNF, preventing inflammation in autoimmune disorders