Tech 101 Flashcards
Pharmacology
Derived from the Greek word “pharmakon” meaning remedy, and “logos” meaning knowledge, the word pharmacology loosely translates to “the knowledge of drugs”.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A branch of pharmacology that refers to the rate of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
Pharmacodynamics
A branch of pharmacology that refers to the biological and physical effects of the drug on the body.
Brand name
A proprietary name protected by a patent. This is often referred to as the manufacturer’s trademark name. The first letter of the brand name is always capitalized.
Generic name
A nonproprietary name approved by the United States Adopted Names (USAN) Council. The generic drug must have the same active ingredients, dosage strength, and formulation as the brand name drugs, but may have different inactive ingredients. The first letter of a generic name is NOT capitalized.
Chemical name
A name given to a drug during the initial clinical investigation, referring to its atomic or molecular structure.
Dosage form
The physical manifestation of the drug or how the drug is supplied.
Aerosol spray
A solution containing an active ingredient with a propellant that is meant to carry the drug to the site of action.
Aerosol spray example
Benzocaine aerosol spray
Caplet
A tablet shaped like a capsule, containing a solid inside.
Caplet
A tablet shaped like a capsule, containing a solid inside.
Caplets example
erythromycin caplet
Capsule
A dosage form containing powder or a liquid a gelatin coating.
Capsule example
Nexium capsule
Cream
An oil-in-water emulsion for external use.
Cream example
hydrocortisone cream
Elixir
A flavored, sweetened hydroalcoholic solution.
Elixir example
phenobarbital elixir
Emulsion
A dosage form made by the dispersion of one liquid into another that is immiscible.
Emulsion example
estradiol emulsion
Extract
A potent dosage form containing a powder, ointment like form, or a solid produced by the evaporation of the aqueous solvent.
Extract example
peppermint extract
Film
A dissolving oral drug strip made of hydrophilic polymers that is used for buccal or sublingual administration.
Film example
Belbuca buccal film
Gel
A dosage formed from ultrafine particles in a liquid.
Gel examples
lidocaine gel
Granules
An agglomerate of powder particles that form larger, free-flowing particles.
Granules example
Lamisil Oral Granules
Intradermal implant, pellet
A dosage form placed under the skin via minor surgery, allowing the drug to be released slowly.
Intradermal implant, pellet example
Implanon ( *Noraplant)
Lotion
A liquid suspension that is used for topical administration, containing insoluble dispersed solids.
Lotion example
calamine lotion