Therapeutic Actions of Medications

Question 1

Indications

Answer 1

diseases, signs and symptoms that may be treated by using a specific drug
A drug indication does not suggest complete resolution, total relief or a cure from using the drug but is based on success achieved in clinical trials.

Question 2

Contraindications

Answer 2

conditions which make a particular treatment or procedure potentially inadvisable
- a contraindication may be absolute or relative

Question 3

Examples of ‘Indication and Contraindication’

Answer 3

1. Use of aspirin is indicated in cardiac patients at risk of thrombosis (intravascular blood clotting).
   Aspirin is contraindicated for patients with bleeding manifestations ( gastric bleeding).
2. Use of penicillin is indicated in patients with infection of the lungs (pneumonia).
   Penicillin is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergy to the drug.