Pharmacology Drug Classifications
Pharmacology Drug Classifications
Overview of drug categories based on body system targeting and pharmacological effects.
Cardiovascular System
Drugs affecting heart and blood vessels.
Antihypertensives
Lower blood pressure to prevent heart complications.
ACE Inhibitors
End in '-pril', reduce blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme.
Beta Blockers
End in '-olol', decrease heart rate and dilate blood vessels.
Calcium Channel Blockers
End in '-dipine', exception: verapamil, diltiazem.
Diuretics
Includes thiazide, loop, and potassium-sparing; each subtype has characteristic drugs.
Nervous System
Drugs targeting the central and peripheral nervous system.
Analgesics
Manage pain, ranging from mild to severe.
Opioids
Named individually (e.g., morphine, fentanyl).
NSAIDs
End in '-fen', '-profen'; reduces inflammation, e.g., ibuprofen.
Local Anesthetics
End in '-caine', block nerve conduction locally.
Antidepressants
Relieve symptoms of depression.
SSRIs
End in '-pram' or '-traline', selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
SNRIs
End in '-faxine', serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors.
MAOIs
Named individually (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine).
Respiratory System
Agents affecting lung function and respiratory health.
Bronchodilators
Expand airways to ease breathing.
Beta-Agonists
End in '-terol', stimulate beta receptors to dilate airways.
Anticholinergics
End in '-tropium', block muscarinic receptors to open airways.
Corticosteroids
End in '-sone' or '-lone', reduce inflammation in airways.
Gastrointestinal System
Medications treating digestive tract conditions.
Antacids
Neutralize stomach acid, often contain ‘-ide’ (e.g., magnesium hydroxide).
Proton Pump Inhibitors
End in '-prazole', reduce gastric acid production.
Antiemetics
Control nausea and vomiting; suffixes vary widely.
Endocrine System
Regulate hormones and metabolic processes.
Insulin
Named individually (e.g., insulin glargine, insulin lispro).
Oral Hypoglycemics
End in '-gliptin' or '-glitazone', manage blood sugar in diabetes.
Thyroid Agents
Includes levothyroxine; regulates thyroid hormone levels.
Antimicrobial Drugs
Combat infectious organisms.
Antibiotics
Subdivided into classes like penicillins, cephalosporins, each has characteristic suffixes.
Penicillins
End in '-cillin', target bacterial cell wall synthesis.
Macrolides
End in '-thromycin', inhibit bacterial protein synthesis.
Antivirals
Named individually or end in '-vir', target virus replication.
Antifungals
End in '-azole', target fungal cell membranes.
Please note, this chart is not exhaustive and serves as a high-level outline for some commonly categorized pharmacologic drugs according to their therapeutic use and respective body system targeted as per NCLEX classifications.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Analgesic and antipyretic drugs available without prescription.
NSAIDs (Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Provide pain relief, reduce inflammation and lower fever.
Ibuprofen
Generic ibuprofen is branded as Advil and Motrin. It treats pain and inflammation.
Naproxen
Aleve is the brand version. It relieves pain and decreases swelling.
Aspirin
Bayer is a well-known aspirin brand used for pain and to reduce the risk of heart attack.
Indomethacin
Not as common, sold as Indocin, it's used for moderate pain and inflammation.
Ketoprofen
Orudis is the brand name. It treats pain and inflammation similarly to ibuprofen.
Acetaminophen
Primarily reduces fever and relieves pain, but does not affect inflammation.
Acetaminophen Generic
Tylenol is the popular brand name. It's mainly used for pain and fever.
Mapap
Mapap is another acetaminophen brand option for pain relief and fever reduction.
Ofirmev
Ofirmev is the intravenous form of acetaminophen for hospital use.
FeverAll
FeverAll is a brand of acetaminophen suppositories, used in infants and children.
Nervous System Pharmacology
Overview of drug categories targeting the nervous system.
Central Nervous System (CNS)
Drugs affecting brain and spinal cord functions.
Depressants
Reduce CNS activity, inducing relaxation or sleep.
Antipsychotics
Treat psychosis, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Antianxiety
Relieve anxiety without causing significant sedation.
Stimulants
Increase activity of the CNS, enhancing alertness.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
Medications targeting the nerves outside the CNS.
Cholinergics
Mimic the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Anticholinergics
Block the action of acetylcholine in the PNS.
Adrenergics
Mimic the action of adrenaline and noradrenaline.
Antiadrenergics
Block the effects of adrenaline in various tissues.
Specific Disorders
Drugs often specialized to treat specific nervous conditions.
Antiepileptics
Suppress seizures in conditions like epilepsy.
Antiparkinsonian
Treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Muscle Relaxants
Ease muscle spasms and spasticity.
Analgesics
Relieve pain through a variety of mechanisms.
Nervous System Pharmacology
Understanding the nervous system is crucial for pharmacology, particularly when studying drugs that impact its function.
Central Nervous System
Referred to as the control center, involving the brain and spinal cord, and targeted by various neurological drugs.
Brain
Coordinates sensory information and directs motor responses; site of action for CNS depressants and stimulants.
Spinal Cord
Conveys messages to and from the brain and body; affected by analgesics and anesthetics.
Blood-Brain Barrier
Selectively permits substances to enter the brain; critical in drug design and delivery.
Neurotransmitters
Chemical messengers; target for antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other neuromodulating agents.
Peripheral Nervous System
Connects the CNS to limbs and organs; influenced by drugs acting on peripheral targets.
Somatic Nervous System
Controls voluntary movements; site for neuromuscular blockers and stimulants.
Autonomic Nervous System
Regulates involuntary functions; divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic.
Sympathetic Nervous System
Responsible for 'fight or flight'; affected by adrenergic agonists and antagonists.
Parasympathetic Nervous System
Controls rest and digest; muscarinic agonists and antagonists modify its responses.
Drug Receptors
Where drugs bind and exert effects, commonly found on nerve cell membranes.
Ion Channels
A target for antiepileptics and local anesthetics — modify neuronal excitability.
G Protein-Coupled Receptors
Involved in a wide range of functions; include receptors for neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.
Enzyme-Linked Receptors
Key in signal transduction; targeted by drugs for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Nuclear Receptors
Slow-acting receptors that alter gene transcription; less common but relevant for hormonal drugs impacting the nervous system.
Drug Action Mechanisms
Describes how drugs are affecting the nervous system components.
Agonists
Mimic neurotransmitter action to activate receptors; used in deficiency states or to increase activity.
Antagonists
Block neurotransmitter action to inhibit overactivity; commonly used in hypertension or anxiety.
Reuptake Inhibitors
Prevent the removal of neurotransmitters, enhancing their effects; key in depression treatment.
Enzyme Inhibitors
Block breakdown of neurotransmitters; used in diseases where increasing neurotransmitter concentration is beneficial.
Pharmacokinetics and Dynamics
Understanding drug movement and effects within the body.
Absorption
Determines how a drug enters bloodstream and reaches its target; affected by blood-brain barrier.
Distribution
Describes dispersal throughout the body; lipid-soluble drugs more easily penetrate the CNS.
Metabolism
Liver enzymes break down drugs; central to understanding dosing and drug interactions.
Excretion
Removal of drugs or their metabolites, primarily through kidneys; important for drug clearance and duration of action.
Types of Drugs and Their Examples
Drugs are classified based on their effects and properties. There are several types, each with distinct characteristics and examples.
Stimulants
Stimulants accelerate brain activity, boost energy, and increase alertness.
Cocaine
A powerful and addictive drug derived from coca leaves.
Amphetamines
Includes drugs like Adderall and methamphetamine, used medicinally and recreationally.
Caffeine
A common stimulant found in coffee, tea, and many sodas.
Nicotine
The addictive substance found in tobacco products.
Depressants
Depressants slow down the function of the central nervous system.
Alcohol
A legal depressant that alters mood and coordination.
Benzodiazepines
Medications like Valium and Xanax, used to treat anxiety.
Barbiturates
Formerly common for anxiety and insomnia, now less so due to their risk.
Opioids
Includes prescription pain relievers like morphine and illicit drugs like heroin.
Hallucinogens
Hallucinogens cause altered perceptions and can lead to psychological effects.
LSD
A potent hallucinogen known for its strong effects on the mind.
Psilocybin
Found in certain mushrooms, it causes hallucinations and an altered state of consciousness.
MDMA (Ecstasy)
Though often classified as a stimulant, it has strong hallucinogenic properties.
DMT
A powerful chemical found in some Amazonian plants.
Dissociatives
Dissociatives cause a sense of detachment from reality.
Ketamine
Used both as a medical anesthetic and a recreational drug.
PCP
Also known as angel dust, it can cause hallucinations and a dissociative state.
DXM
Found in some cough suppressants; in high doses can cause dissociation.
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, used for dental procedures and recreationally.
Cannabinoids
Derived from the Cannabis plant, they have a range of effects on the mind and body.
Marijuana (Cannabis)
The most widely used illicit drug globally, with psychoactive effects.
Hashish
A concentrated form of cannabis resin.
Synthetic cannabinoids
Often marketed as "spice" or "K2," these are man-made chemicals with unpredictable effects.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
Non-psychoactive but believed to have therapeutic benefits.
Drug Interaction Overview
Essential insights into how drugs can interact with one another.
Cardiovascular System Interactions
Drugs for the heart and blood vessels have complex interactions.
Antihypertensives with Diuretics
Using together enhances the blood pressure-lowering effect.
Beta Blockers with Calcium Channel Blockers
May excessively reduce heart rate.
ACE Inhibitors with NSAIDs
NSAIDs can decrease the effectiveness of ACE inhibitors.
Nervous System Interactions
Central and peripheral nervous system medications can interact significantly.
Opioids with Antidepressants
Increased risk of central nervous system depression.
NSAIDs with Antihypertensives
NSAIDs may reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of antihypertensives.
Local Anesthetics with Antihypertensives
May need to adjust dosing to prevent profound hypotension.
Respiratory System Interactions
Agents for lung function must be carefully combined.
Bronchodilators with Beta Blockers
Beta Blockers may negate the effects of beta-agonist bronchodilators.
Corticosteroids with Diuretics
Increased risk of hypokalemia (low potassium levels).
Gastrointestinal System Interactions
Balancing interactions is vital for digestive health medications.
Antacids with Antifungals
Antacids may hinder the absorption of certain antifungals.
Proton Pump Inhibitors with Antivirals
PPIs can alter the effectiveness of some antivirals.
Endocrine System Interactions
Hormonal medications need to be monitored for interactions.
Insulin with Oral Hypoglycemics
Used together for a synergistic effect, but can lead to hypoglycemia.
Thyroid Agents with Antidepressants
Thyroid medications can increase the risk of side effects from antidepressants.
Antimicrobial Interactions
Interactions play a significant role in treatment of infections.
Antibiotics with Anticoagulants
Certain antibiotics can potentiate the effect of anticoagulants.
Antivirals with Analgesics
Some analgesics can impact antiviral drug levels in the blood.
Antifungals with Immunosuppressants
Antifungals can lead to increased levels of immunosuppressants, necessitating dosage adjustments.
Note: This mind map is a simplified outline of potential drug interactions. Healthcare professionals must monitor and assess for interactions on a case-by-case basis.
Drug Legislation Evolution 1900s-Present
An overview of significant drug acts and amendments shaping the pharmaceutical and healthcare landscapes from the early 1900s to the present.
Early 1900s Regulation
Developing the groundwork for modern drug laws.
Pure Food and Drug Act 1906
First law to regulate manufacturing of food and medicines, prohibiting misbranded and adulterated products.
Harrison Narcotics Tax Act 1914
Imposed taxes on the distribution of opiates and cocaine, effectively limiting their availability to the public.
Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act 1938
Replaced the 1906 Act, expanding the FDA's authority to oversee the safety of food, drugs, and cosmetics.
Mid-20th Century Updates
Responding to evolving challenges in drug safety and efficacy.
Kefauver Harris Amendment 1962
Strengthened drug regulation by requiring proof of effectiveness and safety of drugs before approval.
Controlled Substances Act 1970
Established schedules for drugs based upon their potential for abuse and medical value, and set up the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Orphan Drug Act 1983
Encouraged the development and commercialization of drugs treating rare diseases affecting fewer than 200,000 Americans.
Late 20th Century Acts
Introducing faster drug approvals and patient protection.
Prescription Drug User Fee Act 1992 (PDUFA)
Allowed the FDA to collect fees from drug manufacturers to fund the new drug approval process, reducing the time required.
Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act 1994
Defined what constitutes a dietary supplement and exempted them from strict pre-market approval rules that apply to drugs.
Food and Drug Administration Modernization Act 1997 (FDAMA)
Updated FDA processes, making them more efficient and flexible, and allowed fast-track drug approvals.
21st Century Developments
Tackling contemporary health issues and technology influences.
Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act 2003
Introduced Medicare Part D, providing benefits for prescription drugs to Medicare beneficiaries.
FDA Amendments Act 2007 (FDAAA)
Expanded the FDA's authorities further to enhance drug safety, imposing stronger penalties for non-compliance.
21st Century Cures Act 2016
Accelerated drug and device approval processes and incorporated patient experience on decision making.
COVID-19 Response
Adjustments due to the global pandemic.
CARES Act 2020
Included provisions for supply chain flexibility and prioritized the review of drug applications related to COVID-19.
EUA for COVID-19 Vaccines 2020
Emergency Use Authorizations facilitated the timely approval and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines during the pandemic.