Medical Terminology Simplified

Drug Classifications • APPENDIX D 611

Drug Classification Description

K, L, M

keratolytics

laxatives (cathartics,

purgatives)

miotics

mucolytics

mydriatics

N, O, P

nitrates

opiates

parasiticides

potassium supplements

prostaglandins

protectives

proton pump inhibitors

psychotropics

R, S

relaxants

salicylates

sedatives

skeletal muscle relaxants

Destroy and soften the outer layer of skin so that it is sloughed off or shed

Strong keratolytics are effective for removing warts and corns. Milder preparations promote

the shedding of scales and crusts in eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. Weak

keratolytics irritate inflamed skin, acting as tonics that speed up the healing process.

Induce bowel movements or loosen stool

When used in smaller doses, laxatives relieve constipation. When used in larger doses, they

evacuate the entire gastrointestinal (GI) tract—for example, as preparation for surgery or

intestinal radiologic examinations.

Constrict the pupil of the eye

Miotics help treat glaucoma.

Liquefy sputum or reduce its viscosity so that it can be coughed up more easily

Dilate the pupil and paralyze the muscles of accommodation of the iris

Mydriatics help prepare the eye for internal examination and treat inflammatory conditions

of the iris.

Dilate arteries and increase blood flow to the myocardium

Nitrates treat angina pectoris.

Relieve pain

Opiates contain opium or its derivative. They are commonly prescribed on a short-term basis

due to their strong addictive property.

Destroy systemic parasites, such as pinworm or tapeworm, in oral form or insect parasites,

such as mites and lice, in topical form

Increase the potassium level of the blood

Potassium can be administered orally or intravenously (IV) when dangerously low levels

occur. It is used as a replacement for potassium loss due to diuretics.

Used to induce labor, terminate pregnancy, or treat erectile dysfunction, patent ductus

arteriosus, or pulmonary hypertension

Function by covering, cooling, drying, or soothing inflamed skin

Protectives do not penetrate or soften the skin but form a long-lasting film that protects the

skin from air, water, and clothing during the natural healing process.

Block the final stage of hydrochloric acid production in the stomach

Proton pump inhibitors treat peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Alter chemical balance in the brain, causing changes in perception, mood, and behavior

Psychotropics are commonly employed in the management of psychiatric disorders.

Reduce tension, causing relaxation of muscles or bowel

Relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce inflammation and fever

Exert a calming or tranquilizing effect

Relieve muscle spasms and stiffness

Continued

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