Category D
Positive human fetal risk has been reported from investigational or marketing
experience, or human studies. Considering potential benefit versus risk may, in
selected cases, warrant the use of these drugs in pregnant women.
Category X
Fetal abnormalities reported and positive evidence of fetal risk in humans is
available from animal and/or human studies. The risks involved clearly out-
weigh the potential benefits. These drugs should not be used in pregnant women.
Locating Drug Information
Before administering a drug to a patient (see Chapter 4), healthcare providers
need to know the following information about the drug:
- Generic and trade name: The generic name is the official name of the drug
while the trade name is the drug’s brand name. - Clinical uses and indications for use: Describes the purpose of the drug and
when the drug is to be given to a patient. - Mechanism of action: Describes how the drug works.
- Adverse and side effects and toxicity: Identifies the effects the drug has
other than the therapeutic effect. - Signs and symptoms to monitor: Identifies the patient’s physiological
response that must be evaluated after the drug is administered. - What to teach the patient: Specifies instructions that must be given to the
patient before and after the drug is administered.
This information is available in product inserts, various drug handbooks for
nurses, and in computerized pharmacology databases and in the following:
- American Hospital Formulary Service (AHFS) Drug Information:
Published by the American Society of Hospital Pharmacists, Inc. and con-
tains an overview of every drug. - United States Pharmacopeia Dispensing Information:Published by the
U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention and highlights clinical information, which
is the same as the drug inserts found in packages of drugs.
CHAPTER 1 An Inside Look at Pharmacology^11