Medical Terminology Simplified

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APPENDIX

D

Drug Classifications

This section provides a quick reference of common drug categories. They include prescription and over-the-counter

drugs that are used to treat symptoms, signs, and diseases of the various body systems.

Drug Classification Description

A

alkylates

analgesics

angiotensin-converting

enzyme inhibitors

androgens

anesthetics

antacids

antianginals

antianxiety drugs

antiarrhythmics

antibiotics

anticoagulants

Treat certain types of malignancies

Alkylates break deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) strands in the cancerous cell by substituting an

alkyl group for a hydrogen molecule in the DNA.

Relieve minor to severe pain

Analgesics include nonprescription drugs, such as aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-

inflammatory agents, and those classified as controlled substances that are available only

by prescription.

Lower blood pressure by inhibiting conversion of angiotensin I (an inactive enzyme) to

angiotensin II (a potent vasoconstrictor)

Increase testosterone levels

Hyposecretion of testosterone may be due to surgical removal of the testes or decreased levels

of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary gland.

Produce partial or complete loss of sensation with or without loss of consciousness

General anesthetics act on the brain to produce complete loss of feeling with loss of conscious-

ness. Local anesthetics act on nerves or nerve tracts to affect a local area only without loss of

consciousness.

Neutralize excess acid in the stomach and help relieve gastritis and ulcer pain

Antacids are also used to relieve indigestion and reflux esophagitis (heartburn).

Relieve angina pectoris by vasodilation

Reduce anxiety and neurosis

Antianxiety drugs are classified as minor tranquilizers and anxiolytics.

Treat cardiac arrhythmias by stabilizing the electrical conduction of the heart

Inhibit growth of or destroy microorganisms

Antibiotics are used extensively in treatment of infectious diseases.

Prevent or delay blood coagulation

Anticoagulants prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and postoperative clot formation and

decrease the risk of stroke.

Continued

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