Overview of Drug Classification Schemes

Agonist / Mimetic

bind with receptors to activate; to accelerate or slow normal cell functions

Antagonist / Blocker

bind with receptors but do not activate; block receptor action by preventing other substances from activating

Analgesic

relieves pain

Anesthetic

loss of all sensation; including reversible loss of consciousness

Anti-Infectives

treat diseases produced by microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and parasitic worms)

Antineoplastics

inhibit new growth of cancer cells

Antianginals

treat chest pain

Antiarrhythmics

treat irregular heart rhythms

Antihyperlipidemics

lower blood cholesterol

Antihypertensives

reduce blood pressure

Thrombolytics

dissolve blood clots

Anticoagulants

prevent formation of blood clots

Vasopressors

increase blood pressure

Dermatological Agents

agents used to treat skin conditions

Electrolyte Agents

balance blood fluids

Hematological Agents

agents that affect blood cell production and clotting

Hormones and Modifiers

agents that affect hormonal balance

Immunobiologic Agents

provide immunity against pathogens

Musculoskeletal Agents

agents that affect muscles and bones

Neurological Agents

agents that affect the nervous system

Psychotropic Agents

affect behavior and psychiatric state

Respiratory Agents

agents that affect the respiratory system

Ophthalmic and Otic Agents

agents used for eye and ear conditions

Anthelmintics

treat parasitic worms

Antimetabolites

inhibits synthesis of cellular enzymes

Alkylating Agents

antineoplastic that interferes with mitosis

Antidiarrheals

reduce diarrhea

Antiemetics

reduce/prevent nausea and vomiting

Antacid/Antiulcer

neutralizes stomach acid

Hematopoietic Agents

stimulate blood cell growth

Hemostatic Agents

prevent excessive bleeding

Immunobiologic Agents

provide immunity against pathogens

Immune Globulins

proteins that provide passive immunity

Antirheumatic agents

anti-inflammatory treat progressive arthritis

Antigout

increase elimination of uric acid

Osteoporotic

increase bone density

Antiepileptic

reduce number and severity of seizures

Antipsychotics

affect behavior and psychiatric state

Antihistamines

block histamine action of WBC/inflammatory substances

Decongestants

constrict mucous membranes, reduce nasal passage drainage

Antitussives

reduce cough

Expectorants and Mucolytics

thin/break apart mucus and reduce mucus production;

Bronchodilators

widen airways

Ophthalmics

eyes

Otics

ears