Drug Classifcations Actions

Nonopioid Analgesics (Action)

Relieves mild to moderate pain fever and inflammation

Antacids (Action)

Neutralizes stomach acid by decreasing acid or strengthening stomach muscle tone

Antibiotics (Action)

Prevent or treat infections (course must be completed entirely)

Antidepressants (Action)

Treats depression (takes 2-4 weeks to see results)

Alzheimer's Drugs (Action)

Acetyl cholinesterase inhibitors that improve cognitive function

Opioid Analgesics (Action)

Treatment of moderate to severe pain (controlled substance)

Antianxiety (Action)

Short term treatment of anxiety (gradually decrease dose to stop)

Anticoagulants (Action)

Used to prevent or treat blood clots

Antiemetics (Action)

Prevent and treat nausea and vomiting

Antifungal (Action)

Treats fungal and yeast infections

Antitussive (Action)

Controls coughing

Bronchodilator (Action)

Relaxes bronchi to allow more air into and out of lungs

Diuretics (Action)

Promote fluid loss by increasing urine excretion

Insulin (Action)

Lowers blood glucose levels

Antihypertensives (Action)

Controls (but does not cure) high blood pressure

Antipyretic (Action)

Reduces fever

Antiulcer (Action)

Reduce acid production

Corticosteroids (Action)

Reduces lung inflammation and treats allergic reactions

Expectorant (Action)

Thins secretions in the lungs to make them easier to expel

Osmotic Laxatives (Action)

Distend bowel from fluid accumulation to move stool

Stimulant Laxatives (Action)

Increase muscle contraction to move stool faster

NSAIDs (Action)

Treat inflammation and mild pain (give with food)

Skeletal Muscle Relaxant (Action)

Suppresses brain areas controlling muscle movement

Stool Softener (Action)

Mild laxatives used to soften the stool

Vaccines (Action)

Weakened/dead organisms given to develop immunity