Pharmacology: Common Medications & High-Yield Facts

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Non-opioid analgesic. Max 4 g/day; overdose causes severe liver toxicity.

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)

NSAID inhibiting COX-1/2. Risks include GI bleeding and kidney injury.

Naproxen (Aleve)

Long-acting NSAID inhibiting COX-1/2. Risks include GI bleeding and renal injury.

Meloxicam (Mobic)

Preferential COX-2 inhibitor NSAID. Once-daily dosing; carries GI bleeding risk.

Diclofenac (Voltaren)

Oral/topical NSAID. Carries GI bleeding and long-term cardiovascular risks.

Tramadol (Ultram)

Weak opioid agonist and SNRI. Increases seizure and serotonin syndrome risks.

Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen (Norco)

Opioid combination. Causes sedation, constipation, and risk of respiratory depression.

Oxycodone/Acetaminophen (Percocet)

Opioid combination. Causes sedation, constipation, and respiratory depression.

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)

Centrally acting muscle relaxant. Short-term use; causes drowsiness and dry mouth.

Tizanidine (Zanaflex)

Alpha2 agonist muscle relaxant. Causes drowsiness, hypotension, and dry mouth.

Prednisone (Deltasone)

Systemic corticosteroid. Causes hyperglycemia and infection risk; taper off slowly.

Methylprednisolone (Medrol)

Systemic corticosteroid. Causes hyperglycemia; requires gradual taper after prolonged use.

Methotrexate (Trexall)

Folate antimetabolite DMARD. Dosed weekly; requires folic acid co-prescription and LFT monitoring.

Allopurinol (Zyloprim)

Xanthine oxidase inhibitor. Prevents chronic gout flares; not for acute attacks.

Colchicine (Colcrys)

Neutrophil inhibitor for acute gout flares. Diarrhea is a primary side effect.

Alendronate (Fosamax)

Bisphosphonate for osteoporosis. Take empty stomach; remain upright 30 minutes.

Calcitriol (Rocaltrol)

Active vitamin D increasing GI calcium absorption. Requires routine calcium monitoring.

Ferrous Sulfate (Feosol)

Iron supplement. Causes constipation and dark stools; best absorbed empty stomach.

Potassium Chloride (K-Tab)

Electrolyte supplement. Take with meals; never crush extended-release tablets.

Folic Acid (Folvite)

Essential vitamin for DNA synthesis. Given with methotrexate and in pregnancy.

Tamsulosin (Flomax)

Alpha1 blocker relaxing prostate smooth muscle. Causes orthostatic hypotension and dizziness.

Finasteride (Proscar)

5-alpha reductase inhibitor. Pregnant women must avoid handling crushed tablets.

Sildenafil (Viagra)

PDE-5 inhibitor. Absolutely contraindicated with concurrent nitrate use.