Lesson 1-2 pharma

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

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 outweigh the potential benefits. These drugs should not

be used in pregnant women

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 C

Animal reproduction studies have reported adverse effects on the fetus, however there are no well-controlled studies in humans but potential benefits may indicate use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks

Category B

Animal reproduction studies indicate no risk to the fetus, however there are no

well-controlled studies in pregnant women.

Category A

Adequate and well-controlled studies indicate no risk to the fetus in the first trimester of pregnancy or later