Miscellaneous Drug Classifications and Treatments

Flashcards for reviewing miscellaneous drug classifications and cancer treatment.

Alkylating Agents & Antimetabolites

Antineoplastics that interfere with cell metabolism at various life cycle points and are used for cancer treatment, disease control, and palliation.

Hormones & Other Agents (Antineoplastics)

Used for cancer treatment and symptom control by affecting hormone-sensitive tumors or boosting the immune response.

Medications for Eye Disorders

Used for open-angle glaucoma treatment by reducing aqueous humor production, lowering intraocular pressure.

Medications for Inflammation, Fever, Allergies

Used for pain, inflammation, and fever reduction by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis and suppressing the immune response.

Treatment of Anaphylaxis

Involves medications stimulating alpha (vasoconstriction), beta-1 (cardiac), and beta-2 (pulmonary) receptors to treat anaphylaxis, cardiac arrest and asthma.

Medications for Skin Disorders

Used for bacterial, fungal, and viral infections as well as lice and mite infestations by killing pathogens or parasites.

Goal of Chemotherapy

To be cytotoxic to cancer cells while minimizing harm to normal cells, targeting rapidly dividing cells.

Treatment of Fever – Antipyretics

Used to reduce fever by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.

Treatment of Allergy – Antihistamines & Adrenergics

Used for allergy prevention and nasal decongestion by blocking histamine receptors or stimulating the SNS.

Antineoplastics

A broad drug group that inhibits cancer cell growth through various mechanisms and used for general treatment of various cancers.

Alkylating Agents

Attach alkyl groups to DNA, causing cross-linking and preventing replication and are used for leukemias, lymphomas, breast & ovarian cancer.

Antimetabolites

Mimic DNA/RNA building blocks, disrupting synthesis and cell division and are used for leukemias, lymphomas, breast & GI cancers.

Hormonal Agents

Block or mimic hormones to slow growth of hormone-sensitive tumors and are used for breast, prostate, and endometrial cancers.