Chapter 44: Pharmacology Basics

What is pharmacology?

Study of drugs, their actions, effects, and uses.

What does the FDA regulate?

Drug approval, safety, labeling, and OTC/prescription drug regulation.

What does the DEA regulate?

Controlled substances.

What are Schedule I drugs?

High abuse potential and no accepted federal medical use.

What are Schedule II drugs?

Accepted medical use with high abuse potential; strict controls.

What are Schedule III-V drugs?

Accepted medical use with decreasing abuse/dependence potential from III to V.

Where should hydrocodone combination products be classified federally?

Schedule II.

What should be taught about cannabis scheduling?

Federal law uses Schedules I-V; cannabis laws vary by state, so follow law and facility policy.

What is a drug contraindication?

Reason a drug should not be used.

What is an adverse reaction?

Unwanted or harmful drug response.

What is a side effect?

Predictable secondary drug effect.

What is drug tolerance?

Reduced response requiring higher dose for same effect.

What is drug dependence?

Physiologic or psychological need for a drug.

What is pharmacokinetics?

Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion.

What organ is most associated with drug metabolism?

Liver.

What organ is most associated with drug excretion?

Kidneys.

What is the MA role in medications?

Administer medications only as ordered and allowed; observe/report reactions; document.

What should the MA do before administering any medication?

Verify order, rights, allergies, contraindications/concerns, expiration, and patient identity.