Pharmacology Medication Classes & Definitions

Drug Purposes, Suffixes/Prefixes, Therapeutic Dosage, & More

What are adrenergic agonist drugs?

Mimics epi, norepi, and dopamine. Stimulates adrenergic receptors to mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, activating alpha or beta receptors, often used to treat conditions such as asthma and cardiac arrest. Increases renin release from the kidneys, heart rate and blood pressure, and opens the body’s tubes to all flow wide open. Can cause vasodilation or vasoconstriction depending on which receptor is activated.

What 3 types of drugs are considered adrenergic agonists?

Includes Bronchodilators, Vasopressors, and Cardiac Stimulators.

What are interventions for adrenergic agonists?

Monitor HR+BP, NO COLD TURKEY, caution with heart-affected patients, assess for adverse effects, cautious with the elderly.

Alpha 1 Agonists

Cause vasoconstriction and an increase in BP
ex: phenylephrine and norepinephrine

Uses: shock, hypertension, nasal decongestion

Beta 1 Agonists

Increase HR and heart contractility.

Used in heart failure and cardiac arrest.

Examples include dobutamine and isoproterenol.

Beta 2 Agonists

Causes bronchodilation, AKA improved airflow.

Used for asthma, COPD, and other respiratory conditions.

Examples include albuterol and salmeterol.

Non-selective Adrenergic Agonists

Stimulate both alpha and beta receptors.

Used for cardiac arrest and anaphylaxis.

Examples include epinephrine.

What are adrenergic antagonists?

These are drugs that block adrenergic receptors, inhibiting the action of epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Used to lower blood pressure and manage anxiety.

Example: propranolol and atenolol.

Alpha Blockers

Causes vasodilation and lowers blood pressure.

Used to treat hypertension.

Examples include prazosin and doxazosin.

Beta Blockers

Decreases HR + BP and cardiac workload.

Useful to lower blood pressure and reduce chest pain.

Examples include metoprolol and propranolol.

What are ACE Inhibitors?

A class of medications that inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which reduces the production of angiotensin II. This leads to vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, and reduced strain on the heart.

What are Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists?

A class of medications that block the action of angiotensin II at its receptor, resulting in vasodilation and lower blood pressure.

What are calcium channel blockers?

A class of medications that inhibit calcium ion influx through calcium channels, leading to relaxation of vascular smooth muscle and decreased cardiac contractility.

What are loop diuretics?

A class of diuretics that inhibit sodium and chloride reabsorption, leading to increased urine output and reduced fluid retention.

What are thrombolytics?

A drug class that busts clots not just prevents them. Works by dissolving fibrin, thereby restoring blood flow in blocked arteries. They are often used in the treatment of conditions such as heart attacks and strokes by breaking down blood clots.

What are opioids?

A class of drugs that are primarily used for pain relief. They act on the opioid receptors in the brain to reduce the perception of pain and can also induce feelings of euphoria.

What are NSAID’s?

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are medications used to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and lower fever. They work by inhibiting enzymes involved in the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for inflammation and pain.

What are local anesthetics?

Medications that block sensation in a specific area of the body. They work by inhibiting nerve conduction, preventing the transmission of pain signals.

What are antifungal drugs?

Medications used to treat infections caused by fungi. They work by inhibiting fungal growth or killing the fungi outright.

What are barbiturates?

A class of medication used primarily as sedatives and anxiolytics. They act on the central nervous system to produce calming effects and can also be used for anesthesia.

What are benzodiazapines?

A class of medications used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. They enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, producing a calming effect.