Common Drug Classifications

Analgesic

Non-narcotic (OTCs) and narcotics for pain relief

ex: Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen,

Antacid

Relieves indigestion and heartburn

ex: Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Oxide, and Aluminum Hydroxide

Antianxiety

Suppresses anxiety and relaxes muscles

ex: Xanax (alprazolem)

Antiarrhythmic

Controls heart irregularities like tachycardia, bradycardia, etc

Class I - Sodium Channel Blockers

Class II - Beta Blockers

Class III - Potassium Channel Blockers

Class IV - Calcium Channel Blockers

Antibacterial

Treats limited and broad spectrum infections for bacteria

Ex: Moxatag (Amoxicillin)

Antibiotic

Treats bacterial infections

ex: Ceftriaxone

Anticoagulant/Thrombolytic

Prevents and dissolves blood clots (blood thinners)

Ex: Coumadin

Anticonvulsant

Prevents epileptic seizures

Ex: Phenobarbital

Antidepressant

Treats depression and have multiple classes:

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

• Serotonin and Norepineprhine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

• Tricylic Antidepressants (TCAs)

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

Antidiarrheal

Diarrhea relief

Ex: Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth subsalicylate)

Antiemetic

Treats nausea and vomiting

Ex: Ondansetron

Antifungal

Treats fungal infections

Diflucan (Fluconazole)

Antihistamine

Counteracts histamine, allergic reactions

Ex: Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)

Antihypertensive

Lowers blood pressure

Ex: Tenormin (Atenolol)

Anti-inflammatory

Reduces inflammation

Antineoplastic

Treats cancer

Ex: Oncouin (Vincristine)

Antipsychotic

Treats severe psychiatric disorders, major tranquilizers

Ex: Olanzapine

Antipyretic

Reduces fever

Antiviral

Treats viral infections

Ex: Prezista

Barbiturate

Sleeping drugs

Ex: Primidone