Pharmacology: Common Medications and Side Effects

Cardiovascular System Drugs

Beta-Blockers * Generic Suffix: (-olol) * Representative Examples: * Metoprolol * Atenolol * Side Effects: * Bradycardia (slow heart rate). * Hypotension (low blood pressure). * Fatigue. * Bronchospasm (constriction of the airways).
ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors) * Generic Suffix: (-pril) * Representative Examples: * Lisinopril * Enalapril * Recognized Side Effects: * A dry, persistent cough. * Hyperkalemia (characterized by high potassium levels). * Hypotension.
Angiotensin $II$ Receptor Blockers (ARBs) * Generic Suffix: (-sartan) * Representative Example: * Losartan * Clinical Profile and Side Effects: * Functionally similar to ACE inhibitors. * Noted for being less likely to cause a cough compared to ACE inhibitors. * Associated risks include hypotension and dizziness.
Calcium Channel Blockers * Generic Suffix and Specific Medications: * Suffix: (-dipine) * Non-dihydropyridines: Verapamil and Diltiazem. * Side Effects: * Peripheral edema (swelling of lower limbs). * Dizziness. * Constipation, which is especially associated with the use of Verapamil.
Diuretics * Classification: Various classes. * Common Side Effects: * Potassium loss, known as hypokalemia. * Dehydration. * Dizziness.

Gastrointestinal System Drugs

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) * Generic Suffix: (-prazole) * Representative Examples: * Omeprazole * Pantoprazole * Long-Term Use Side Effects: * Headaches. * Abdominal pain. * Potential deficiencies in magnesium and Vitamin $\text{B}_{12}$ .
$\text{H}_2$ -Receptor Antagonists * Generic Suffix: (-tidine) * Representative Example: * Famotidine * Side Effects: * Side effects are considered rare for this class. * Potential issues include headache, diarrhea, or constipation.
GLP- $1$ Agonists * Generic Suffix: (-tide) * Representative Example: * Liraglutide * Common Gastrointestinal (GI) Side Effects: * Nausea. * Vomiting. * Diarrhea. * Constipation.
Antacids and Mucosal Protectants * Specific Compound: Calcium carbonate. * Reported Side Effects: * Constipation. * Rebound acidity.

Respiratory System Drugs

$\text{Beta}_2$ -Agonists * Generic Suffix: (-terol) * Representative Examples: * Albuterol * Salmeterol * Common Side Effects: * Tremors. * Tachycardia (defined as a fast heart rate). * Anxiety.
Inhaled Corticosteroids * Generic Suffixes: (-sone, -ide) * Representative Example: * Fluticasone * Known Side Effects: * Oral thrush (medically referred to as candidiasis). * Throat irritation.
Anticholinergics * Generic Suffix: (-pium) * Representative Example: * Ipratropium * Side Effects: * Dry mouth. * Blurred vision. * Urinary retention.
Leukotriene Inhibitors * Generic Suffix: (-lukast) * Representative Example: * Montelukast * Associated Complications: * Headaches. * In some cases, neurobehavioral changes.

Eyes and Ears Drugs

Ophthalmic Beta-Blockers * Generic Suffix: (-olol) * Systemic Side Effects: * Despite topical application, they can cause systemic effects such as bradycardia. * Exacerbation of asthma symptoms.
Prostaglandin Analogs * Generic Suffix: (-oprost) * Representative Example: * Latanoprost * Side Effects: * Change in iris color (specifically darkening). * Increased eyelash growth. * Itchy eyes.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors * Generic Suffix: (-zolamide) * Side Effects: * Burning or stinging sensation immediately upon application. * A bitter taste.
Steroid Eye Drops * Generic Suffixes: (-pred, -one) * Complications of Long-Term Use: * Increased intraocular pressure, potentially leading to glaucoma. * Development of cataracts.
Ototoxic Medications * Identified Drug Classes: * Aminoglycoside antibiotics, recognizable by the generic suffix (-micin). * Loop diuretics. * Auditory Side Effects: * Tinnitus (ringing in the ears). * Hearing loss.

Beta-Blockers
   - Generic Suffix: (-olol)
   - Representative Examples: Metoprolol, Atenolol
   - Mechanism of Action: Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of epinephrine (adrenaline) on beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to decreased heart rate and force of contraction.
   - Side Effects:
    - Bradycardia (slow heart rate) can occur, which may necessitate monitoring of heart rate in patients.
    - Hypotension (low blood pressure) may lead to dizziness or fainting, especially upon standing.
    - Fatigue is common as the body adjusts to reduced cardiac output.
    - Bronchospasm (constriction of the airways) particularly affects patients with pre-existing respiratory concerns, such as asthma.
ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors)
   - Generic Suffix: (-pril)
   - Representative Examples: Lisinopril, Enalapril
   - Mechanism of Action: These medications inhibit the enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, effectively dilating blood vessels and reducing blood pressure.
   - Recognized Side Effects:
    - A dry, persistent cough is a common complaint due to bradykinin accumulation.
    - Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) can be dangerous and monitoring is essential, especially in patients with renal issues.
    - Hypotension can arise, particularly during the initial doses or when combined with diuretics.
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
   - Generic Suffix: (-sartan)
   - Representative Example: Losartan
   - Clinical Profile and Side Effects:
    - Functionally similar to ACE inhibitors but with less incidence of cough as a side effect.
    - Noted for efficacy in managing hypertension and protecting kidney function in diabetics.
    - Risks include hypotension, dizziness, and potential renal impairment, requiring renal function tests before and during treatment.
Calcium Channel Blockers
   - Generic Suffix and Specific Medications:
    - Suffix: (-dipine)
    - Non-dihydropyridines: Verapamil and Diltiazem
   - Mechanism of Action: These drugs prevent calcium from entering the cells of the heart and blood vessel walls, leading to relaxations of the vessels and reductions in heart rate.
   - Side Effects:
    - Peripheral edema (swelling of lower limbs) can occur due to increased capillary permeability.
    - Dizziness may arise due to lowered blood pressure or decreased cerebral perfusion.
    - Constipation is particularly noted with Verapamil as it slows peristalsis in the gut.
Diuretics
   - Classification: Various classes (e.g., thiazides, loop, potassium-sparing) addressing different needs in fluid management and blood pressure.
   - Common Side Effects:
    - Potassium loss (hypokalemia) can pose significant cardiovascular risks; monitoring electrolytes is crucial.
    - Dehydration may lead to fatigue, dizziness, or electrolyte imbalances if not monitored properly.
    - Dizziness can occur, especially upon standing (orthostatic hypotension).

Gastrointestinal System Drugs

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
   - Generic Suffix: (-prazole)
   - Representative Examples: Omeprazole, Pantoprazole
   - Mechanism of Action: They irreversibly inhibit the proton pump in parietal cells, significantly reducing gastric acid secretion.
   - Long-Term Use Side Effects:
    - Headaches and abdominal pain are commonly reported.
    - Potential deficiencies in magnesium and Vitamin $ext{B}_{12}$ arise, which may lead to new symptoms in prolonged use.
$ext{H}_2$ -Receptor Antagonists
   - Generic Suffix: (-tidine)
   - Representative Example: Famotidine
   - Mechanism of Action: These drugs block histamine at the H2 receptors of the stomach lining, decreasing acid production.
   - Side Effects:
    - Side effects are considered rare for this class, making them generally well-tolerated.
    - Potential issues include headache, diarrhea, or constipation if taken excessively.
GLP- $1$ Agonists
   - Generic Suffix: (-tide)
   - Representative Example: Liraglutide
   - Mechanism of Action: These agents augment glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppress glucagon release, leading to better glucose control.
   - Common Gastrointestinal (GI) Side Effects:
    - Nausea and vomiting may lead to non-compliance if doses are not gradually increased.
    - Diarrhea can be bothersome, impacting quality of life.
    - Constipation also presents a challenge for some patients.
Antacids and Mucosal Protectants
   - Specific Compound: Calcium carbonate
   - Mechanism of Action: Neutralizes stomach acid and raises stomach pH, providing quick relief from dyspeptic symptoms.
   - Reported Side Effects:
    - Constipation can result from calcium carbonate use if not balanced with other dietary fibers.
    - Rebound acidity may occur when stopping use, creating a cycle of dependence.

Respiratory System Drugs

$ext{Beta}_2$ -Agonists
   - Generic Suffix: (-terol)
   - Representative Examples: Albuterol, Salmeterol
   - Mechanism of Action: These agonists stimulate receptors in the airways leading to bronchodilation by relaxing the smooth muscle.
   - Common Side Effects:
    - Tremors, commonly seen due to beta stimulation in skeletal muscle.
    - Tachycardia (defined as a fast heart rate) can be a concern, especially in those with underlying heart conditions.
    - Anxiety is often reported, owing to stimulant effects.
Inhaled Corticosteroids
   - Generic Suffixes: (-sone, -ide)
   - Representative Example: Fluticasone
   - Mechanism of Action: These drugs reduce inflammation in the airways, improving asthma control and decreasing exacerbation frequency.
   - Known Side Effects:
    - Oral thrush (medically referred to as candidiasis) is a significant risk; rinsing the mouth after use is essential.
    - Throat irritation may deter proper use and adherence.
Anticholinergics
   - Generic Suffix: (-pium)
   - Representative Example: Ipratropium
   - Mechanism of Action: By blocking acetylcholine, these drugs cause bronchodilation and reduce mucus secretion.
   - Side Effects:
    - Dry mouth can be frustrating and affect oral hygiene.
    - Blurred vision occurs occasionally if the spray inadvertently contacts the eyes.
    - Urinary retention is a possible side effect, necessitating monitoring in at-risk populations.
Leukotriene Inhibitors
   - Generic Suffix: (-lukast)
   - Representative Example: Montelukast
   - Mechanism of Action: These medications block the action of leukotrienes, which are mediators of airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction.
   - Associated Complications:
    - Headaches are the most common complaint.
    - In some cases, neurobehavioral changes, such as mood swings or sleep disturbances, have been reported.

Eyes and Ears Drugs

Ophthalmic Beta-Blockers
   - Generic Suffix: (-olol)
   - Systemic Side Effects:
    - Despite topical application, they can cause systemic effects such as bradycardia, warranting close monitoring.
    - Exacerbation of asthma symptoms can occur, particularly in sensitive individuals.
Prostaglandin Analogs
   - Generic Suffix: (-oprost)
   - Representative Example: Latanoprost
   - Mechanism of Action: These drugs work by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor, reducing intraocular pressure in glaucoma treatment.
   - Side Effects:
    - Change in iris color (specifically darkening) occurs, which can be a cosmetic concern for some patients.
    - Increased eyelash growth is a noted side benefit, with potential for cosmetic enhancement.
    - Itchy eyes can decrease adherence and necessitate discussion with prescribers.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors
   - Generic Suffix: (-zolamide)
   - Mechanism of Action: Inhibiting carbonic anhydrase leads to decreased aqueous humor production, which can benefit glaucoma management.
   - Side Effects:
    - Burning or stinging sensation immediately upon application can deter some patients from use.
    - A bitter taste may occur, creating discomfort associated with administration.
Steroid Eye Drops
   - Generic Suffixes: (-pred, -one)
   - Complications of Long-Term Use:
    - Increased intraocular pressure is a significant concern, with potential to lead to glaucoma if not monitored regularly.
    - Development of cataracts has been noted, necessitating careful risk-benefit analysis prior to use.
Ototoxic Medications
   - Identified Drug Classes:
    - Aminoglycoside antibiotics, recognizable by the generic suffix (-micin), are known for their potential auditory toxicity.
    - Loop diuretics can also cause damage to the auditory apparatus.
   - Auditory Side Effects:
    - Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is often a precursor to hearing loss if the medication is not adjusted promptly.
    - Hearing loss can be permanent and highlights the importance of patient education on monitoring for symptoms.