Drug Classification and Naming

Drug Classification

Classification of drugs is essential due to the vast variety of drugs available.
Comparison to taxonomy in biology for classifying organisms.

Drugs can be categorized in several ways:
- By type of molecule.
- By clinical effects.
- By mechanism of action.
Importance of understanding therapeutic and pharmacological classifications.

Definition: Describes the drug's purpose or the physiological change it induces in the body.
Examples of therapeutic classifications for drugs affecting the heart and blood vessels:
- Anticoagulants: Prevent blood clots.
- Anti hyperlipidemics: Lower blood cholesterol levels.
- Antihypertensives: Lower blood pressure.
- Antidysrhythmics/Antiarrhythmics: Treat abnormal heartbeats.
Most categories begin with the prefix "anti" implying against a condition:
- Examples: Antipsychotics, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antiemetics, etc.
Other classifications without the prefix include:
- Decongestants: Relieve nasal congestion.
- Hallucinogens: Induce altered states of perception.
- Sedatives: Calm or induce sleep.
- Stimulants: Increase alertness and energy.

Definition: Describes the molecular mechanism by which a drug exerts its effect.
Focuses on how the drug interacts with biomolecules, predominantly proteins (e.g., enzymes, receptors).
Examples of pharmacological classifications related to the heart and blood vessels:
- Calcium Channel Blockers: Block calcium ion passage in heart muscle cells, leading to decreased heart contraction.
- ACE Inhibitors: Inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme reducing production of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation and lower blood pressure.
- Beta Blockers: Block the beta-adrenergic receptors for epinephrine (adrenaline), reducing heart rate and blood pressure.
A single drug can be described under both classifications depending on context. For example, a drug can be classified as a beta blocker (pharmacological) and as an antihypertensive (therapeutic).
Emphasis on needing a strong biochemical background to understand pharmacological classifications.

Confusion due to multiple names a drug may have:
- Chemical Name: Based on IUPAC nomenclature; unique to each drug.
- Example: "2-acetoxybenzoic acid" for aspirin.
- Generic Name: Simplified name assigned for easier communication.
- Assigned by the U.S. Adopted Name Council.
- Trade/Brand Name: Marketing name which can differ widely.
- Example: Aspirin marketed as Emperin; ibuprofen marketed as Advil or Motrin.
A drug may have one chemical and generic name but many brand names.
Importance of memorizing generic names as they are commonly used and recognized.
The identical active ingredient between brand and generic drugs ensures therapeutic equivalence.
Potential differences arise in bioavailability due to inactive ingredients, but often minimal.

Definition: Drugs with potential for addiction (physical or psychological) categorized as scheduled drugs.
Scheduling hierarchy based on abuse potential:
- Schedule I: High abuse potential, little to no therapeutic use (e.g., heroin).
- Schedule II: High dependence potential but some therapeutic applications (e.g., morphine, cocaine).
- Schedule III: Moderate abuse potential (e.g., ketamine, anabolic steroids).
- Schedule IV: Lower potential (e.g., Valium, Xanax).
- Schedule V: Very low potential; some available over the counter (e.g., cough medicines).
Notable exceptions: Some addictive substances (e.g., alcohol, caffeine) are not categorized as scheduled.
Discussion of potential propaganda influencing scheduling, such as for marijuana and LSD, which some argue do not merit Schedule I status.

Summary of classifications and naming procedures helps piece together knowledge of drugs and their differences.
More in-depth knowledge and discussions to follow in subsequent tutorials, including aspects of legal classifications, price differentials, and more.