A to Z medicine in pharmacology for bsc nursing
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A to Z pharmacology drugs BSc nursing classification by body system
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Here is a complete A to Z Pharmacology Drug Reference for BSc Nursing, organized by body system with drugs listed alphabetically within each category. This covers the entire BSc Nursing curriculum as per Lippincott's and Katzung's pharmacology.
A to Z Pharmacology - BSc Nursing
Drug Classification by Body System
1. CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM (CVS) DRUGS
A - Antihypertensives
| Drug | Class | Mechanism | Key Nursing Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amlodipine | Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB) | Blocks L-type Ca²+ channels in vascular smooth muscle | Monitor BP, ankle edema, headache |
| Atenolol | Beta-1 blocker (cardioselective) | Blocks β1 receptors → ↓HR, ↓CO | Do NOT stop abruptly; monitor pulse |
| Bisoprolol | Beta-1 blocker | Same as atenolol | CI in asthma |
| Captopril | ACE Inhibitor | Blocks ACE → ↓Angiotensin II → vasodilation | Monitor for dry cough, hyperkalemia |
| Carvedilol | Alpha + Beta blocker | Blocks α1, β1, β2 | Used in heart failure + HTN |
| Clonidine | Central α2 agonist | Stimulates α2 → ↓sympathetic outflow | Rebound HTN if stopped suddenly |
D - Diuretics
| Drug | Class | Mechanism | Key Nursing Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Furosemide | Loop diuretic | Inhibits Na-K-2Cl transporter in Loop of Henle | Monitor K+, urine output, dehydration |
| Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) | Thiazide diuretic | Inhibits NaCl reabsorption in DCT | Monitor hypokalemia, hyperuricemia |
| Spironolactone | Potassium-sparing | Aldosterone antagonist | Monitor hyperkalemia, gynecomastia |
| Amiloride | Potassium-sparing | Blocks ENaC channels in collecting duct | K+ sparing - avoid K+ supplements |
A - Antiarrhythmics (Vaughan-Williams Classification)
| Drug | Class | Mechanism | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adenosine | Unclassified | ↑K+ conductance → AV node block | SVT (drug of choice) |
| Amiodarone | Class III | Blocks K+ channels → prolongs refractory period | VT, AF, VF |
| Atropine | Anticholinergic | Blocks muscarinic receptors | Bradycardia, heart block |
| Digoxin | Cardiac glycoside | Inhibits Na/K ATPase; ↑vagal tone | Heart failure, AF rate control |
| Lidocaine | Class IB | Blocks Na+ channels | Ventricular arrhythmias |
| Metoprolol | Class II (Beta blocker) | ↓Automaticity, ↓conduction | SVT, AF rate control |
| Verapamil | Class IV (CCB) | Blocks Ca²+ channels in AV node | SVT, AF |
A - Anticoagulants / Antiplatelets
| Drug | Class | Mechanism | Key Nursing Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alteplase (tPA) | Thrombolytic | Activates plasminogen | Used in MI, stroke - monitor bleeding |
| Apixaban | NOAC (Xa inhibitor) | Inhibits Factor Xa | No routine INR monitoring needed |
| Aspirin | Antiplatelet | Irreversibly inhibits COX → ↓TXA2 | Give with food; monitor bleeding |
| Clopidogrel | Antiplatelet | ADP receptor (P2Y12) blocker | Used post-stent; monitor bleeding |
| Enoxaparin | LMWH | Activates antithrombin → inhibits Xa | Subcutaneous; monitor anti-Xa |
| Heparin (UFH) | Anticoagulant | Activates antithrombin | Monitor APTT; antidote = protamine sulfate |
| Warfarin | Vitamin K antagonist | Inhibits Vit K epoxide reductase | Monitor INR (target 2-3); antidote = Vit K |
S - Statins (Antilipidemics)
| Drug | Mechanism | Key Nursing Points |
|---|---|---|
| Atorvastatin | HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor | Monitor LFTs, myopathy (muscle pain) |
| Rosuvastatin | HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor | Take at any time; avoid in pregnancy |
| Simvastatin | HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor | Avoid grapefruit juice |
H - Heart Failure Drugs
| Drug | Class | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Digoxin | Cardiac glycoside | ↑myocardial contractility, ↓HR |
| Dobutamine | Inotrope (β1 agonist) | ↑CO in acute heart failure |
| Enalapril | ACE inhibitor | ↓afterload, ↓preload |
| Sacubitril/Valsartan | ARNI | Inhibits neprilysin + ARB |
2. CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (CNS) DRUGS
A - Analgesics (Pain Relief)
| Drug | Class | Mechanism | Key Nursing Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aspirin | NSAID | Inhibits COX-1 & COX-2 | Avoid in children (Reye's syndrome) |
| Codeine | Opioid (weak) | Mu receptor agonist | Can cause constipation, respiratory depression |
| Diclofenac | NSAID | COX-1 & COX-2 inhibitor | Take with food; monitor renal function |
| Fentanyl | Opioid (strong) | Mu receptor agonist | 100x more potent than morphine; risk of OD |
| Ibuprofen | NSAID | COX inhibitor | Avoid in peptic ulcer, renal failure |
| Ketorolac | NSAID (IV/IM) | COX inhibitor | Short-term use only (max 5 days) |
| Morphine | Opioid | Mu > Kappa receptor agonist | Antidote = Naloxone; causes constipation |
| Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) | Non-opioid | Central COX inhibitor | Antidote = N-acetylcysteine; avoid in liver disease |
| Tramadol | Opioid + SNRI | Mu agonist + NE/5HT reuptake inhibitor | Lower addiction potential; seizure risk |
A - Anticonvulsants / Antiepileptics
| Drug | Mechanism | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Carbamazepine | Na+ channel blocker | Focal seizures, trigeminal neuralgia |
| Clonazepam | GABA-A enhancer (BZD) | Absence, myoclonic seizures |
| Diazepam | GABA-A enhancer | Status epilepticus (IV) |
| Levetiracetam | SV2A binding | Broad spectrum |
| Phenobarbitone | GABA-A enhancer | Neonatal seizures, status epilepticus |
| Phenytoin | Na+ channel blocker | Tonic-clonic, focal seizures; narrow TI |
| Sodium Valproate | Multiple mechanisms | Broad spectrum; CI in pregnancy (teratogenic) |
| Topiramate | Na+ channel, GABA | Broad spectrum, migraine prophylaxis |
A - Antidepressants / Anxiolytics
| Drug | Class | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Alprazolam | Benzodiazepine | GABA-A positive allosteric modulator |
| Amitriptyline | TCA | NE + 5HT reuptake inhibitor |
| Buspirone | 5HT1A agonist | Anxiolytic (non-BZD, non-sedating) |
| Citalopram | SSRI | Selective 5HT reuptake inhibitor |
| Diazepam | Benzodiazepine | GABA-A enhancer |
| Escitalopram | SSRI | Selective 5HT reuptake inhibitor |
| Fluoxetine | SSRI | 5HT reuptake inhibitor; long half-life |
| Sertraline | SSRI | Safe in pregnancy, elderly |
| Venlafaxine | SNRI | NE + 5HT reuptake inhibitor |
A - Antipsychotics
| Drug | Class | Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| Chlorpromazine | Typical (1st gen) | D2 blocker; causes EPS, sedation |
| Clozapine | Atypical (2nd gen) | D4/5HT blocker; risk of agranulocytosis |
| Haloperidol | Typical | Strong D2 blocker; high EPS risk |
| Olanzapine | Atypical | Weight gain, metabolic syndrome |
| Quetiapine | Atypical | Sedation; used in bipolar |
| Risperidone | Atypical | D2 + 5HT2A; moderate EPS |
A - Anti-Parkinsonian Drugs
| Drug | Mechanism | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Amantadine | Dopamine releaser + NMDA antagonist | Early Parkinson's |
| Biperiden | Anticholinergic | Tremor-dominant type |
| Bromocriptine | D2 agonist | Also used in prolactinoma, acromegaly |
| Carbidopa/Levodopa | Dopamine precursor | Gold standard; carbidopa prevents peripheral conversion |
| Pramipexole | D3 agonist | Restless leg syndrome, Parkinson's |
| Ropinirole | D2/D3 agonist | Parkinson's, RLS |
| Selegiline | MAO-B inhibitor | ↓Dopamine breakdown |
S - Sedatives / Hypnotics / Anesthetics
| Drug | Class | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Diazepam | BZD | Anxiolytic, muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant |
| Ketamine | Dissociative anesthetic | NMDA antagonist; causes dissociation |
| Midazolam | BZD | Short-acting; pre-op sedation |
| Propofol | IV anesthetic | "Milk of amnesia"; rapid onset/offset |
| Thiopental | Barbiturate | Ultra-short-acting IV anesthetic |
| Zolpidem | Z-drug (BZD-like) | Insomnia; acts on BZD site |
3. AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM DRUGS
Sympathomimetics (Adrenergic Agonists)
| Drug | Receptors | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Adrenaline (Epinephrine) | α1, β1, β2 | Anaphylaxis, cardiac arrest |
| Dobutamine | β1 | Acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock |
| Dopamine | D1, β1, α1 (dose-dependent) | Shock, acute renal failure |
| Noradrenaline (Norepinephrine) | α1 > β1 | Septic shock (vasopressor) |
| Salbutamol | β2 | Bronchospasm, asthma |
Sympatholytics (Adrenergic Blockers)
| Drug | Type | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Atenolol | β1 blocker | HTN, angina |
| Prazosin | α1 blocker | HTN, BPH |
| Propranolol | Non-selective β blocker | HTN, thyrotoxicosis, migraine prophylaxis |
| Tamsulosin | α1A blocker | BPH (urinary symptoms) |
Parasympathomimetics (Cholinergic Agonists)
| Drug | Type | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Bethanechol | Direct (M agonist) | Urinary retention, post-op ileus |
| Neostigmine | Indirect (AChE inhibitor) | Myasthenia gravis, reversal of NMB |
| Pilocarpine | Direct (M agonist) | Glaucoma (eye drops), dry mouth |
| Pyridostigmine | AChE inhibitor | Myasthenia gravis |
Parasympatholytics (Anticholinergics)
| Drug | Use |
|---|---|
| Atropine | Bradycardia, organophosphate poisoning, pre-op |
| Glycopyrrolate | Reduces secretions pre-op, peptic ulcer |
| Hyoscine (Scopolamine) | Motion sickness, nausea |
| Ipratropium | COPD bronchodilator |
| Oxybutynin | Overactive bladder |
4. RESPIRATORY SYSTEM DRUGS
| Drug | Class | Mechanism | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aminophylline | Methylxanthine | PDE inhibitor → ↑cAMP | Severe asthma (IV) |
| Beclomethasone | Inhaled corticosteroid | Anti-inflammatory | Asthma maintenance |
| Budesonide | Inhaled corticosteroid | Anti-inflammatory | Asthma, COPD |
| Cetirizine | H1 antihistamine (2nd gen) | H1 blocker (non-sedating) | Allergic rhinitis, urticaria |
| Codeine | Opioid antitussive | Suppresses cough centre | Dry cough |
| Dextromethorphan | NMDA antagonist | Cough suppressant | Non-prescription cough syrup |
| Formoterol | LABA | β2 agonist (long-acting) | Asthma + COPD maintenance |
| Fluticasone | Inhaled corticosteroid | Anti-inflammatory | Asthma, COPD |
| Guaifenesin | Expectorant | Reduces mucus viscosity | Productive cough |
| Ipratropium | SAMA | Anticholinergic bronchodilator | COPD |
| Loratadine | H1 antihistamine (2nd gen) | Non-sedating H1 blocker | Allergic rhinitis |
| Montelukast | Leukotriene receptor antagonist | Blocks cysLT1 receptor | Asthma, allergic rhinitis |
| Prednisolone | Systemic corticosteroid | Anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressant | Acute severe asthma |
| Salbutamol (Albuterol) | SABA | β2 agonist (short-acting) | Acute bronchospasm (rescue) |
| Salmeterol | LABA | β2 agonist (long-acting) | Asthma + COPD maintenance |
| Tiotropium | LAMA | Anticholinergic bronchodilator | COPD (once daily) |
5. GASTROINTESTINAL (GI) SYSTEM DRUGS
| Drug | Class | Mechanism | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminium hydroxide | Antacid | Neutralizes gastric acid | Peptic ulcer, GERD |
| Bisacodyl | Stimulant laxative | Stimulates enteric neurons | Constipation |
| Cholestyramine | Bile acid sequestrant | Binds bile acids in gut | Hypercholesterolemia, diarrhea |
| Domperidone | Antiemetic / Prokinetic | D2 blocker (peripheral) | Nausea, gastroparesis |
| Esomeprazole | PPI | Inhibits H+/K+ ATPase (proton pump) | GERD, peptic ulcer |
| Lactulose | Osmotic laxative | Not absorbed; ↑osmotic pressure | Constipation, hepatic encephalopathy |
| Loperamide | Antidiarrheal | Opioid (mu agonist) in gut | Diarrhea (not infectious) |
| Metoclopramide | Prokinetic / Antiemetic | D2 + 5HT4 modulator | GERD, nausea, vomiting |
| Omeprazole | PPI | H+/K+ ATPase inhibitor | Most common for peptic ulcer/GERD |
| Ondansetron | Antiemetic | 5HT3 receptor blocker | Post-op/chemotherapy nausea |
| Pantoprazole | PPI | H+/K+ ATPase inhibitor | GERD, PUD, Zollinger-Ellison |
| Promethazine | Antihistamine / Antiemetic | H1 + D2 blocker | Nausea, motion sickness |
| Ranitidine | H2 blocker | Blocks H2 receptors on parietal cells | Peptic ulcer, GERD (less used now) |
| Sucralfate | Mucosal protectant | Forms gel over ulcer crater | Peptic ulcer |
6. ENDOCRINE / METABOLIC DRUGS
Antidiabetic Drugs
| Drug | Class | Mechanism | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acarbose | Alpha-glucosidase inhibitor | Slows carb digestion | Take with first bite of meal; GI side effects |
| Canagliflozin | SGLT2 inhibitor | ↑glucosuria | Risk UTI, DKA; cardioprotective |
| Dapagliflozin | SGLT2 inhibitor | ↑glucosuria | Heart failure benefit |
| Empagliflozin | SGLT2 inhibitor | ↑glucosuria | Best CV outcome data |
| Glibenclamide | Sulfonylurea | ↑Insulin secretion (ATP-K channel blocker) | Risk hypoglycemia; give before meals |
| Glipizide | Sulfonylurea | ↑Insulin secretion | Short-acting |
| Insulin (Regular) | Insulin | Activates insulin receptor → glucose uptake | Onset 30 min; peak 2-3 hrs |
| Insulin glargine | Long-acting insulin | Basal insulin; no peak | Give at same time daily |
| Liraglutide | GLP-1 agonist | ↑insulin (glucose-dependent), ↓glucagon | Weight loss; nausea common |
| Metformin | Biguanide | Activates AMPK → ↓hepatic gluconeogenesis | Drug of choice for T2DM; GI upset; lactic acidosis (rare) |
| Sitagliptin | DPP-4 inhibitor | ↑GLP-1 levels | Weight-neutral; well tolerated |
Thyroid Drugs
| Drug | Class | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Carbimazole | Antithyroid | Hyperthyroidism (Graves', goiter) |
| Levothyroxine (T4) | Thyroid hormone | Hypothyroidism |
| Propylthiouracil (PTU) | Antithyroid | Hyperthyroidism; preferred in pregnancy (1st trimester) |
Corticosteroids
| Drug | Type | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Dexamethasone | Synthetic glucocorticoid | Cerebral edema, croup, anti-inflammatory |
| Fludrocortisone | Mineralocorticoid | Addison's disease |
| Hydrocortisone | Glucocorticoid + mineralocorticoid | Adrenal crisis, anti-inflammatory |
| Methylprednisolone | Glucocorticoid | Multiple sclerosis relapse, asthma |
| Prednisolone | Glucocorticoid | Asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, IBD |
7. ANTIMICROBIAL DRUGS (ANTIBIOTICS A to Z)
Penicillins
| Drug | Spectrum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Amoxicillin | Broad (gram+ & gram-) | Most widely used; oral; add clavulanate for resistance |
| Ampicillin | Broad | IV/IM; enterococcal infections |
| Benzyl Penicillin (Pen G) | Narrow (gram+) | IV only; syphilis, meningitis, rheumatic fever |
| Cloxacillin | Narrow (anti-staph) | Staphylococcal infections (MSSA) |
| Piperacillin | Extended (+ Pseudomonas) | Combined with tazobactam |
Cephalosporins
| Generation | Drug | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1st gen | Cephalexin, Cefazolin | Gram+ coverage; surgical prophylaxis |
| 2nd gen | Cefuroxime, Cefaclor | More gram- coverage |
| 3rd gen | Ceftriaxone, Cefotaxime, Ceftazidime | CNS infections, serious gram- |
| 4th gen | Cefepime | Pseudomonas, nosocomial infections |
| 5th gen | Ceftaroline | MRSA coverage |
Macrolides
| Drug | Use |
|---|---|
| Azithromycin | Atypical pneumonia, STIs, otitis media |
| Clarithromycin | H. pylori triple therapy, atypical pneumonia |
| Erythromycin | Strep pharyngitis, diphtheria; prokinetic (low dose) |
Fluoroquinolones
| Drug | Use |
|---|---|
| Ciprofloxacin | UTI, GI infections, anthrax |
| Levofloxacin | Pneumonia, UTI, TB (reserve) |
| Moxifloxacin | Respiratory, intraocular infections |
| Norfloxacin | UTI (oral) |
Aminoglycosides
| Drug | Use | Key Toxicity |
|---|---|---|
| Amikacin | Gram- serious infections | Nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity |
| Gentamicin | Gram- (endocarditis synergy) | Nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity |
| Streptomycin | TB (2nd line), plague | Ototoxicity |
| Tobramycin | Gram-, Pseudomonas | Nephrotoxicity |
Tetracyclines
| Drug | Use |
|---|---|
| Doxycycline | Malaria prophylaxis, Lyme, Chlamydia, acne |
| Tetracycline | H. pylori (part of quadruple therapy), acne |
Avoid in children <8 years and pregnancy (stains teeth, inhibits bone growth)
Other Key Antibiotics
| Drug | Class | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Chloramphenicol | Phenicol | Typhoid (developing countries), meningitis; causes aplastic anemia |
| Clindamycin | Lincosamide | Anaerobes, MRSA (skin), dental infections |
| Cotrimoxazole (TMP-SMX) | Sulfonamide + DHFR inhibitor | UTI, PCP (HIV), nocardia |
| Linezolid | Oxazolidinone | MRSA, VRE |
| Metronidazole | Nitroimidazole | Anaerobes, protozoal (Giardia, Trichomonas, C. diff) |
| Nitrofurantoin | Nitrofuran | Uncomplicated UTI (lower tract only) |
| Rifampicin | Rifamycin | TB (RIPE), leprosy; turns urine orange |
| Vancomycin | Glycopeptide | MRSA, C. difficile (oral); monitor trough levels |
Antitubercular Drugs (RIPE Regimen)
| Drug | Short Code | Side Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Rifampicin | R | Orange urine/secretions, hepatotoxicity |
| Isoniazid | I | Peripheral neuropathy (give Pyridoxine/Vit B6) |
| Pyrazinamide | P | Hyperuricemia, hepatotoxicity |
| Ethambutol | E | Optic neuritis (monitor color vision) |
8. ANTIFUNGAL DRUGS
| Drug | Class | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Amphotericin B | Polyene | Severe systemic fungal infections; nephrotoxic |
| Clotrimazole | Azole (topical) | Candida (skin, vaginal), dermatophytes |
| Fluconazole | Azole (oral/IV) | Candida, Cryptococcal meningitis (HIV) |
| Griseofulvin | Allylamine | Dermatophyte infections (ringworm, tinea) |
| Itraconazole | Azole | Aspergillosis, systemic fungals |
| Ketoconazole | Azole (topical) | Dandruff, tinea versicolor |
| Nystatin | Polyene (topical) | Oral/vaginal candidiasis |
| Terbinafine | Allylamine | Dermatophyte (onychomycosis - nail fungus) |
| Voriconazole | Triazole | Invasive Aspergillus, Candida |
9. ANTIVIRAL DRUGS
| Drug | Use | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Acyclovir | Herpes simplex, Herpes zoster | Inhibits viral DNA polymerase (needs thymidine kinase activation) |
| Efavirenz | HIV (NNRTI) | Non-competitive RT inhibitor |
| Ganciclovir | CMV retinitis (immunocompromised) | Viral DNA polymerase inhibitor |
| Lamivudine (3TC) | HIV + Hepatitis B | NRTI |
| Lopinavir/Ritonavir | HIV | Protease inhibitor |
| Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) | Influenza A & B | Neuraminidase inhibitor |
| Ribavirin | Hepatitis C (with interferon), RSV | Guanosine analogue |
| Tenofovir (TDF) | HIV + Hepatitis B | NRTI |
| Zidovudine (AZT) | HIV (first approved ARV) | NRTI |
10. ANTIPARASITIC DRUGS
| Drug | Parasite Target | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Albendazole | Roundworms, tapeworms, hydatid | Broad-spectrum anthelmintic |
| Artesunate | Plasmodium (malaria) | IV form for severe malaria |
| Chloroquine | P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae | Resistance common for P. falciparum |
| Ivermectin | Onchocerciasis, strongyloidosis, scabies | Also used in COVID (controversial) |
| Mebendazole | Roundworm, pinworm, hookworm | Blocks tubulin polymerization |
| Metronidazole | Giardia, Trichomonas, Entamoeba | Avoid alcohol (disulfiram reaction) |
| Primaquine | P. vivax (hypnozoites) | Causes hemolysis in G6PD deficiency |
| Pyrantel pamoate | Pinworm, hookworm | OTC; single dose |
| Quinine | Severe P. falciparum | IV; causes cinchonism |
11. RENAL / UROLOGICAL DRUGS
| Drug | Class | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Allopurinol | Xanthine oxidase inhibitor | Gout (chronic), hyperuricemia |
| Amiloride | K-sparing diuretic | Hypokalemia prevention |
| Colchicine | Antimitotic | Acute gout attack |
| Finasteride | 5α-reductase inhibitor | BPH, male pattern baldness |
| Furosemide | Loop diuretic | Pulmonary edema, acute renal failure |
| Mannitol | Osmotic diuretic | Cerebral edema, raised ICP, oliguric ARF |
| Probenecid | Uricosuric | Chronic gout (↑uric acid excretion) |
| Sildenafil | PDE5 inhibitor | Erectile dysfunction, pulmonary HTN |
| Tamsulosin | α1A blocker | BPH (improves urinary flow) |
12. REPRODUCTIVE / OBSTETRIC DRUGS
| Drug | Class | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Bromocriptine | D2 agonist | Hyperprolactinemia, inhibit lactation |
| Cabergoline | D2 agonist | Prolactinoma, hyperprolactinemia |
| Clomiphene | SERM (anti-estrogen) | Ovulation induction, infertility |
| Dinoprostone (PGE2) | Prostaglandin | Cervical ripening, labor induction |
| Ergometrine | Ergot alkaloid | Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) |
| Leuprolide | GnRH agonist | Endometriosis, prostate cancer |
| Mifepristone (RU-486) | Progesterone antagonist | Medical abortion |
| Misoprostol (PGE1) | Prostaglandin | PPH, cervical ripening, abortion |
| Oxytocin | Neurohypophyseal hormone | Labor induction, PPH treatment |
| Tocolytics (Nifedipine, Ritodrine) | CCB / β2 agonist | Arrest premature labor |
13. MUSCULOSKELETAL / ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS
| Drug | Class | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Baclofen | GABA-B agonist | Muscle spasm, spasticity |
| Celecoxib | Selective COX-2 inhibitor | Arthritis (less GI risk than NSAIDs) |
| Colchicine | Antimitotic | Acute gout, familial Mediterranean fever |
| Dantrolene | Ryanodine receptor antagonist | Malignant hyperthermia, muscle spasticity |
| Hydroxychloroquine | DMARD | Rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, malaria |
| Methotrexate | DMARD / Antimetabolite | Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, cancer |
| Succinylcholine | Depolarizing NMB | Rapid sequence intubation |
| Vecuronium | Non-depolarizing NMB | Surgical muscle relaxation |
14. HEMATOLOGICAL DRUGS
| Drug | Class | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Cyanocobalamin (B12) | Vitamin | Megaloblastic / pernicious anemia |
| Erythropoietin (EPO) | Hematopoietic growth factor | Anemia in CKD |
| Ferrous sulfate | Iron supplement | Iron-deficiency anemia |
| Folic acid | Vitamin B9 | Megaloblastic anemia, neural tube defect prevention |
| Filgrastim (G-CSF) | Colony-stimulating factor | Neutropenia (post-chemotherapy) |
| Phytomenadione (Vitamin K1) | Coagulation factor | Warfarin overdose, neonatal hemorrhage |
| Protamine sulfate | Heparin antidote | Heparin overdose reversal |
| Tranexamic acid | Antifibrinolytic | PPH, trauma bleeding |
15. IMMUNOSUPPRESSANTS / ONCOLOGY DRUGS
| Drug | Class | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Azathioprine | Purine antimetabolite | Transplant rejection, autoimmune disease |
| Ciclosporin (Cyclosporine) | Calcineurin inhibitor | Organ transplantation, rheumatoid arthritis |
| Doxorubicin | Anthracycline | Breast cancer, leukemia; cardiotoxic |
| Methotrexate | Antimetabolite | Cancer, RA, psoriasis |
| Paclitaxel | Taxane | Breast, ovarian, lung cancer |
| Prednisolone | Corticosteroid | Immunosuppression, chemotherapy protocols |
| Tacrolimus | Calcineurin inhibitor | Transplantation (more potent than ciclosporin) |
16. EYE / OPHTHALMIC DRUGS
| Drug | Class | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Acetazolamide | Carbonic anhydrase inhibitor | Glaucoma (↓aqueous humor) |
| Atropine (eye drops) | Anticholinergic | Mydriasis (pupil dilation) for fundus exam |
| Latanoprost | Prostaglandin analogue | Open-angle glaucoma (↓IOP) |
| Pilocarpine (eye drops) | Miotic (M agonist) | Glaucoma (↓IOP, miosis) |
| Timolol (eye drops) | Beta blocker | Glaucoma (↓aqueous humor production) |
17. DERMATOLOGICAL DRUGS
| Drug | Class | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Benzoyl peroxide | Keratolytic / Antibacterial | Acne |
| Calamine lotion | Zinc preparation | Pruritus, insect bites |
| Clobetasol | Potent topical steroid | Severe psoriasis, eczema |
| Isotretinoin | Retinoid | Severe nodulocystic acne; teratogenic |
| Permethrin | Pyrethroid | Scabies, head lice |
| Salicylic acid | Keratolytic | Warts, psoriasis, acne |
18. IMPORTANT ANTIDOTES (Exam Must-Know)
| Drug / Poison | Antidote |
|---|---|
| Heparin | Protamine sulfate |
| Warfarin | Vitamin K (phytomenadione) |
| Opioid overdose | Naloxone |
| Benzodiazepine overdose | Flumazenil |
| Paracetamol overdose | N-acetylcysteine (NAC) |
| Organophosphate poisoning | Atropine + Pralidoxime |
| Iron overdose | Deferoxamine |
| Digoxin toxicity | Digoxin-specific Fab antibodies |
| Cyanide poisoning | Hydroxocobalamin / Sodium thiosulfate |
| Methanol / Ethylene glycol | Fomepizole / Ethanol |
| Carbon monoxide | 100% Oxygen |
| Methotrexate overdose | Folinic acid (Leucovorin) |
19. DRUG INTERACTIONS - HIGH YIELD FOR NURSING
| Combination | Risk | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin + NSAIDs | ↑Bleeding | INR elevated, GI bleed |
| ACE inhibitor + K-sparing diuretics | Hyperkalemia | Additive K+ retention |
| MAOIs + SSRIs | Serotonin syndrome | Excess 5HT |
| Metformin + contrast dye | Lactic acidosis | Hold 48 hrs before/after |
| Tetracycline + Ca2+/Mg2+/Fe2+ | ↓Absorption | Chelation - avoid with dairy |
| Digoxin + Hypokalemia | Digoxin toxicity | K+ competes with digoxin at receptor |
| Aminoglycoside + Furosemide | Ototoxicity | Additive inner ear toxicity |
KEY PHARMACOLOGY CONCEPTS (Nursing Focus)
Routes of Administration
- PO (oral) - most common
- IV - fastest onset; risk of errors
- IM - deltoid (adults), vastus lateralis (infants)
- SC - insulin, heparin, vaccines
- Sublingual - GTN (nitroglycerin) for angina
- Transdermal - fentanyl patch, nicotine patch
- Inhalation - salbutamol, corticosteroids
Drug Elimination
| Route | Examples |
|---|---|
| Hepatic (CYP450) | Warfarin, phenytoin, diazepam, most drugs |
| Renal | Aminoglycosides, metformin, lithium |
| Both | Ciprofloxacin, metronidazole |
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM)
Drugs requiring blood level monitoring:
- Digoxin - therapeutic range 0.5-2 ng/mL
- Phenytoin - 10-20 mcg/mL
- Lithium - 0.6-1.2 mEq/L
- Vancomycin - trough 10-20 mcg/mL
- Aminoglycosides - trough < 2 mcg/mL
- Carbamazepine - 4-12 mcg/mL
- Warfarin - INR 2-3 (not drug level, but coag parameter)
PREGNANCY DRUG SAFETY (Old FDA Categories)
| Category | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| A | Proven safe | Folic acid, levothyroxine (at correct dose) |
| B | Probably safe (no human risk proven) | Metformin, amoxicillin, paracetamol |
| C | Risk cannot be ruled out | Aspirin (low dose), codeine |
| D | Evidence of risk, but benefit may outweigh | Phenytoin, tetracycline, ACE inhibitors |
| X | Contraindicated in pregnancy | Warfarin, isotretinoin, methotrexate, thalidomide |
QUICK SUFFIX GUIDE (Identify Drug Class by Name)
| Suffix | Drug Class | Example |
|---|---|---|
| -olol | Beta blockers | Atenolol, propranolol |
| -pril | ACE inhibitors | Captopril, enalapril |
| -sartan | ARBs | Losartan, valsartan |
| -dipine | CCBs (dihydropyridine) | Amlodipine, nifedipine |
| -statin | HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors | Atorvastatin, simvastatin |
| -azepam / -azolam | Benzodiazepines | Diazepam, midazolam |
| -oxacin | Fluoroquinolones | Ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin |
| -cillin | Penicillins | Amoxicillin, ampicillin |
| -mycin / -micin | Aminoglycosides or Macrolides | Gentamicin, erythromycin |
| -zole | Azole antifungals or PPIs | Fluconazole, omeprazole |
| -mab | Monoclonal antibodies | Rituximab, trastuzumab |
| -tinib | Tyrosine kinase inhibitors | Imatinib, gefitinib |
| -prazole | Proton pump inhibitors | Omeprazole, pantoprazole |
| -setron | 5HT3 antagonists (antiemetics) | Ondansetron, granisetron |
| -gliptin | DPP-4 inhibitors | Sitagliptin, vildagliptin |
| -flozin | SGLT2 inhibitors | Dapagliflozin, empagliflozin |
This comprehensive reference covers 18 body systems with drugs arranged alphabetically within each class - the complete BSc Nursing pharmacology curriculum. Key references: Lippincott Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology and Katzung's Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 16th Ed.
Study tips for exams:
- Learn the drug suffix - it tells you the class instantly
- For each drug, know: class, mechanism, one main use, one key side effect, one nursing consideration
- Memorize all antidotes - very commonly tested
- Know which drugs require TDM (therapeutic drug monitoring)
- Know pregnancy category X drugs - always high-yield in nursing exams
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