Drug Definitions PDF

Appendix A: Definitions of Selected Drug Categories A. General Terminology **Agonist:** a drug that reacts with and [activates] physiological receptors and induces the associated biologic response (morphine --opioid receptor agonist). **Antagonist:** a drug that reacts asymptomatically with phys...

Appendix A: Definitions of Selected Drug Categories A. General Terminology **Agonist:** a drug that reacts with and [activates] physiological receptors and induces the associated biologic response (morphine --opioid receptor agonist). **Antagonist:** a drug that reacts asymptomatically with physiological receptors and [prevents] their endogenous activation (naloxone --opioid receptor antagonist). **Enzyme:** a molecule that [catalyzes] a chemical reaction. **Potentiator**: an adjunctive drug that enhances the action of a primary drug, the total response being greater than the sum of the individual actions (hexafluorenium). **Specific:** a drug special adapted in its indicated use, usually because of a functional relationship between drug mechanism and disease pathophysiology. **Suppressant:** a drug that [inhibits] the progress of a disease but does not cure it. **Systemically Acting Drug:** a drug administered so as to reach systemic circulation, from which the drug diffuses into all tissues, including the site of the therapeutic action. **Topically Acting Drug:** a drug applied to the body surface for [local] therapeutic action. **Trace Element:** a chemical element required by living organisms in [minute] amounts. A. Drugs acting through Physical Mechanisms **Abradant**: an agent that removes an external layer, such as dental plaque (pumice). **Absorbent:** a drug that takes up other chemicals into its substance; it is used to reduce the free availability of toxic chemicals (polycarbophil, gastrointestinal absorbent). **Adsorbent:** a drug that binds other chemicals onto its [surface]; it is used to reduce the free availability of toxic chemicals (kaolin). **Protectant:** a topical drug that provides a physical barrier to the environment (zinc gelatin). B. Drugs acting through Direct Chemical Interaction **Acidifier, Systemic:** a drug that [lowers the internal body pH;] it is useful in restoring normal pH in patients with systemic alkalosis (ammonium chloride). **Acidifier, Urinary:** a drug that [lowers the pH] of the renal filtrate and urine (sodium dihydrogen phosphate). **Alkalinizer, Systemic:** a drug that [raises the internal body pH]; it is useful in restoring normal pH in patients with systemic acidosis (sodium bicarbonate). **Antacid:** a drug that [neutralizes] excess gastric acid (calcium carbonate). **Chelating Agent:** a complexing agent that binds metal ions into stable ring structures (chelates); it is useful in treating poisoning (edetate calcium disodium). **Irritant, Local:** a drug that reacts weakly and non-specifically with biologic tissue; it is used topically to induce a [mild inflammatory] response (camphor). **Metal Complexing Agent:** a drug that binds metal ions; it is useful in treating metal poisoning. C. Drugs Acting on the Autonomic Nervous System -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SYMPATHETIC/ADRENERGIC DRUGS PARASYMPATHETIC/CHOLINERGIC DRUGS **Adrenergic:** a drug that [activates] organs innervated by the [sympathetic] nervous system; a [sympathomimetic] drug (epinephrine). **Cholinergic:** a drug that activates organs innervated by the [parasympathetic] nervous system; a [parasympathomimetic] drug (neostigmine) **Sympathomimetic:** a drug that [activates] organs innervated by the [sympathetic] nervous system; an [adrenergic] drug. **Parasympathomimetic:** a drug that [activates] organs innervated by the [parasympathetic] nervous system; a [cholinergic] drug (neostigmine). Alpha Receptor Agonist: a drug that activates [sympathetic] nervous system alpha receptors, for example, to induce [vasoconstriction] (norepinephrine). Anticholinesterase antidote: a drug that reactivates cholinesterase enzyme after its inactivation by [organophosphate poisons] (pralidoxime). **Beta receptor agonist**: a drug that activates sympathetic nervous system beta receptors, for example, to induce bronchodilation (isoproterenol). **Anticholinergic:** a drug that [inhibits] response to [parasympathetic] nerve impulses and [cholinergic] drugs; a [parasympatholytic] drug (ipratropium bromide). **Antiadrenergic:** a drug that inhibits response to sympathetic nerve impulses and adrenergic drugs; a [sympatholytic] drug (metoprolol). **Parasympatholytic**: a drug that [inhibits] response to [parasympathetic] nerve impulses and to parasympathomimetic drugs; an [anticholinergic] drug (atropine). **Sympatholytic:** a drug that [inhibits] response to [sympathetic] nerve impulses and to sympathomimetic drugs; an [antiadrenergic] drug. Antimuscarinic: an anticholinergic drug that inhibits symptoms mediated by acetylcholine receptors of visceral organs (muscarinic receptors) (atropine). Alpha Receptor Antagonist: a drug that reacts asymptomatically with sympathetic nervous system alpha receptors and prevents their endogenous activation, for example, to induce [vasodilation] (phentolamine). Neuromuscular Blocking Agent: a drug that [paralyzes skeletal muscles] by preventing transmission of neural impulses to them (succinylcholine). Beta receptor antagonist: a drug that reacts asymptomatically with sympathetic nervous system beta receptors and prevents their endogenous activation, for example, to oppose sympathetic stimulation of the heart (atenolol). Catecholamine Synthesis Inhibitor: a drug that inhibits the biosynthesis of catecholamine neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine (metyrosine). -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Antiglaucoma Agent: a drug that lowers intraocular fluid pressure; it is used to treat glaucoma (isofluorophate). Antimigraine Agent: a drug that reduces incidence or severity of migraine vascular headaches (sumatriptan). Antispasmodic: a drug that inhibits the motility of visceral smooth muscles (atropine). Belladonna Alkaloid: a plant principle derived from *Atropa belladonna* and related species, with anticholinergic action (atropine). Cycloplegic: an anticholinergic drug used topically in the eye to induce [paralysis of accommodation] (cycloplegia) and [dilation] of the pupil (cyclopentolate). Decongestant, Nasal: an adrenergic drug used orally or topically to induce [vasoconstriction] in nasal passages (phenylephrine HCl). Dopamine Receptor Agonist: a drug that activates dopamine receptors, for example, to inhibit anterior pituitary secretion of prolactin (bromocriptine). Ergot Alkaloid: a plant principle derived from the fungus *Claviceps purpurea* grown on rye or other grains (ergonovine). Miotic: a cholinergic drug used topically in the eye to induce [constriction of the pupil] (miosis) (pilocarpine). Muscle Relaxant, Skeletal: a drug that inhibits the contraction of voluntary muscles (cyclobenzaprine) Muscle Relaxant, Smooth: a drug that inhibits the contraction of visceral smooth muscles (aminophylline). Mydriatic: an adrenergic drug used topically in the eye to induce [dilation of the pupil] (mydriasis) (phenylephrine). Rauwolfia Alkaloid: a plant principle derived from *Rauwolfia serpentine* and related species, with [antihypertensive and antipsychotic actions] (reserpine). Smoking Deterrent: a drug that serves to minimize the desire to smoke. Uterine Contractant: an obstetric drug used after placenta delivery to [induce sustained uterine contraction] to reduce bleeding (methylergonovine). Uterine Contraction Inhibitor: a drug that inhibits uterine muscle contraction; it is [used in preterm labor] to prolong gestation (ritodrine). Vasoconstrictor: a drug that narrows arterioles, usually to [elevate blood pressure]; an adrenergic drug administered to constrict arterioles and elevate arterial blood pressure (norepinephrine). Synonyms: Vasopressor Vasodilator, Coronary: a drug that [expands blood vessels in the heart] and improves coronary blood flow; it is useful in treating angina pectoris; an antianginal drug (nitroglycerin). Vasodilator, Peripheral: a drug that expands peripheral blood vessels and improves blood flow to the [extremities of the body] (minoxidil). D. Drugs Acting on the Central Nervous System Alcohol-abuse deterrent: a drug that alters physiology so that unpleasant symptoms follow ingestion of ethanol-containing products (disulfiram). Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Inhibitor: a drug that blocks the conversion of acetaldehyde to acetic acid by aldehyde dehydrogenase (disulfiram). Analeptic: a CNS stimulant, sometimes used to [stimulate respiration] during severe CNS depression (modafinil). **Anorexiant:** a drug that acts on the brain to [reduce the appetite.] **Anorexic:** a drug that [suppresses appetite], usually by elevating mood (phentermine). **Anticonvulsant:** an antiepileptic drug administered prophylactically to prevent seizures, or a drug that [arrests convulsions] by inducing general CNS depression (phenytoin). **Antidepressant:** a centrally acting drug that induces mood elevation, useful in treating mental depression (amitriptyline). Antineuritic: a drug that aids in control of bed-wetting (enuresis) (imipramine). **Antiepileptic:** a drug that prevents epileptic seizures upon prophylactic administration (valproic acid). **Antimanic:** a drug that suppresses the excitement phase (mania) or bipolar disorder (lithium carbonate). **Anti-motion Sickness agent:** a drug that suppresses motion-induces nausea, vomiting, and vertigo (dimenhydrinate HCl). **Antinauseant:** a drug that suppresses nausea and vomiting; an antiemetic (ondansetron). **Antiparkinsonian (antidyskinetic):** a drug that suppresses the neurologic disturbances and symptoms of parkinsonism (levodopa). **Antipsychotic:** a drug that suppresses the symptoms of psychoses of various diagnostic types (haloperidol). **Anxiolytic:** a drug that suppresses symptoms of anxiety (diazepam). Barbiturate: a sedative-hypnotic drug that contains the barbituric acid moiety in its chemical structure (phenobarbital). Benzodiazepine: a sedative-anxiolytic-muscle relaxant drug that contains the benzodiazepine moiety in its chemical structure (diazepam). **Centrally Acting Drug:** a drug that produces its therapeutic effect by action on the CNS, usually designated by the type of therapeutic action (sedative, hypnotic, anticonvulsant, etc.) GABA Agonist: a drug that acts to stimulate or increase the action at the GABA receptor, producing typically sedative effects, and may cause other effects such as anxiolytic and muscle relaxant effects. Glutamate Inhibitor: a drug that will block the action of glutamic acid/glutamate. Hydantoin: an antiepileptic drug that contains the hydantoin moiety in its chemical structure (phenytoin sodium). **Hypnotic:** a CNS depressant used to induce sleep (eszopiclone). Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor: an antidepressant drug that inhibits the enzyme monoamine oxidase, thereby increasing catecholamine levels of neurons (isocarboxazid). Phenothiazine: an antipsychotic or antidepressant drug that contains the phenothiazine nucleus in its chemical structure (chlorpromazine). **Psychedelic:** a drug (especially a street drug) that induces [vivid sensory phenomena and hallucinations] (mescaline). **Psychotherapeutic:** a drug used to treat abnormal mental or emotional processes. Reverse COMT Inhibitor: a drug that inhibits the action of catechol-O-methyltransferase. **Sedative:** a CNS depressant used to induce [mild relaxation] (phenobarbital). Serotonin Agonist: a compound that activates serotonin receptors, mimicking the effect of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin Antagonist: a drug used to inhibit the action at serotonin receptors. **Stimulant, Central:** a drug that [increases] the functional state of the CNS, sometimes used in convulsive therapy of mental disorders (flurothyl). **Tranquilizer, Minor:** an old term for an anxiolytic drug. **Tranquilizer:** a drug (such as antipsychotic) used to suppress an acutely disturbed emotional state (trifluoperazine). Tricyclic Antidepressant: an antidepressant that contains the tricyclic phenothiazine nucleus in its chemical structure (amitriptyline). Xanthine Alkaloid: a plant principle chemically related to xanthine, with CNS stimulant, smooth muscle relaxant, and diuretic actions (caffeine). E. Drugs Acting on the Endocrine System **Abortifacient:** an agent that will [induce an abortion.] **Adrenocorticotropic Hormone:** a hormone that stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce glucocorticoids (corticotropin). Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitor: a drug that [blocks the digestion of carbohydrates] into simple sugars that will increase blood sugar levels (oral antidiabetic drugs). Alpha Reductase Inhibitor: a drug that decreases the levels of available 5α-reductase prior to testosterone's binding with the enzyme, [reducing levels of dihydrotestosterone]. Anabolic Steroid: an androgen analogue with relatively greater anabolic activity; it is used to treat catabolic disorders (methandrostenolone). **Androgen:** a hormone that stimulates and maintains [male] reproductive function and sex characteristics (testosterone). **Anti-androgen:** a drug that inhibits response to androgenic hormones. **Antidiabetic:** a drug that supplies insulin or stimulates the secretion of insulin; it is useful in treating [diabetes mellitus] (insulin, glipizide). **Antiestrogen:** a drug that inhibits the action of estrogenic hormones (tamoxifen). Antigonadotropin: a drug that inhibits anterior pituitary secretion of gonadotropins; it is used to suppress ovarian malfunction (danazol). Antihypocalcemic: a drug that elevates plasma calcium level; it is useful in treating hypocalcemia (parathyroid injection). **Antihypoglycemic:** a drug that elevates plasma glucose level; it is useful in treating hypoglycemia (glucagon). Antiprogestin: a type of hormone antagonist that antagonizes or suppresses the actions of progesterone (mifepristone). **Antithyroid agent:** a drug that reduces thyroid hormone action, usually by inhibiting hormone synthesis (methimazole). Bisphosphonate: also called diphosphonates, are a class of drugs that are used to prevent the loss of bone mass. Bone Metabolism Regulator: a drug that slows calcium turnover in bone; it is used to treat Paget disease (etidronate). **Contraceptive, Oral:** an orally administered drug that prevent conception (norethindrone acetate). Contraceptive, Topical: a spermicidal agent used topically in the vagina to prevent conception (nonoxynol 9). Contraceptive, Transdermal: topically administered drugs that prevent conception (norelgestromin/ethinyl estradiol). Contraceptive, Vaginal: intravaginal ring inserted releasing drugs that prevent conception (etonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol). **Estrogen:** a hormone that stimulates and maintains [female] reproductive organs and sex characteristics and functions in the uterine cycle (ethinyl estradiol). Fertility Agent: a drug that promotes ovulation in women of low fertility or spermatogenesis in men of low fertility (clomiphene). Galactokinetic: a drug used to initiate lactation after childbirth (oxytocin nasal spray). **Glucocorticoid:** an adrenocortical hormone that regulates organic metabolism and [inhibits inflammatory response] (betamethasone). **Gonadotropin:** a drug that supplies the [gonad-stimulating actions] of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and/or luteinizing hormone (LH); it is used to promote fertility (menotropins). **Growth Hormone, Human:** a drug that duplicates endogenous growth hormone; it is used in children to treat growth failure due to the lack of growth hormone (somatrem). **Hormone:** a drug that duplicates the action of a physiological cell regulator (hormone) (insulin, estradiol, thyroxine). **Hyperglycemic:** a drug that elevates blood glucose level (glucagon). **Hypoglycemic:** a condition of low blood sugar. **Mineralocorticoid:** an adrenocortical hormone that [regulates sodium/potassium balance] in the body (desoxycorticosterone acetate). Ovulation Stimulator: a drug that is similar to estrogen and binds to the estrogen receptor causing a negative feedback that stimulates the release of gonadotropin releasing hormone that activates the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH with resultant release of an egg. Oxytocic: a drug that stimulates uterine motility; it is used in obstetrics to initiate labor or to control postpartum hemorrhage (oxytocin). **Posterior Pituitary Hormone, Antidiuretic:** a hormone that [promotes renal reabsorption of water]; it is useful in treating [diabetes insipidus] (vasopressin injection). Progestin: a progesterone-like hormone that stimulates the secretory phase of the uterine cycle (norethindrone). Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM): a compound that acts on the estrogen receptor to selectively inhibit or stimulate estrogen-like action in various tissues. Somatostatin Analog: a hormone chemically and functionally similar to somatostatin. Sulfonylurea: an oral antidiabetic drug that contains the sulfonylurea moiety in its chemical structure (glimepiride). **Thyroid Hormone:** a hormone that maintains metabolic function and normal metabolic rate of tissues (levothyroxine) F. Drugs for Microorganisms and Parasites Amebicide: an agent used to treat amoebozoa infections (metronidazole). **Anthelmintic:** a drug that eradicates [intestinal worm] infestations (mebendazole). Antiamebic: a drug that kills or inhibits [protozoan] parasites such as *Entamoeba histolytica,* causative agent of amebiasis (chloroquine). **Antibacterial:** a drug that kills or inhibits pathogenic bacteria (penicillin G). **Antibiotic:** a drug originally of [microbial origin] used to kill or inhibit bacterial and other infections (clarithromycin). Antifilarial: a drug that kills or inhibits pathogenic filarial worms (diethylcarbamazine). **Antifungal, Systemic:** a drug that kills or inhibits pathogenic fungi (fluconazole). **Antifungal, Topical:** a drug applied externally to kill or inhibit pathogenic fungi (tolnaftate). Antiherpes Agent: a drug that inhibits replication of herpes simplex virus; it is used to treat genital herpes (acyclovir). **Anti-infective, Topical (or Local):** a drug that kills or inhibits pathogenic microorganisms and is suitable for sterilizing skin and wounds (povidone iodine). Antileishmanial: a drug that kills or inhibits pathogenic protozoa of the genus *Leishmania* (hydroxystilbamidine isethionate). Antileprotic: a drug that kills or inhibits *Mycobacterium leprae*, the causative agent of leprosy (dapsone). Synonyms: Leprostatic Antimalarial: a drug that kills or inhibits protozoa of the genus *Plasmodium*, the causative agents of malaria (chloroquine). **Antiparasitic:** a drug that eradicates parasitic arthropods, helminths, protozoa, etc. **Antiprotozoal:** a drug that kills or inhibits pathogenic protozoa (metronidazole). **Antiretroviral:** a group of drugs used to treat infections caused by retroviruses, especially [HIV.] Antirickettsial: a drug that kills or inhibits pathogenic microorganisms of the genus *Rickettsia* (chloramphenicol). Antischistosomal: a drug that kills or inhibits [pathogenic flukes] of the genus *Schistosoma* (oxamniquine). Antitreponemal: a drug that kills or inhibits *Treponema pallidum*, the causative agents of [syphilis] (penicillin). Antitrichomonal: a drug that kills or inhibits pathogenic protozoa of the genus *Trichomonas* (metronidazole). **Antitubercular:** a drug that kills or inhibits *Mycobacterium tuberculosis*, the causative agents of tuberculosis (isoniazid). Synonyms: Tuberculostatic. **Antiviral:** a drug that kills or inhibits viral infections (idoxuridine). **Antiviral, Prophylactic:** a drug useful in [preventing] (rather than treating) viral infections (amantadine). Cephalosporin: an antimicrobial drug that contains the cephalosporin moiety in its chemical structure (cefotaxime) **Disinfectant:** an agent that destroys microorganisms on contact and is suitable for sterilizing [inanimate objects] (formaldehyde solution). Immunizing Agent, Active: an antigen that [induces antibody production] against a pathogenic microorganism; it is used to provide permanent but delayed protection against infection (tetanus toxoid). Immunizing Agent, Passive: a drug [containing antibodies] against a pathogenic microorganism; it is used to provide immediate but temporary protection against infection (tetanus immune globulin, rabies immune globulin). **Immunoglobulin:** antibody protein derived from blood serum; it is used to confer passive immunity to infectious diseases. Neuraminidase Inhibitor: a drug in a class of antiviral drugs targeted at the influenza virus, which works by blocking the function of the viral neuraminidase protein, preventing the virus from reproducing by budding from the host cell (oseltamivir) Pediculicide: an insecticide suitable for eradicating louse infestations (pediculosis) (malathion). Penicillin Adjuvant: a drug that extend the systemic duration of penicillin by inhibiting its renal excretion (probenecid). Protease Inhibitor: is a drug used to treat or prevent infection by viruses, including HIV and hepatitis C. Scabicide: an insecticide suitable for the eradication of the itch mite *Sarcoptes scabiei* (scabies) (crotamiton). **Toxoid:** a modified antigen from an infectious organism used as a vaccine (tetanus toxoid). **Vaccine:** an antigen-containing drug used to induce [active immunity] against an infectious disease. G. Drugs for Pain, Inflammation and Hyperactivity of the Immune System **Adrenocorticosteroid, Anti-Inflammatory:** an adrenal cortex hormone that regulates organic metabolism and inhibits inflammatory response; a [glucocorticoid] (prednisone). **Analgesic:** a drug that [suppresses pain perception] (nociception) without inducing unconsciousness (aspirin). **Anesthetic, General:** a drug that eliminates pain perception by inducing [unconsciousness] (halothane). **Anesthetic, Local:** a drug that eliminates pain perception in a limited body area by local action on sensory nerves (procaine). **Anesthetic, Topical:** a local anesthetic that is effective upon application to mucous membranes (tetracaine). **Antiarthritic:** a drug that reduces the joint inflammation of arthritis (anakinra). **Antigout Agent:** a drug that reduces tissue deposits of uric acid in chronic gout or suppresses the intense inflammatory reaction of acute gout (allopurinol). **Antihistaminic:** a drug that antagonizes histamine action at [H1] histamine receptors; it is useful in suppressing the histamine-induces symptoms of [allergy] (chlorpheniramine). **Anti-inflammatory:** a drug that inhibits physiological response to cell damage (inflammation) (ibuprofen). **Antipyretic:** a drug that [restores normal body temperature] in the presence of fever (acetaminophen). **Antirheumatic:** an anti-inflammatory drug used to treat arthritis and rheumatoid disorders (indomethacin). Chrysotherapeutic: a drug containing gold; it is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (auranofin). **Corticosteroid:** an agent that includes the steroid hormones naturally produced in the adrenal cortex (hydrocortisone). Demulcent: a bland viscous liquid, usually water based, used to coat and soothe damaged or inflamed skin or mucous membranes (methylcellulose). Histamine H1 Receptor Antagonist: a drug used to combat the histamine-induced symptoms of allergy; an antihistamine. **Immunosuppressant:** a drug that [inhibits immune response] to foreign materials; it is used to suppress rejection of tissue grafts (azathioprine). Monoclonal Antibody: a highly specific immunoglobulin produced by cell culture cloning. **Narcotic:** a drug that induces action by reacting with opioid receptors of the CNS or a drug that is legally classified as a narcotic with regard to prescribing regulations. Synonyms: Opioid Narcotic Antagonist: a drug that reacts with opioid receptors asymptomatically; it is used to terminate the action of narcotic drugs (naloxone). Synonyms: Opioid Antagonist **Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug:** an [analgesic, anti-inflammatory] drug that inhibits prostaglandin synthesis (ketoprofen). Prostaglandin Synthetase Inhibitor: a drug that inhibits prostaglandin synthesis and prostaglandin-induced symptoms such as inflammation; an NSAID (ibuprofen). Prostaglandin: a drug from the classes of cell-regulating hormones cyclized from arachidonic acid (alprostadil). Proteolytic, Injectable: an enzyme drug for injection into herniated lumbar intervertebral discs to reduce interdiscal pressure (chymopapain). Sclerosing agent: an irritant drug suitable for injection into varicose veins to induce their fibrosis and obliteration (morrhuate sodium injection). Urocosuric: a drug that promotes renal excretion of uric acid; it is useful in treating chronic gout (probenecid). Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitor: a substance that inhibits the activity of xanthine oxidase, an enzyme involved in purine metabolism. H. Drugs Acting on the Cardiovascular System Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor: a drug that inhibits biotransformation of angiotensin I into vasoconstricting angiotensin II; it is used to treat hypertension (captopril). **Antianginal:** a coronary vasodilator useful in preventing or treating attacks of angina pectoris (nitroglycerin). **Antiarrhythmic:** a cardiac depressant useful in suppressing rhythm irregularities of the heart (amiodarone). **Antihypertensive:** a drug that lowers arterial blood pressure, especially the elevated diastolic pressure of hypertension (metoprolol). Synonyms: Hypotensive Calcium Channel Blocker: an antianginal drug that acts by impairing the function of transmembrane calcium channels of vascular smooth muscle cells (verapamil). Cardiac Depressant, Antiarrhythmic: a drug that depresses myocardial function; it is useful in treating cardiac arrhythmias (procainamide). Cardiac Glycoside: a plant principle derived from Digitalis purpurea and related species, with cardiotonic action (digoxin). Cardiotonic: a drug that increases myocardial contractile force; it is useful in treating congestive heart failure (digoxin). Endothelin receptor antagonist: a drug that blocks endothelin receptors for treatment of a number of diseases, including pulmonary arterial hypertension. Ionotropic Agent: a drug that increases the contractile strength of heart muscle; a cardiotonic (digoxin). I. Drugs Acting on the Urinary System **Antidiuretic:** a drug that promotes renal water reabsorption, thus [reducing urine volume]; it is used to treat neurogenic diabetic insipidus (desmopressin). Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor: a drug that inhibits the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, the therapeutic effects of which are diuresis and reduced formation of intraocular fluid (acetazolamide). **Diuretic:** a drug that [promotes renal excretion] of electrolytes and water; it is useful in treating generalized [edema] (furosemide). Loop Diuretic: a diuretic with renal site of action in the thick ascending loop of Henle (furosemide). Potassium-Sparing Diuretic: a diuretic that does not induce systemic potassium depletion as a side effect (triamterene). Thiazide Diuretic: a diuretic that contains the benzothiadiazide (thiazide) moiety in its chemical structure (hydrochlorothiazide). J. Drugs for Skin Conditions **Antiacne Agent:** a drug that combats the lesions of acne vulgaris (isotretinoin). Antieczematic: a topical drug that aids in control of chronic exudative skin lesions (coal tar). **Antipruritic:** a drug that reduces [itching] (pruritus) (trimeprazine). Antipsoriatic: a drug that suppresses the lesions and symptoms of psoriasis (methotrexate). Antiseborrheic: a drug that aids in the control of seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff) (selenium sulfide). **Astringent:** a drug used topically to toughen and shrink tissues (aluminum acetate solution). Astringent, Ophthalmic: a mild astringent suitable for use in the eye (zinc sulfate). **Caustic:** a topical drug that destroys tissue on contact; it is useful in removing skin lesions (toughened silver nitrate). Depigmenting Agent: a drug that inhibits melanin production in the skin; it is used to induce general depigmentation in certain splotchy depigmented conditions (e.g. vitiligo), (hydroquinone). **Emollient:** a topical drug, especially an oil or fat, used to [soften the skin] and make it more pliable (cold cream). Epidermal Growth Factor: a growth factor that stimulates cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation by binding to its receptor EGFR. **Keratolytic:** a topical drug that toughens and protects skin (compound benzoin tincture). Photosensitizer: a drug that increases cutaneous response to ultraviolet light; it is used with ultraviolet light to treat certain skin disease (e.g. psoriasis) (methoxsalen). Pigmenting Agent: a drug that promotes melanin synthesis in the skin (trioxsalen). **Rubefacient:** a topical drug that [induces mild skin irritation] with erythema; it is used as a toughening agent (rubbing alcohol). **Sunscreening agent**: a skin protectant that absorbs light energy at wavelengths that cause sunburn (PABA). **Vesicant:** a blistering agent or blister-producing agent. K. Drugs Acting on the Blood **Antianemic:** a drug used to treat anemia (ferrous sulfate). **Anticholesterol agent:** a drug that lowers plasma cholesterol level (cholestyramine resin). Anticoagulant Antagonist: a drug that opposes the overdosage of anticoagulant drugs (phytonadione). Anticoagulant, for Storage of Whole Blood: a nontoxic agent added to collected blood to prevent clotting (anticoagulant citrate dextrose solution). **Anticoagulant, Systemic:** a drug administered to [slow the clotting] of circulating blood (warfarin). **Antifibrinolytic:** a drug that promotes hemostasis by [inhibiting clot dissolution] (fibrinolysis) (Aminocaproic acid). Antihemophilic: a drug that replaces blood clotting factors absent in the hereditary disease hemophilia (antihemophilic factor). **Antihyperlipidemic:** a drug that lowers plasma cholesterol and lipid levels (atorvastatin). Antilipemic: an agent that reduces lipid levels in the blood. **Antiplatelet agent:** a drug that [inhibits aggregation of blood platelets]; it is used to [prevent heart attack] (Aspirin, clopidogrel). Fibrinolytic Proteolytic: an enzyme drug used topically to hydrolyze the exudates of infected and inflammatory lesions (fibrinolysin). Hematinic: a drug that promotes hemoglobin formation by supplying iron (ferrous sulfate). Hematopoietic: a vitamin that stimulates the formation of blood cells; it is useful in treating vitamin-deficiency anemia (cyanocobalamin). Hemorheologic Agent: a drug that improves the flow properties of blood by reducing viscosity (pentoxifylline). **Hemostatic, Local:** a drug applied to a bleeding surface to [promote clotting] or to serve as a clot matrix (thrombin). **Hemostatic, Systemic:** a drug that [stops bleeding] by inhibiting systemic fibrinolysis (aminocaproic acid). Synonyms: Coagulant HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor: a drug that inhibits the rate-controlling enzyme of the mevalonate pathway, the metabolic pathway that produces cholesterol and other isoprenoids. Plasma Volume Expander: a substance that can be transfused to maintain fluid volume of the blood. Platelet Growth Factor: contained in platelet-rich plasma that is a blood plasma that has been enricked with platelets, different growth factors, and cytokines. Platelet-Reducing Agent: a drug that slows down platelet production in the body (anagrelide). Prothrombogenic: a drug with vitamin K activity; it is useful in treating the hypoprothrombinemia of vitamin K deficiency or overdosage with a vitamin K antagonist (phytonadione). **Thrombolytic:** an enzyme drug administered parenterally to [solubilize blood clots] (enoxaparin). L. Drugs Acting on the Gastrointestinal System **Antidiarrheal:** a drug that inhibits intestinal peristalsis; it is used to treat diarrhea (loperamide). **Antiemetic:** a drug that suppresses nausea and vomiting (ondansetron). **Antiflatulent:** a drug that reduces gastrointestinal gas (simethicone). Antiperistaltic: a drug that inhibits intestinal motility; an antidiarrheal drug (diphenoxylate). Antisecretory: an agent that acts to reduce or inhibit gastric secretions. **Cathartic:** a drug that promotes defecation, usually considered stronger in action than a laxative (bisacodyl). Cholelitholytic: a drug that promotes dissolution of gallstones (ursodeoxycholic acid). Choleretic: a drug that increases bile secretion by the liver (dehydrocholic acid) Digestive Aid: a drug that promotes digestion, usually by supplementing a gastrointestinal enzyme (pancreatin). **Emetic:** a drug that induces vomiting; it is useful in expelling ingested but unabsorbed poisons (ipecac syrup). Fecal Softener: a drug that promotes defecation by softening the feces (docusate sodium) Gastric Acid Secretion Inhibitor: a drug that inhibits the secretion of gastric acid, as shown by proton pump inhibitors. Gastroprokinetic: a drug that increases gastrointestinal motility by increasing the frequency of contractions in the small intestine or making them stronger, without disrupting their rhythm. Histamine H2 Receptor Antagonist: a drug that inhibits histamine-mediated gastric acid secretion; it is used to treat peptic and duodenal ulcers (famotidine). Ion Exchange Resin: a drug in the GIT that takes up ions present in a toxic amount with an equivalent release of nontoxic ions. Synonyms: Electrolyte Removing Resin **Laxative:** a drug that promotes defecation, usually considered milder in action than a cathartic (psyllium). Lipase Inhibitor: a drug used to reduce the activity of lipases found in the intestine secreted by the pancreas when fat is present. Phosphate Binder: an agent that reduces the absorption of phosphate when taken with meals and snacks. Proton Pump Inhibitor: a drug that inhibits gastric acid production. Stool Softener: a drug used to soften the stool by enhancing the incorporation of water to ease evacuation. Urea Cyclic Disorder Agent: a drug used to treat a severe disease of newborns in which ammonia is not correctly metabolized in the liver. M. Drugs Acting on the Respiratory System **Antitussive:** a drug that [suppresses coughing] (dextromethorphan). **Bronchodilator:** a drug that expands bronchiolar airways; it is useful in treating [asthma] (albuterol) **Expectorant:** a drug that increases respiratory tract secretions, lowers their viscosity, and promotes removal (guaifenesin). Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist: a drug that inhibits leukotrienes or fatty compounds produced by the immune system that cause inflammation in asthma and bronchitis and constrict airways. Lung Surfactant: a surface-active lipoprotein complex (phospholipoprotein) formed by type II alveolar cells. **Mucolytic:** a drug that hydrolyzes mucoproteins; it is useful in [reducing the viscosity] of pulmonary mucus (acetylcysteine). **Respiratory Stimulant:** a drug which serves to increase the action of the respiratory system; it increases breathing; a drug that selectively stimulates respiration, either by peripheral initiation of respiratory reflexes or by selective CNS stimulation (carbon dioxide) N. Anticancer Drugs Alkylating agent: an antineoplastic drug that attacks malignant cells by reacting covalently with their DNA (chlorambucil). Antimetabolite: a drug that attacks malignant cells or pathogenic cells by serving as a non-functional substitute for an essential metabolite (fluorouracil). **Antineoplastic:** a drug that attacks malignant (neoplastic) cells in the body. Proteasome Inhibitor: a drug that blocks the action of proteasomes, cellular complexes that break down proteins. Vinca Alkaloid: a plant principle derived from Vinca rosea and related species, with antineoplastic action (vincristine). O. Drugs for Vitamin Deficiencies Antirachitic: a drug with [vitamin D] activity; it is useful in treating vitamin D deficiency and rickets (cholecalciferol). Antiscorbutic: a drug with [vitamin C] activity; it is useful in treating vitamin C deficiency and scurvy (ascorbic acid). Antixerophthalmic: a drug with [vitamin A] activity; it is useful in treating vitamin A deficiency and xerophthalmia (vitamin A). Retinoic Acid Derivative: a derivative of [vitamin A] (retinol). Vitamin: an organic chemical essential in small amounts for normal metabolism; it is used therapeutical to supplement the vitamin content of foods. P. Miscellaneous **Antidote, General Purpose:** a drug that reduces the effects of ingested poisons (or drug overdoses) by absorbing toxic material (activated charcoal). **Antidote, Specific:** a drug that reduces the effects of a systemic poison (or drug overdose) by a mechanism that relates to the particular poison (dimercaprol) Dental Caries Prophylactic: a drug applied to the teeth to reduce the incidence of cavities (sodium fluoride). Dentin Desensitizer: a drug applied to the teeth to reduce sensitivity of exposed subenamel dentin (potassium nitrate). Detergent: an emulsifying agent used as a cleanser. Diagnostic Aid: a drug used to determine the functional state of a body organ or to determine the presence of a disease. Heavy Metal Antagonist: a drug used as an antidote to poisoning with toxic metals such as arsenic and mercury (dimercaprol). Hydrolytic, Injectable: an enzyme drug that promotes the diffusion of other injected drugs through connective tissues (hyaluronidase). Radiopaque Agent: a drug used to help diagnose certain medical diseases. **Radiopharmaceutical:** a drug containing a radioactive isotope; it is used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. Salt-Substitute: a sodium-free alternative to sodium chloride used for flavoring foods (KCl). X-Ray Contrast Medium: a drug opaque to X-rays that assists visualization of an internal organ during radiographic examination (barium sulfate). Synonyms: Radiographic Agent