Pharmacology is a complex and challenging field, but it is incredibly important for healthcare professionals to understand in order to provide the best care to patients. One helpful tool that can aid in understanding pharmacology is a cheat sheet that outlines generic drug stems. If you’re a nurse or nursing student, you may find this cheat sheet particularly useful. It provides a simplified way to remember how drugs are classified and what they do. With this cheat sheet, you can easily break down the names of unfamiliar drugs and understand their purpose. Let’s take a closer look at the cheat sheet.
Pharmacology Cheat Sheet: Generic Drug Stems
As you can see, the cheat sheet is divided into different classifications of drugs. For example, drugs that end in “-pril” are ACE inhibitors, which are commonly used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Drugs that end in “-olol” are beta blockers, which are also used to treat high blood pressure as well as heart arrhythmias and migraines.
ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors are drugs that work by blocking the body’s production of angiotensin II, a hormone that can cause blood vessels to narrow and increase blood pressure. Common examples of ACE inhibitors include lisinopril and enalapril. These medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including hypertension, heart failure, and diabetic kidney disease.
Beta Blockers
Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the body. This can lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and decrease the workload on the heart. Beta blockers are commonly used to treat hypertension, angina, and heart failure, as well as certain types of migraines. Examples of beta blockers include metoprolol and atenolol.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers block calcium from entering cells in the heart and blood vessels, which can reduce blood pressure and decrease the workload on the heart. These drugs are often used to treat hypertension, angina, and certain types of arrhythmias. Examples of calcium channel blockers include amlodipine and diltiazem.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that are used to treat a wide variety of conditions. They work by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation in the body. Corticosteroids are often used to treat conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Examples of corticosteroids include prednisone and dexamethasone.
NSAIDs
NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation in the body. They work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. NSAIDs are often used to treat conditions such as arthritis, menstrual cramps, and headaches. Examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen and naproxen.
Conclusion
As you can see, the cheat sheet provides a simplified way to understand how drugs are classified and what they do. Whether you’re a nurse or nursing student, this cheat sheet can be a valuable resource in helping you understand pharmacology.
It’s important to note that while the cheat sheet provides a helpful guide, it’s still important to read and understand the drug information provided by your healthcare provider. It’s also important to never take any medication without first consulting with your healthcare provider.
If you have any questions about these drugs or how they are used, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider. They can provide you with more information and help you determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
We hope you find this cheat sheet helpful in your study of pharmacology!
