Appendix II: Key Words for Key Drugs

INTRODUCTION

The following list is a compilation of the drugs that are most likely to appear on examinations. The brief descriptions should serve as a rapid review. The list can be used in 2 ways. First, cover the column of properties and test your ability to recall descriptive information about drugs picked at random from the left column; second, cover the left column and try to name a drug that fits the properties described. The numbers in parentheses at the end of each drug description denote the relevant chapter.

Common abbreviations and acronyms: ACE, angiotensin converting enzyme; ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; ANS, autonomic nervous system; AV, atrioventricular; BP, blood pressure; CNS, central nervous system; COMT, catechol-O-methyltransferase; DMARD, disease-modifying antirheumatic drug; ENS, enteric nervous system; EPS, extrapyramidal system; GABA, γ-aminobutyric acid; GI, gastrointestinal; GPCR, G protein-coupled receptor; HF, heart failure; HR, heart rate; HTN, hypertension; LMW, low molecular weight; MAO, monoamine oxidase; MI, myocardial infarct; NSAID, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug; PANS, parasympathetic autonomic nervous system; RA, rheumatoid arthritis; SANS, sympathetic autonomic nervous system; TCA, tricyclic antidepressant; TNF, tumor necrosis factor; Tox, toxicity; WBCs, white blood cells.