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135 Cards in this Set

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Hydrocodone/APAP
Hydrocodone is an opioid analgesic. It blocks pain by binding Mu and Kappa opiate receptors in the cerebral cortex. Acetaminophen is an analgesic and an antipyretic. It's analgesic effect is due to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS, while it's antipyretic effect comes from inhibition of the hypothalmic heat-regulation center.
Atrovastatin
Atorvastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, which is catalyzes the rate limiting step in cholesterol synthesis. This decreases the amount of cholesterol the body can produce, which results in an increase in LDL receptors on hepatocytes, thereby enhancing LDL clearance and catabolism.
Levothyroxine
Levothyroxine is synthetic T4 (Thyroxine). Thyriod hormones increase the metabolic rate of body tissues as well as regulate cell growth and differentiation.
Lisinopril
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor. ACE normally converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. Reducing angiotension II leads to reduced aldosterone secretion, which decreases sodium and water resorption. ACE inhibitors also inhibit the degradation of the peptide bradykinin that stimulates the release of the vasodilator nitric oxide. The results include lower arteriolar resistance, increased venous capacity, and lower blood volume. Thus ACE inhibitors reduce cardiac preload, which alleviates heart congestion, and they reduce cardiac afterload, which enhances stroke volume and ejection fraction, and thereby precludes the ventricular remodeling associated with chronic HTN or a prior MI.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a beta lactam antibiotic. It binds to penicillin binding proteins, which inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, causing the bacteria to eventually lyse.
Esomeprazole
Esopeprazole is a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI). It is the S-isomer of omeprazole. It inhibits H/K-ATPase in gastric parietal cells, which suppresses gastric acid secretion. It is a prodrug that is protonated to its active form under acidic conditions.
Clopidogrel
Clopidogrel prevents activation of glycoprotein IIB/IIIA by blocking P2Y12 ADP receptors on the surface of platelets. This effects platelets for their entire lifespan (7 to 10 days). It is a prodrug and is converted to its active metabolite via CYP 2C19.
Metoprolol Tartrate
Metoprolol is a cardioselective Beta Blocker. It selectively blocks Beta-1 receptors, decreases HR, cardiac output, and BP (can lose selectivity at higher doses (> 100 mg)).
Montelukast
Montelukast is a Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist. Leukotrienes cause airway edema, smooth muscle contraction, activation of the inflammatory process, and symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Montelukast blocks them from binding, which prevents these actions.
Escitalopram
Escitalopram is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). It selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the CNS so that serotonin stays in the synapse longer and have more of an effect.
Albuterol Inhaler
Albuterol is a beta-2 agonist. It stimulates Beta-2 receptors, which relaxes bronchial smooth muscle.
Simvastatin
Simvastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, which is catalyzes the rate limiting step in cholesterol synthesis. This decreases the amount of cholesterol the body can produce, which results in an increase in LDL receptors on hepatocytes, thereby enhancing LDL clearance and catabolism.
Amlodipine
Amlodapine is a DHP Calcium Channel Blocker. It causes relaxation of vascular smooth msucle and cardiac muscle by inhibiting calcium influx. Like all DHP CCBs, it works more on the vasculature than in the myocardium. Non-DHP CCBs, such as verapamil and diltiazem, work more in the cardiac muscle.
Azithromycin
Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. It binds 50S ribosomal subunit, which suppresses protein synthesis.
Metformin
Metformin decreases glucose production in the liver, decreases the absorption of diatary glucose from the intestines, and improves insulin sensitivity.
Metoprolol Succinate
Metoprolol is a Cardioselective Beta Blocker. It selectively blocks Beta-1 receptors, decreases HR, cardiac output, and BP (can lose selectivity at higher doses (> 100 mg)).
Hydrochlorothiazide
HCTZ is a thiazide diuretic. It increases sodium and water excretion by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption at the distal tubules of the kidney. It has a diuretic effect at first, but also decreases peripheral vascular resistance over time (both of which decrease blood pressure).
Rosuvastatin
Rosuvastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, which is catalyzes the rate limiting step in cholesterol synthesis. This decreases the amount of cholesterol the body can produce, which results in an increase in LDL receptors on hepatocytes, thereby enhancing LDL clearance and catabolism.
Furosemide
Furosemide is a loop diuretic. It increases the excretion of water, sodium, chloride, magnesium, and calcium, by inhibiting reabsorption of these ions in the ascending loop of Henle and the distal tubele of the kidneys.
Warfarin
Warfarin is an anticoagulant. It inhibits vitamin K dependent coagulation factors II, VII, IX, and X. But it also inhibits anticoagulant proteins C and S before inhibiting the clotting factors, which is why heparin is often overlapped with warfarin for 5 days in high risk cases.
Fluticasone & Salmeterol
Fluticasone is a corticosteroid. It has anti-inflammatory, immunosupressive, and anti-proliferative properties. Salmeterol is a long-acting Beta-2 agonist. It stimulates Beta-2 receptors, which relaxes broncial smooth muscle.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is an NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drug). It decreases prostaglandin synthesis by inhibiting COX-1 & COX-2. It has antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties, which means it decreases temperature, pain, and inflammation, respectively.
Sertraline
Sertraline is a relatively Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). It inhibits the reuptake of serotonin by inhibiting serotonin transporter. But it also weakly inhibits the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Valsartan
Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). This prevents angiotensin II from binding AT1 receptors, thereby precluding vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. This results in a decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in the reabsorption of sodium and water, and vasodilation of the efferent arteriole of the kidneys, which is considered renal protective. It also prevents ventricular remodeling and cardiac hypertrophy.
Zolpidem
Zolpidem is an nonbenzodiazepine agonist of alpha-1 containing GABA-A receptors. It increases the affinity of the receptor for the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, thereby facilitating the opening of hyperpolarizing chloride ion channels in the CNS, resulting in sedative-hypnotic effects.
Oxycodone/APAP
Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic. It blocks pain by binding Mu and Kappa opiate receptors in the cerebral cortex. Acetaminophen is an analgesic and an antipyretic. It's analgesic effect is due to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS, while it's antipyretic effect comes from inhibition of the hypothalmic heat-regulation center.
Duloxetine
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reupdake Inhibitor: inhibits neuronal reuptake of both serotonins and norepinephrine.
Quetiapine
Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic. It and its major active metabolite both antagonize dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain. Additionally, its major active metabolite, norquetiapine, inhibits NET (Norepinephrine Transporter), thus elevating norepinephrine levels in specific areas of the brain, resulting in an antidepressant effect.
Venlafaxine
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reupdake Inhibitor: inhibits neuronal reuptake of both serotonins and norepinephrine. Also weakly inhibits dopamine reuptake. It has an active metabolite, O-desmethylvenlafaxine, that has the same mechanism of action.
Tamsulosin
Tamsulosin is an alpha-1a antagonist that works in the prostate. It causes relaxation of smooth muscle in the prostate, which improves urine flow.
Alprazolam
Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine. It binds benzodiazepine receptors in the CNS, which increases the effect of GABA. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that works by hyperpolarizing neuronal cells, which makes them less excitable.
Valsartan / Hydrochlorothiazide
Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). This prevents angiotensin II from binding AT1 receptors, thereby precluding vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. This results in a decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in the reabsorption of sodium and water, and vasodilation of the efferent arteriole of the kidneys, which is considered renal protective. It also prevents ventricular remodeling and cardiac hypertrophy. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic. It increases sodium and water excretion by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption at the distal tubules of the kidney. It has a diuretic effect at first, but also decreases peripheral vascular resistance over time (both of which decrease blood pressure).
Trazodone
Trazodone is a Serotonin Antagonist and Reuptake Inhibitor (SARI). In inhibits serotonin reuptake by brain synaptosomes. It acts as a serotonin agonist at high doses and a serotonin antagonist at low doses.
Pioglitazone
Pioglitazone is a thiazolidinedione. It is a PPAR gamma agonist, which improves insulin sensitivity w/o increasing insulin secretion and also inhibits hepatic gluconeogenisis. Insulin must be present for pioglitazone to work. And it lowers basal glucose levels (fasting plasma glucose). It lowers A1C by 0.8% on average (0.5 to 1.4%).
Alendronate
Alendronate is a bisphosphonate. It inhibits osteoclasts, which decreases bone turnover and resorption.
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim
SMX is a para-aminobenzoic acid antagonist, which inhibits bacterial synthesis of dihydrofolic acid. TMP inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, which blocks production of tetrahydrofolic acid. Hence the combination interferes with bacterial folic acid production.
Lansoprazole
Lansoprazole is a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI). It inhibits H/K-ATPase in gastric parietal cells, which suppresses gastric acid secretion.
Clonazepam
Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine. It binds benzodiazepine receptors in the CNS, which increases the effect of GABA. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that works by hyperpolarizing neuronal cells, which makes them less excitable.
Tramadol
Tramadol is an opioid analgesic. It binds mu-opioid receptors in the CNS and also weakly inhibits norepinephrine and serotonin reuptake, all of which decrease pain. It has an active metabolite (O-desmethyl tramadol) with the same mechanism of action.
Levofloxacin
Levofloxacin is fluorquinolone antibiotic. It is the S-(-) isomer of ofloxacin. It inhibits DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV in susceptable organisms. It is bactericidal and its actions are dose-dependent.
Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). It selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the CNS so that serotonin stays in the synapse longer and have more of an effect.
Prednisone
Prednisone is a corticosteroid. It is a prodrug and is converted to the active metabolite, prednisolone, in the liver. Prednisolone binds alpha and beta glucocorticoid receptors, which are found in nearly all body tissues. The result is glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid effects, including anti-inflammatory effects and immune suppression as well as anti-tumor and anti-emetic effects. Adrenal suppression can occur at high doses.
Omeprazole
Omeprazole is a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI). It inhibits H/K-ATPase in gastric parietal cells, which suppresses gastric acid secretion. It is a prodrug that is protonated to its active form under acidic conditions.
Atenolol
Atenolol is a cardioselective Beta Blocker. It selectively blocks Beta-1 receptors, decreases HR, cardiac output, and BP (can lose selectivity at higher doses).
Insulin Glargine
Insulin Glargine is a long-acting analog of insulin. It stimulates the uptake of glucose in the periphery, inhibits glucose production in the liver, and inhibits proteolysis and lypolysis. Overall, it regulates glucose metabolism.
Amoxicillin / Clavulanate
Amoxicillin is a beta lactam antibiotic. It binds to penicillin binding proteins, which inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, causing the bacteria to eventually lyse. Clavulanate is a beta-lactamase inhibitor. When present, beta-lactamases inactivate amoxicillin. By inhibiting beta-lactamases, clavulanate extends amoxicillin's spectrum of activity.
Fenofibrate
Fenofibrate is a fibric acid derivative. It is a prodrug: fenofibrate is converted to its active form, fibric acid, via hydrolysis of its carboxyl ester moiety. Fibric acid is a PPAR-alpha agonist, which results in inhibition of tryglyceride synthesis and catabolism of tryglyceride rich lipoproteins. This decreases VLDL and decreases triglycerides by 30 to 60% and can also cause an increase in HDL in some patients.

Celecoxib
Celecoxib is an NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drug). It selectively inhibits COX-2, which results in inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. The prostaglandins produced by the COX-2 pathway have a role in pain, fever, and tissue repair among other things, so celecoxib has analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Donepezil

Donepezil inhibits acetylcholinesterase, which normally hydrolyzes acetylcholine in the CNS, thus increasing the concentration of acetylcholine in the CNS. This is important for Alzheimer's, which is characterized by a cholinergic deficiency in the CNS. It does not stop the progression of Alzheimer's, but it is modestly effective in slowing the cognitive loss associated w/ the disease for at least 6 months.
Ezetimibe & Simvastatin
Simvastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, which is catalyzes the rate limiting step in cholesterol synthesis. This decreases the amount of cholesterol the body can produce, which results in an increase in LDL receptors on hepatocytes, thereby enhancing LDL clearance and catabolism. Ezetimibe works on the brush border of the small intestines by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol, which decreases cholesterol delivery to the liver. This causes a decrease in cholesterol stores and increases cholesterol clearance, resulting in reduced LDL cholesterol levels.
Cephalexin
Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It acts similar to beta-lactam antibiotics, inhibiting peptidoglycan synthesis in bacterial cell walls by binding penicillin binding proteins, thus preventing the formation of the cell wall and causing the bacteria to eventually lyse.
Mometasone
Mometasone is an intranasal corticosteroid. It depresses the release of inflammatory mediators, such as histamine and prostaglandins. It also reduces intracellular edema and causes mild vasoconstriction.
Drospirenone & Ethinyl Estradiol
The combination of drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol serves as a monophasic oral contraceptive. Most of the work is done by the progestin, which is drospirenone. It thickens cervical mucus, which prevents sperm penetration. It slows tubal motility, which delays sperm transport. It can induce endrometrial atrophy and it blocks luteinizing hormone surge, which inhibits ovulation. It also has anti-mineralocorticoid activity, which results in less water and weight gain than other progestins and is anti-adrogenic, making it useful in treating acne vulgaris. The estrogen, ethinyl estradiol, mainly works to stabolize the endometrial lining and provide cycle control, but also suppresses the release of follicle stimulating hormone from the pituitary, which may aid in blocking the LH surge and help prevent ovulation.
Vitamin D3
Vitamins D2 and D3 are converted to 25-hydroxyvitamin D in the liver, which is then converted to 1,25-hydroxyvitamin D in the kidney. 1,25-hydroxyvitamin D is active vitamin D and stimulates the absorption of calcium as well as phosphorus in the intestines (so vitamin D is needed for calcium absorption). Vitamin D also stimulates bone mineralization.
Ezetimibe
Ezetimibe works on the brush border of the small intestines by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol, which decreases cholesterol delivery to the liver. This causes a decrease in cholesterol stores and increases cholesterol clearance, resulting in reduced LDL cholesterol levels.
Gabapentin
The exact mechanism is unknown, but gabapentin is structurally similar to GABA, which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter.
Pregabalin
Pregabalin is an anticonvulsant. Its exact mechanism is unknown, but it inhibits the release of excitatory neurotransmitters by binding to calcium channels in the CNS. Although pregabalin is structurally similar to GABA, it does not bind GABA or benzodiazepine receptors. However, it may increase the density of GABA transporter protein.
Sildenafil
Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor, which, in terms of erectile dysfunction, enhances the effect of nitric oxide and increases the levels of cGMP in the corpus cavernosum. The result is smooth muscle relaxation and increased blood flow to the corpus cavernosum. Sidenafil can also cause relaxation of the smooth muscle in the lungs by the same mechanism, which is beneficial for pulmonary hypertension (the indication for Revatio).
APAP/Codeine
Acetaminophen is an analgesic and an antipyretic. It's analgesic effect is due to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS, while it's antipyretic effect comes from inhibition of the hypothalmic heat-regulation center. Codeine is an opioid analgesic. It binds opioid receptors in the CNS, which results in analgesia, sedation, and antitussive effects. [A small amount of codeine is metabolized to morphine, which indirectly account for a portion of its analgesic effects].
Fluconazole
Fluconazole is an antifungal agent. It inhibits fungal cytochrome p450 and sterol C-14 alpha-demethylation.
Intranasal Fluticasone
Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that inhibits inflammatory cytokines and has glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid effects. Overall, this gives fluticasone vasoconstrictive and anti-inflammatory properties.
Losartan
Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). This prevents angiotensin II from binding AT1 receptors, thereby precluding vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. This results in a decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in the reabsorption of sodium and water, and vasodilation of the efferent arteriole of the kidneys, which is considered renal protective. It also prevents ventricular remodeling and cardiac hypertrophy.
Propoxyphene-N/APAP
Acetaminophen is an analgesic and an antipyretic. It's analgesic effect is due to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS, while it's antipyretic effect comes from inhibition of the hypothalmic heat-regulation center. Propoxyphen is an opioid analgesic. It binds Mu and Kappa opiate receptors within the neuronal membranes of synapses, which blocks pain perception in the cerebal cortex.
Valacyclovir
Valacyclovir is converted to acyclovir in the intestines and liver, which is eventually converted to acyclovir triphosphate. Acyclovir triphosphate is incorperated into viral DNA, which then inhibits DNA polymerase, resulting in inhibition of viral DNA systhesis and viral replication.
Lorazepam
Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine. It binds benzodiazepine receptors in the CNS, which increases the effect of GABA. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that works by hyperpolarizing neuronal cells, which makes them less excitable.
Pantoprazole
Pantoprazole is a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI). It inhibits H/K-ATPase in gastric parietal cells, which suppresses gastric acid secretion. It is a prodrug that is protonated to its active form under acidic conditions.
Amlodipine/Benazepril
Amlodipine is a DHP Calcium Channel Blocker. It causes relaxation of vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle by inhibiting calcium influx. Like all DHP CCBs, it works more on the vasculature than in the myocardium. Non-DHP CCBs, such as verapamil and diltiazem, work more in the cardiac muscle. Benazepril is an ACE inhibitor. It is actually a prodrug. It is metabolized in the liver to its active metabolite, benazeprilat. ACE normally converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. Reducing angiotension II leads to reduced aldosterone secretion, which decreases sodium and water resorption. Overall, benazepril and amlodipine work together to decrease blood pressure.
Conjugated Estrogens
Conjugated Estrogens contains a mixture of different estrogens that control the development and function of the female reproductive system as well as the development of secondary sexual characteristics (i.e. breast enlargement, fat deposition, etc.). Estrogens affect the secretion of gonadotropins, FSH and LH, through negative feedback on the pituitary gland. So for postmenopausal females, levels of these hormones are reduced, which improves postmenopausal symptoms.
Oseltamivir
Oseltamivir is an antiviral. It is a prodrug that is metabolized in the liver to its active form, oseltamivir carboxylate, which blocks the release of the influenza virus from host cells by inhibiting influenza virus' enzyme, neuraminidase. So it is a neuraminidase inhibitor.
Tiotropium
Tiotropium is a long-acting anticholinergic. It causes bronchodilation by inhibiting the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic type 3 receptors.
Aripiprazole
Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsyhotic. Its exact mechanism is unknown, but it is known to be a partial agonist of dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors and an antagonist of 5-HT2A receptors.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a CNS stimulant. It blocks reuptake of norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) in the synaptic space in the cerebral cortex (so that they stay around longer in the synapse b/w neurons).
Digoxin
Digoxin inhibits Na/K-ATPase. This increases the intracellular sodium concentration, which leads to an increase in intracellular calcium. The resulting effects include an increase in the force and velocity of systolic contractions, a decreased heart rate, and a decreased conduction velocity through the AV node.
Fluticasone
Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that inhibits inflammatory cytokines and has glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid effects. Overall, this gives fluticasone vasoconstrictive and anti-inflammatory properties.
Fexofenadine
Fexofenadine is a 2nd generation antihistamine. It is a histamine H1 receptor antagonist in the periphery. 2nd generation antihistamines have less sedation than 1st generation antihistamines, and fexofenadine appears to have the least sedation of the 2nd generation antihistamines.
Olmesartan
Olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). This prevents angiotensin II from binding AT1 receptors, thereby precluding vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. This results in a decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in the reabsorption of sodium and water, and vasodilation of the efferent arteriole of the kidneys, which is considered renal protective. It also prevents ventricular remodeling and cardiac hypertrophy.
Pravastatin
Pravastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, which is catalyzes the rate limiting step in cholesterol synthesis. This decreases the amount of cholesterol the body can produce, which results in an increase in LDL receptors on hepatocytes, thereby enhancing LDL clearance and catabolism.
Triamterene/Hydrochlorothiazide
Triamterene is a potassium sparing diuretic. It inhibits sodium reabsorption in exchange for potassium at the distal renal tubule. HCTZ is a thiazide diuretic. It increases sodium and water excretion by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption at the distal tubules of the kidney.
Methylprednisolone
Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid. It has glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid effects, including immunosuppression, anti-allergy effects, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Cyclobenzaprine
Cyclobenzaprine is a centrally-acting muscle relaxant. It is pharmacologically related to trycyclic antidepressants. It most likely works at the brain stem. It reduces tonic somatic motor activity, influencing both alpha and gamma motor-neurons.
Clonidine
Clonidine is a postsynaptic alpha-2 antagonist. It works in the brainstem to reduce sympathetic outflow. Its overall effects include decreased peripheral resistance, decreased renal vascular resistance, decreased heart rate, and decreased blood pressure.
Risedronate
Risedronate is a bisphosphonate. It inhibits osteoclasts, which decreases bone turnover and resorption.
Diazepam
Diazepam is a benzodiazepine. It binds benzodiazepine receptors in the CNS, which increases the effect of GABA. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that works by hyperpolarizing neuronal cells, which makes them less excitable.
Carisoprodol
Carsioprodol is a centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant. The exact mechanism is unknown. Carsioprodol is metabolized to meprobamate, which has sedative and anxiolytic effects.
Promethazine
Promethazine is a 1st generation antihistamine. It's overall effects are sedation, antimotion sickness, antiemetic, are anticholinergic in nature.
Memantine
Memantine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist. It prevents over stimulation of NMDA receptors by glutamate in the CNS, which has been hypothesized to contribute to Alzheimer's disease.
Potassium Chloride
Potassium Chloride maintains or replinishes the bodies potassium levels. Potassium plays many roles in the body, which include being the major cation of intracellular fluid; being essential for the conduction of nerve impulses in the cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle as well as the brain; and in the maintenance of normal renal function, acid-base balance, carbohydrate metabolism, as well as production of gastric secretions.
Citalopram
Citalopram is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). It selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the CNS so that serotonin stays in the synapse longer and have more of an effect.
Meloxicam
Meloxicam is a non-selective NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drug). It decreases prostaglandin synthesis by inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2. It has antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties, which means it decreases temperature, pain, and inflammation, respectively.
Latanoprost
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin F2-alpha analog. It decreases intra-ocular pressure by increasing outflow of aqueous humor.
Carvedilol
Carvedilol is a non-selective beta blocker (beta-1 & -2) with alpha-1 blocking activity. Overall effects include vasodilation, decreased cardiac output, decreased induced tachycardia, decreased reflex orthostatic HYPERtension, and decreased peripheral vascular resistance.
Oxycodone
Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic. It blocks pain by binding Mu and Kappa opiate receptors in the cerebral cortex.
Paroxetine
Paroxetine is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). It selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the CNS so that serotonin stays in the synapse longer and have more of an effect.
Olmesartan/Hydrochlorothiazide
Olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). This prevents angiotensin II from binding AT1 receptors, thereby precluding vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. This results in a decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in the reabsorption of sodium and water, and vasodilation of the efferent arteriole of the kidneys, which is considered renal protective. It also prevents ventricular remodeling and cardiac hypertrophy. HCTZ is a thiazide diuretic. It increases sodium and water excretion by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption at the distal tubules of the kidney. It has a diuretic effect at first, but also decreases peripheral vascular resistance over time (both of which decrease blood pressure).
Tadalafil
Tadalafil is a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor, which (in terms of erectile dysfunction) enhances the effect of nitric oxide and increases the levels of cGMP in the corpus cavernosum. The result is smooth muscle relaxation and increased blood flow to the corpus cavernosum. Tadalafil can also cause relaxation of the smooth muscle in the lungs by the same mechanism, which is beneficial for pulmonary hypertension (the indication for the brand name Adcirca).
Sitagliptin
Sitagliptin is an antidiabetic agent. It’s a DPP-IV inhibitor. It inhibits dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV), which normally inactivates the incretin hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). GLP-1 and GIP regulate glucose homeostasis by increasing insulin synthesis and release from beta cells in the pancreas, and decreasing glucagon secretion from alpha cells of the pancreas. Overall, sitagliptin helps w/ prandial glucose (glucose around mealtime).
Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. In susceptible bacteria, ciprofloxacin inhibits DNA gyrase, which inhibits the relaxation of supercoiled DNA and promotes breakage of double-stranded DNA. It has a broad spectrum of activity and covers many Gram (+), Gram (-), & atypical bacteria. Specifically, ciprofloxacin provides goood coverage of enteric Gram (-) rods and Haemophilus influenzae and moderate coverage for Pseudomonas and atypical bacteria, such as Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, & Legionella.
Amitriptyline
Amitriptyline is a Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA). Other medications in this class include clomipramine, doxepin, imipramine, trimipramine, and nortriptyline. TCAs inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine (NE) and serotonin (5-HT), which increases their concentration in the synapses of the CNS.
Naproxen
Naproxen is a non-selective NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drug). It decreases prostaglandin synthesis by inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2. It has antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties, which means it decreases temperature, pain, and inflammation, respectively.
Niacin ER
Niacin is the most effective agent at increasing HDL while lowering triglycerides (TGs) and LDL. It inhibits hepatic uptake of apolipoprotein A-1, a major component of HDL. It decreases the mobilization of free fatty acids (FFAs) from peripheral tissues to the liver, which leads to decreased TG synthesis. It increases excretion of VLDL, leaving less VLDL available to make LDL.
Allopurinol
Allopurinol is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor. Xanthine oxidase normally converts hypoxanthine to xanthine, then to uric acid, which builds up in the case of gout.
Losartan/Hydrochlorothiazide
Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). This prevents angiotensin II from binding AT1 receptors, thereby precluding vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. This results in a decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in the reabsorption of sodium and water, and vasodilation of the efferent arteriole of the kidneys, which is considered renal protective. It also prevents ventricular remodeling and cardiac hypertrophy. HCTZ is a thiazide diuretic. It increases sodium and water excretion by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption at the distal tubules of the kidney. It has a diuretic effect at first, but also decreases peripheral vascular resistance over time (both of which decrease blood pressure).
Tolterodine
Tolterodine is an anticholinergic agent. It is a competitive inhibitor of muscarinic receptors, that is selective for urinary bladder receptors. Overall effects include an increase in residual urine volume and a decrease in detrusor muscle pressure.
Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide
HCTZ is a thiazide diuretic. It increases sodium and water excretion by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption at the distal tubules of the kidney. It has a diuretic effect at first, but also decreases peripheral vascular resistance over time (both of which decrease blood pressure). Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor. ACE normally converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. Reducing angiotension II leads to reduced aldosterone secretion, which decreases sodium and water resorption. ACE inhibitors also inhibit the degradation of the peptide bradykinin that stimulates the release of the vasodilator nitric oxide. The results include lower arteriolar resistance, increased venous capacity, and lower blood volume. Thus ACE inhibitors reduce cardiac preload, which alleviates heart congestion, and they reduce cardiac afterload, which enhances stroke volume and ejection fraction, and thereby precludes the ventricular remodeling associated with chronic HTN or a prior MI.
Norgestimate & Ethinyl Estradiol
The combination of the progestine norgestimate with ethinyl estradiol serves as a triphasic oral contraceptive. It inhibits ovulation through negative feedback on the hypothalamus. This alters gonadotropin secretion of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) by the anterior pituitary. It also may alter the cervical mucus, the endometrium, tubal transport, and sperm fertility.
Penicillin VK
Penicillin V is the oral form of Penicillin G. As a penicillin antibiotic, it binds to penicillin binding proteins (PBPs), which inhibits peptidoglycan synthesis in bacterial cell walls. This causes the bacteria to eventually lyse.
Codeine & Guaifenesin
Codeine is an antitussive. It depresses the medullary cough center. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It acts by irritating the gastric mucosa and stimulating secretions from the GI tract. This increases the volume and decrease the viscosity of respiratory fluid. Note: Drinking a glass of water w/ each dose can increase effectiveness.
Glyburide
Glyburide is a 2nd generation sulfonylurea. Sulfonylureas are secretagogues, so they stimulate insulin release from the beta cells of the pancreas. They also reduce glucose release from the liver and increase insulin sensitivity. Other 2nd generation sulfonylureas include glimepiride and glipizide. Glyburide is a longer-acting sulfonylurea and is associated with more hypoglycemia as compared to glimepiride and glipizide, so in general the latter are better options if a patient needs a sulfonylurea. Also, sulfonylureas give a about a 1 to 2% reduction in hemoglobin A1c.
Fluticasone Inhaler
Fluticasone is a corticosteroid. It acts locally, in the airways, when inhaled, having anti-inflammatory, immunosupressive, and anti-proliferative properties.
Rabeprazole
Rabeprazole is a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI). It inhibits H/K-ATPase in gastric parietal cells, which suppresses gastric acid secretion.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is a central nervous system stimulant. It is a prodrug. The active form is dextroamphetamine. It increases the amount of catecholamine, mainly dopamine and norepinephrine, circulating in the cerebral cortex and reticular activating system by causing their release from presynaptic nerve terminals (it also blocks their reuptake). Peripheral effects include increased blood pressure, bronchodilation, and increased respiration.
Isosorbide Mononitrate
Isosorbide mononitrate is a vasodilator. It forms free radical nitric oxide, which causes smooth muscle relaxation, vasodilation, and reduction in cardiac oxygen demand.
Lamotrigine
Lamotrigine is an anticonvulsant. It inhibits the release of glutamate, which is an excitatory amino acid, and it inhibits voltage-sensitive sodium channels, which normally stabilize neuronal membranes. It also weakly inhibits 5-HT3 (serotonin) receptors.
Olanzapine
Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic. It is a potent antagonist of serotonin 5-HT2A & 5HT2C, dopaine D1-4, histamine H1, and alpha1-adrenergic receptors. It is also a weak antagonist of muscarinic M1-5 receptors. Its mechanism is thought to work mainly through antagonism of dopamine and serotonin type 2 receptors.
Lovastatin
Lovastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, which is catalyzes the rate limiting step in cholesterol synthesis. This decreases the amount of cholesterol the body can produce, which results in an increase in LDL receptors on hepatocytes, thereby enhancing LDL clearance and catabolism.
Ethinyl Estradiol & Etonogestrel Vaginal Ring
The combination of ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel works through negative feedback at the hypothalamus to inhibit ovulation. It alters normal gonadotropin secretion of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and lutenizing hormone (LH) by the anterior pituitary. It also alters conditions in the genital tract, making it unfavorable for sperm penetration, even if ovulation occurs.
Bupropion
Bupropion is an antidepressant. It is a dopamine reuptake inhibitor and it also weakly inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine.
Doxycycline
Doxycycline is a tetracycline derivative antibiotic. It inhibits protein synthesis by binding to the 30S (and potentially the 50S) ribosomal subunit of bacteria.
Enalapril
Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor. It is actually a prodrug. Cleavage of the ester group, in the liver, converts it to its active, diacid metabolite, enalaprilat. ACE normally converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. Reducing angiotension II leads to reduced aldosterone secretion, which decreases sodium and water resorption. ACE inhibitors also inhibit the degradation of the peptide bradykinin that stimulates the release of the vasodilator nitric oxide. The results include lower arteriolar resistance, increased venous capacity, and lower blood volume. Thus ACE inhibitors reduce cardiac preload, which alleviates heart congestion, and they reduce cardiac afterload, which enhances stroke volume and ejection fraction, and thereby precludes the ventricular remodeling associated with chronic HTN or a prior MI.
Irbesartan
Irbesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). This prevents angiotensin II from binding AT1 receptors, thereby precluding vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. This results in a decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in the reabsorption of sodium and water, and vasodilation of the efferent arteriole of the kidneys, which is considered renal protective. It also prevents ventricular remodeling and cardiac hypertrophy.
Amphetamine & Dextroamphetamine
Amphetamines are non-catecholamine sympathomimetic amines that act as CNS stimulants. Amphetamines are thought to inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) while also increasing their release into the extraneuronal space.
Ibandronate
Ibandronate is a bisphosphonate. It inhibits osteoclasts, which decreases bone turnover and resorption.
Eszopiclone
Eszopiclone is an nonbenzodiazepine agonist of GABA-A receptors. It increases the affinity of the receptor for the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, thereby facilitating the opening of hyperpolarizing chloride ion channels in the CNS, resulting in sedative-hypnotic effects.
Ipratropium & Albuterol Inhaler
Ipratropium is an anticholinergic agent. It blocks acetylcholine from binding in the bronchial smooth muscle, which cause bronchodilation. Albuterol is a beta-2 agonist. It stimulates Beta-2 receptors, which relaxes bronchial smooth muscle.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is utilized in the body to form many coenzymes as well as in the maintenance of erythropoiesis, and WBC and platelet production. Folic acid can also enhance the elimination of formic acid, which is a toxic metabolite of methanol. Folic acid deficiency in pregnancy can lead to neural tube defects of the fetus. Because of this, it is important for any woman of childbearing age, especially one trying to become pregnant, to get adequate folic acid before becoming pregnant.
Meclizine
Meclizine is a 1st generation antihistamine and antiemetic. It blocks the chemoreceptor trigger zone via central anticholinergic action. It also decreases excitability and blocks conduction in the middle ear.
Ethinyl Estradiol & Norethindrone
Ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone is an estrogen and progestin combination contraceptive. Most of the work is done by the progestin, which is norethindrone. It thickens cervical mucus, which prevents sperm penetration. It slows tubal motility, which delays sperm transport. It can induce endrometrial atrophy and it blocks luteinizing hormone surge, which inhibits ovulation. It also has anti-mineralocorticoid activity, which results in less water and weight gain than other progestins and is anti-adrogenic, making it useful in treating acne vulgaris. The estrogen, ethinyl estradiol, mainly works to stabolize the endometrial lining and provide cycle control, but also suppresses the release of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary, which may aid in blocking the LH surge and help prevent ovulation.
Buprenorphine & Naloxone
Buprenorphine is an opioid analgesic. It binds mu opiate receptors in the CNS. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist. It competes and displaces narcotics from opioid receptor sites and it is an antidote used in opioid overdose.
Raloxifene
Raloxifene is a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM). It affects some, but not all, of the receptors that are acted upon by estrogen. It acts as an agonist on bone, preventing bone loss, but acts as an antagonist in breast and uterine tissue, where excess estrogen can lead to cancer.
Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Esters
Omega-3-acid ethyl esters consist predominately of a combination of ethyl esters of EPA and DHA. In the liver, EPA and DHA inhibit acyl-CoA, resulting in decreased triglyceride synthesis. They also upregulate fatty acid metabolism, increase triglyceride clearance, and decrease hepatic production of VLDL cholesterol. Omega-3 fatty acids decrease platlet aggregation, slightly reduce blood pressure and heart rate, and reduce sudden cardiac death.
Lidocaine Patch 5%
Lidocaine patch is thought to provide analgesia by inhibiting the firing of neuronal sodium channels of pain fibers directly beneath the patch.
Ramipril
Ramipril is an ACE inhibitor. It is actually a prodrug. Cleavage of the ester group, in the liver, converts ramipril to its active, diacid metabolite, ramiprilat. ACE normally converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. Reducing angiotension II leads to reduced aldosterone secretion, which decreases sodium and water resorption. ACE inhibitors also inhibit the degradation of the peptide bradykinin that stimulates the release of the vasodilator nitric oxide. The results include lower arteriolar resistance, increased venous capacity, and lower blood volume. Thus ACE inhibitors reduce cardiac preload, which alleviates heart congestion, and they reduce cardiac afterload, which enhances stroke volume and ejection fraction, and thereby precludes the ventricular remodeling associated with chronic HTN or a prior MI.
Benazepril
Benazepril is an ACE inhibitor. It is actually a prodrug. cleavage of the ester group, in the liver, converts benazepril to its active, diacid metabolite, benazeprilat. ACE normally converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. Reducing angiotension II leads to reduced aldosterone secretion, which decreases sodium and water resorption. ACE inhibitors also inhibit the degradation of the peptide bradykinin that stimulates the release of the vasodilator nitric oxide. The results include lower arteriolar resistance, increased venous capacity, and lower blood volume. Thus ACE inhibitors reduce cardiac preload, which alleviates heart congestion, and they reduce cardiac afterload, which enhances stroke volume and ejection fraction, and thereby precludes the ventricular remodeling associated with chronic HTN or a prior MI.
Verapamil
Verapamil is a non-DHP Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB). By inhibiting calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, non-DHP CCBs are moderate vasodilators (though not as potently as DHP CCBs in that regard). By inhibiting calcium channels in the heart, they also inhibit SA and AV node conduction, leading to negative chronotropic and inotropic effects, thereby lowering both heart rate and blood pressure. [Non-DHP CCBs are similar to beta blockers (BBs) in their effects on the heart.]
Ranitidine
Ranitidine is a competitive, reversible antagonist of H2 receptors on gastric parietal cells. By blocking the action of histamine, it reduces the production of gastric acid.