List of drugs: Z

List of drugs: Z is a comprehensive catalog encompassing pharmaceutical drugs, substances, and compounds identified by their names starting with the letter "Z". This list includes both generic and brand names of drugs used in medical practice. Drugs are categorized based on their therapeutic use, chemical structure, and mechanism of action. This article aims to provide an overview of these drugs, highlighting their uses, pharmacology, and potential side effects.

Zafirlukast

Zafirlukast is a medication used in the management and prevention of asthma. It functions as a leukotriene receptor antagonist, blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are substances in the body that can cause asthma symptoms. By doing so, zafirlukast helps to decrease inflammation, reduce bronchoconstriction, and prevent asthma attacks.

Zalcitabine

Zalcitabine, also known as ddC, is an antiretroviral drug used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. It belongs to the class of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), which work by blocking reverse transcriptase, an enzyme crucial for the replication of HIV. Zalcitabine is used in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the management of HIV infection.

Zaleplon

Zaleplon is a sedative-hypnotic medication primarily used for the short-term management of Insomnia. It falls under the class of drugs known as nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics, which act on the GABA receptors in the brain to produce a calming effect. Zaleplon is known for its quick onset of action and short duration, making it suitable for treating difficulty falling asleep.

Zanamivir

Zanamivir is an antiviral drug used in the treatment and prevention of Influenza. It is a neuraminidase inhibitor that blocks the function of the viral neuraminidase enzyme, preventing the release of new virus particles from infected cells. Zanamivir is administered via inhalation, allowing direct action on the respiratory tract.

Zidovudine

Zidovudine, also known as AZT, is another NRTI used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. It was one of the first drugs approved for the treatment of HIV. Zidovudine works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, thereby reducing the amount of HIV in the body. It is used in combination with other antiretroviral medications to delay the progression of HIV infection to AIDS.

Ziprasidone

Ziprasidone is an antipsychotic medication used in the treatment of Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It belongs to the class of atypical antipsychotics, which work by altering the effects of chemicals in the brain. Ziprasidone is effective in treating both positive symptoms (such as hallucinations and delusions) and negative symptoms (such as withdrawal and lack of emotion) of schizophrenia.

Zolpidem

Zolpidem is another nonbenzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic used for the treatment of insomnia. Similar to zaleplon, zolpidem acts on GABA receptors but is primarily used for maintaining sleep rather than initiating it. It is known for its rapid onset and is recommended for short-term use due to the risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Zonisamide

Zonisamide is a sulfonamide anticonvulsant and a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used in the treatment of Epilepsy. It is used in combination with other anticonvulsants to control partial seizures in adults. Zonisamide's mechanism of action is not fully understood but is believed to involve the inhibition of sodium and calcium channels, which helps to stabilize neuronal membranes and prevent seizures.

Conclusion

The list of drugs beginning with the letter "Z" encompasses a wide range of medications used to treat various conditions, from asthma and insomnia to HIV/AIDS and epilepsy. Each drug has a unique mechanism of action and therapeutic use, making it essential for healthcare professionals to understand these differences when prescribing medications.