Pharmaceutical drug

"Medication" redirects here. For other uses, see Medication (disambiguation).

Comprehensive list of over 20,000 medications / pharmaceutical drugs sorted alphabetically. Please help add detailed information about each medication including their pharmacology, mechanism of action, indications, side effects, and other relevant information for each of these medications. Some of the useful resources for information including the Food and Drug Administration, Drug bank (Canada) and UK medicines info Also see the top 200 prescription drugs in US and drug classes.

List of pharmaceutical drugs/medications sorted alphabetically

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Pharmaceutical drugs

Introduction

A pharmaceutical drug, commonly referred to as a medicine or medication, is an official designation for a medicinal product. These drugs, which can be a single chemical substance or a combination of such substances, are formulated to aid in the medical diagnosis, cure, treatment, or prevention of various diseases.

File:Pharmaceutical Pills.jpg

Various pharmaceutical pills used for treatment.

Definition

Pharmaceutical drugs play a pivotal role in the field of modern medicine. They are substances that have undergone rigorous testing and research to ensure they effectively diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases without causing undue harm. While some drugs comprise a single active ingredient, many are combinations formulated to address multiple symptoms or conditions simultaneously.

Etymology

Origins

The word "pharmaceutical" finds its roots in ancient Greek. It is derived from the term pharmakeutikos, which can further be traced back to pharmakeutēs, meaning 'druggist', and pharmakon, denoting 'drug'. This etymology emphasizes the drug's role in medicine and its administration by professionals.

Classification

Pharmaceutical drugs can be broadly classified based on their use, method of administration, and the conditions they treat. Categories include:

• Analgesics: For pain management
• Antipyretics: To reduce fever
• Antibiotics: To treat bacterial infections
• Mood stabilizers: For managing mood disorders like bipolar disorder
• Antivirals: To treat viral infections

Classification

Drugs can be classified based on their origin, pharmacological properties, or therapeutic effects. Notable systems include the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System (ATC system). Additionally, the World Health Organization maintains a list of essential medicines.

By Origin

• Natural Origin: Drugs derived from herbal, plant, mineral, or marine sources.
• Chemical and Natural Origin: Products that are a combination of herbal and chemical synthesis. An example would be steroidal drugs.
• Chemical Synthesis: Drugs created entirely through chemical processes.
• Animal Origin: Such as hormones and enzymes.
• Microbial Origin: Including antibiotics.
• Biotechnology: Drugs developed through genetic engineering or the hybridoma technique.
• Radioactive Substances: Drugs derived from radioactive compounds.

By Pharmacological Properties

• Mode of Action: How the drug interacts on a molecular or cellular level.
• Pharmacological Activity: The observable effects a drug has on an organism or cell.

By Therapeutic Effects

Examples include:

• Antipyretics: Reduce fever.
• Analgesics: Act as painkillers.
• Antibiotics: Inhibit bacterial growth.
• Antiseptics: Prevent bacterial growth on external surfaces.
• Stimulants: Such as methylphenidate (Ritalin).
• Tranquilizers: Calm or sedate the user.
• Statins: Lower cholesterol levels.

Types of Medicines

Pharmaceuticals can also be categorized by the system of the body they treat.

Gastrointestinal Tract

• Medicines for the upper and lower digestive tracts, such as antacids and laxatives.

Cardiovascular System

• Includes β-receptor blockers, anticoagulants, and hypolipidaemic agents.

Central Nervous System

• Drugs here include antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anaesthetics.

Musculo-skeletal Disorders

• Treatments include NSAIDs and muscle relaxants.

Eye and Ear

• Ranging from antibacterial solutions to cerumenolytics for earwax removal.

Respiratory System

• Medications such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids.

Endocrine System

• Treatments like insulin for diabetes and thyroid hormones.

Reproductive and Urinary Systems

• Including antifungals and fertility medications.

Contraception and Obstetrics

• From hormonal contraceptives to treatments for obstetric issues.

Drug Discovery and Development

The processes of drug discovery and drug development are rigorous and costly. They involve collaboration between academic scientists, pharmaceutical companies, and government entities. Regulations determine which drugs can be marketed, their pricing, and methods of disposal. Controversies often arise over drug pricing and waste management.

Conclusion

Pharmaceutical drugs form the cornerstone of modern therapeutic practices, assisting healthcare professionals in treating and preventing a multitude of conditions. The development, testing, and regulation of these drugs ensure their efficacy and safety for the broader population.

See Also

• Drug discovery
• Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System
• World Health Organization
• Pharmacology

External Links

• US Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, SEC. 210., (321) - Definition of drug in the US

Pharmaceutical drug Resources
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Resources

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Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on Pharmaceutical drug for any updates.

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