Medication

Assorted medications

Medication, also referred to as medicine, is usually a drug or any other substance used to prevent or cure disease or to relieve pain, anxiety or any form of perceived discomfort, such as hunger. A drug, broadly speaking is any chemical substance that when absorbed into the body Pain, in the sense of physical pain, is a typical sensory experience that may be described as the unpleasant awareness of a noxious stimulus or bodily harm Anxiety is a physiological and psychological state characterized by Cognitive, Somatic, Emotional and Behavioral components Hunger is a feeling experienced usually followed by a desire to Eat. Medication is often used to mean the act of administering medicines or drugs. Other synonyms include pharmacotherapy, pharmacotherapeutics, drug treatment. Medication, also referred to as medicine, can be loosely defined as any substance intended for use in the diagnosis cure mitigation treatment or prevention of disease Drug treatment, that is: The administration of drugs with therapeutic intention, usually characterizes and distinguishes the practice of Medicine (and the Medical Specialties) from the art of Surgery (and its derived Surgical Specialties). This practical (more than theoretical) distinction if deeply rooted in the History of Medicine. All human societies have medical beliefs that provide explanations for birth, Death, and Disease. The science of administering drugs to humans in the clinical setting is termed clinical pharmacology. Pharmacology (from Greek grc φάρμακον pharmakon, "drug" and grc -λογία -logia) is the study of how Drugs The emphasis on drug treatment plays an essential role in distinguishing medical from surgical practice and patient practice.

Classification

Medication can be usually classified in various ways, e. g. by its chemical properties, mode of administration, or biological system affected. An elaborate and widely used classification system is the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System (ATC system). The Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System is used for the classification of drugs It is controlled by the WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug

Types of medicines:

Antipyretics : reducing fever (pyrexia)
Analgesics : painkillers
Anti-malarial drugs: treating malaria
Antibiotics : inhibiting germ growth
Antiseptics : prevention of germ growth near burns, cuts and wounds

Types of medication

For the gastrointestinal tract or digestive system

Upper digestive tract: antacids, reflux suppressants, antiflatulents, antidopaminergics, proton pump inhibitors, H2-receptor antagonists, cytoprotectants, prostaglandin analogues
Lower digestive tract: laxatives, antispasmodics, antidiarrhoeals, bile acid sequestrants, opioids

For the cardiovascular system

General: beta-receptor blocker, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, cardiac glycosides, antiarrhythmics, nitrate, antianginals, vasoconstrictor, vasodilator, peripheral activator
Affecting Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, alpha blocker
Coagulation: anticoagulant, heparin, antiplatelet drug, fibrinolytic, anti-hemophilic factor, haemostatic drugs
Atherosclerosis/cholesterol agents: hypolipidaemic agents, statins. Antipyretics are Drugs that reduce body temperature in situations such as Fever. Malaria is a vector -borne Infectious disease caused by Protozoan Parasites It is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions including Malaria is a vector -borne Infectious disease caused by Protozoan Parasites It is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions including In modern usage an antibiotic is a Chemotherapeutic agent with activity against Microorganisms such as Bacteria, fungi or Protozoa Antiseptics (from Greek αντί - anti, '"against" + σηπτικός - septikos, "putrefactive" are antimicrobial Digestion is the breaking down of chemicals in the body into a form that can be absorbed An antacid is any substance generally a base or Basic salt, which counteracts stomach acidity. A reflux suppressant is any one of a number of drugs used to combat Oesophageal reflux. An antiflatulent agent is a drug used for the alleviation or prevention of excessive intestinal gas i A dopamine antagonist is a drug which blocks Dopamine receptors by Receptor antagonism. Proton pump inhibitors (or "PPI"s are a group of drugs whose main action is pronounced and long-lasting reduction of Gastric acid production The H2-receptor antagonists (H2RA often shortened to H2 antagonist) are a class of drugs used to block the action of Histamine A cytoprotectant is any Medication that combats ulcers not by reducing Gastric acid but by increasing mucosal protection Synthetic prostaglandin analogues are molecules which are manufactured to bind to a Prostaglandin receptor. Laxatives (or purgatives) are foods compounds or drugs taken to induce bowel movements or to loosen the stool most often taken to treat Constipation. An antispasmodic (synonym spasmolytic) is a drug or an herb that suppresses Spasms These are usually caused by smooth Muscle contraction especially An anti-diarrheal drug is any Medication which provides symptomatic relief for diarrhea. The bile acid sequestrants are a group of medications used for binding certain components of Bile in the gastrointestinal tract. An opioid is a chemical Substance that has a Morphine -like action in the body This is an article about the rock music band "Circulatory System" Beta blockers (sometimes written as β-blocker) are a class of drugs used for various indications but particularly for the management of Cardiac arrhythmias Calcium channel blockers are a class of drugs and natural substances with effects on many excitable cells of the body like the muscle of the Heart, smooth muscles A diuretic is any Drug that elevates the rate of urination ( Diuresis) Cardiac glycosides are drugs used in the treatment of Congestive heart failure and cardiac Arrhythmia. Antiarrhythmic agents are a group of Pharmaceuticals that are used to suppress fast rhythms of the Heart ( Cardiac arrhythmias) such as Atrial fibrillation In Inorganic chemistry, a nitrate is a salt of Nitric acid with an Ion composed of one Nitrogen and three Oxygen atoms An antianginal is any drug used in the treatment of Angina pectoris, a symptom of ischaemic heart disease. Vasoconstriction is the narrowing of the blood vessels resulting from contraction of the muscular wall of the vessels particularly the large Arteries, Arterioles Antihypertensives are a class of drugs that are used in Medicine and Pharmacology to treat Hypertension (high blood pressure ACE inhibitors, or inhibitors of '''A'''ngiotensin-'''C'''onverting '''E'''nzyme, are a group of Pharmaceuticals that are used primarily in treatment of Hypertension Angiotensin II receptor antagonists, also known as angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs AT1-receptor antagonists or sartans, are a group of Alpha blockers (or adrenergic alpha-antagonists) are agents that act as antagonists of alpha adrenergic receptors Classification They can be divided An anticoagulant is a substance that prevents coagulation; that is it stops Blood from clotting Heparin, a highly-sulfated Glycosaminoglycan, is widely used as an injectable Anticoagulant and has the highest negative Charge density of any known An antiplatelet drug is a member of a class of pharmaceuticals that decreases Platelet aggregation and inhibits Thrombus formation Fibrinolysis is the process wherein a Fibrin clot, the product of Coagulation, is broken down Factor VIII (FVIII is an essential Clotting factor A deficiency of FVIII causes Hemophilia A, a bleeding disorder Hypolipidemic agents, or antihyperlipidemic agents, are a diverse group of pharmaceuticals that are used in the treatment of Hyperlipidemias They are called The statins (or HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) form a class of hypolipidemic drugs used to lower Cholesterol levels in people with or at risk of Cardiovascular

For the central nervous system

See also: Psychiatric medication

hypnotic, anaesthetics, antipsychotic, antidepressant (including tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitor, lithium salt, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), anti-emetic, anticonvulsant and antiepileptic, anxiolytic, barbiturate, movement disorder drug, stimulant (including amphetamines), benzodiazepine, cyclopyrrolone, dopamine antagonist, antihistamine, cholinergic, anticholinergic, emetic, cannabinoids, 5-HT antagonist

For pain & consciousness (analgesic drugs)

Further information: Analgesic

The main classes of painkillers are NSAIDs, opioids and various orphans such as paracetamol, tricyclic antidepressants and anticonvulsants. In Vertebrates the central nervous system ( CNS) is the part of the Nervous system which is enclosed in the Meninges. Psychiatric medication is a licenced Psychoactive drug taken to exert an effect on the Mental state and used to treat Mental disorders Usually utilized For the state of mind see Hypnosis. Hypnotic drugs induce Sleep (which differentiates them from the Sedative Anesthesia, or anaesthesia (see spelling differences; from Greek grc αν- an-, "without" and grc αἲσθησις Antipsychotics are a group of Psychoactive drugs commonly but not exclusively used to treat Psychosis, which is typified by Schizophrenia. An antidepressant is a Psychiatric medication used for alleviating major depression or Dysthymia ('milder' depression Tricyclic antidepressants (abbreviation TCAs) are a class of Antidepressant drugs first used in the 1950s Monoamine oxidase inhibitors ( MAOIs) are a class of powerful antidepressant drugs prescribed for the treatment of depression. Lithium in pharmacology refers to use of the Lithium Ion, Li+ as a drug Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ( SSRIs) are a class of Antidepressants used in the treatment of depression, Anxiety disorders An anti-emetic is a drug that is effective against Vomiting and Nausea. The anticonvulsants, also called antiepileptic drugs (abbreviated "AEDs" are a diverse group of pharmaceuticals used in the treatment of epileptic The anticonvulsants, also called antiepileptic drugs (abbreviated "AEDs" are a diverse group of pharmaceuticals used in the treatment of epileptic An anxiolytic is a drug prescribed for the treatment of Symptoms of Anxiety. Barbiturates are drugs that act as central nervous system Depressants and by virtue of this they produce a wide spectrum of effects from mild Sedation Stimulant drugs are Drugs that temporarily increase alertness and awareness Amphetamine, and related drugs such as Methamphetamine are a group of drugs that act by increasing levels of Norepinephrine, Serotonin, and Dopamine The benzodiazepines (pronounced, often abbreviated to "benzos") are a class of Psychoactive drugs with varying Hypnotic Cyclopyrrolones are a family of Hypnotic and Anxiolytic Nonbenzodiazepine drugs with similar pharmacological profiles to the Benzodiazepine derivatives A dopamine antagonist is a drug which blocks Dopamine receptors by Receptor antagonism. A histamine antagonist is an agent which serves to inhibit the release or action of Histamine. A receptor is cholinergic if it uses Acetylcholine as its Neurotransmitter. An anticholinergic agent is a substance that blocks the Neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the central and the Peripheral nervous system. Vomiting (also called throwing up, emesis) is the forceful expulsion of the contents of one's Stomach through the Mouth and sometimes the Cannabinoids ( are a group of terpeno[[phenol]]ic compounds present in Cannabis ( Cannabis sativa L Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, usually abbreviated to NSAID s or NAID s, are drugs with Analgesic, Antipyretic and in higher An opioid is a chemical Substance that has a Morphine -like action in the body Paracetamol ( INN) (ˌpærəˈsiːtəmɒl -ˈsɛtə- or acetaminophen ( USAN) is a widely-used Analgesic and Antipyretic Medication Tricyclic antidepressants (abbreviation TCAs) are a class of Antidepressant drugs first used in the 1950s The anticonvulsants, also called antiepileptic drugs (abbreviated "AEDs" are a diverse group of pharmaceuticals used in the treatment of epileptic

For musculo-skeletal disorders

NSAIDs (including COX-2 selective inhibitors), muscle relaxant, neuromuscular drug
anticholinesterase

For the eye

General: adrenergic neurone blocker, astringent, ocular lubricant
Diagnostic: topical anesthetics, sympathomimetics, parasympatholytics, mydriatics, cycloplegics
Anti-bacterial: antibiotics, topical antibiotics, sulfa drugs, aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones
Anti-viral:
Anti-fungal: imidazoles, polyenes
Anti-inflammatory: NSAIDs, corticosteroids
Anti-allergy: mast cell inhibitors
Anti-glaucoma: adrenergic agonists, beta-blockers, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors/hyperosmotics, cholinergics, miotics, parasympathomimetics, prostaglandin agonists/prostaglandin inhibitors. The muscular system is the anatomical system of a species that allows it to move In Biology, the skeleton is a strong and often a rigid framework that supports the body of an animal holding it upright and giving it shape and strength (Also skeletal Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, usually abbreviated to NSAID s or NAID s, are drugs with Analgesic, Antipyretic and in higher COX-2 selective inhibitor is a form of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID that directly targets COX-2, an Enzyme responsible for Inflammation This article refers to skeletal muscle relaxants For information on Smooth muscle relaxants see Antispasmodic. An acetylcholinesterase inhibitor or anti-cholinesterase is a chemical that inhibits the Cholinesterase enzyme from breaking down Acetylcholine Eyes are organs that detect Light, and send signals along the Optic nerve to the visual areas of the brain An astringent (also spelled adstringent) substance is a chemical that tends to shrink or constrict Body tissues usually locally after Topical medicinal A topical anesthetic is a Local anesthetic that is used to numb the surface of a body part Sympathomimetic drugs are substances that mimic the effects of the Catecholamines Epinephrine (adrenaline Norepinephrine (noradrenaline and/or A parasympatholytic element also referred to as anticholinergics, reduces the activity of the Parasympathetic nervous system. "Dilated pupil" redirects here An Eye examination sometimes requires the dilation of the pupil Cycloplegia is Paralysis of the Ciliary muscle of the Eye, resulting in a loss of accommodation. In modern usage an antibiotic is a Chemotherapeutic agent with activity against Microorganisms such as Bacteria, fungi or Protozoa In modern usage an antibiotic is a Chemotherapeutic agent with activity against Microorganisms such as Bacteria, fungi or Protozoa There are several sulfonamide-based groups of drugs The original antibacterial sulfonamides (sometimes called simply sulfa drugs are synthetic antimicrobial agents that contain the sulfonamide An aminoglycoside is a molecule composed of a sugar group and an Amino group The quinolones are a family of synthetic Broad-spectrum antibiotics. Imidazole is a Organic compound with the formula HC3H3N2 This Aromatic Heterocyclic is classified as an Alkaloid Polyenes are poly- unsaturated Organic compounds that contain one or more sequences of alternating double and single Carbon -carbon bonds Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, usually abbreviated to NSAID s or NAID s, are drugs with Analgesic, Antipyretic and in higher Corticosteroids are a class of Steroid hormones that are produced in the Adrenal cortex. A mast cell (or mastocyte) is a resident cell of several types of tissues and contains many granules rich in Histamine and Heparin Beta blockers (sometimes written as β-blocker) are a class of drugs used for various indications but particularly for the management of Cardiac arrhythmias Tonicity is a measure of blood capacity or effective osmolality in cell Biology. A receptor is cholinergic if it uses Acetylcholine as its Neurotransmitter. Miosis is Constriction of the Pupil of the Eye. This is a normal response to an increase in light but can also be associated with certain Pathological A parasympathomimetic drug is a drug or Poison that acts by stimulating or mimicking the Parasympathetic nervous system (PSNS nitroglycerin

For contraception

For obstetrics and gynecology

NSAIDs, anticholinergic, haemostatic drug, antifibrinolytic, Hormone Replacement Therapy, bone regulator, beta-receptor agonist, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinising hormone, LHRH
gamolenic acid, gonadotropin release inhibitor, progestogen, dopamine agonist, oestrogen, prostaglandin, gonadorelin, clomiphene, tamoxifen, Diethylstilbestrol

For the skin

emollient, anti-pruritic, antifungal, disinfectant, scabicide, pediculicide, tar products, vitamin A derivatives, vitamin D analogue, keratolytic, abrasive, systemic antibiotic, topical antibiotic, hormones, desloughing agent, exudate absorbent, fibrinolytic, proteolytic, sunscreen, antiperspirant, corticosteroid

For infections and infestations

antibiotic, antifungal, antileprotic, antituberculous drug, antimalarial, anthelmintic, amoebicide, antiviral, antiprotozoal

For immunology

vaccine, immunoglobulin, immunosuppressant, interferon, monoclonal antibody

For allergic disorders

anti-allergic, antihistamine, NSAIDs

For nutrition

tonic, iron preparation, electrolyte, parenteral nutritional supplement, vitamins, anti-obesity drug, anabolic drug, haematopoietic drug, food product drug

For neoplastic disorders

cytotoxic drug, sex hormones, aromatase inhibitor, somatostatin inhibitor, recombinant interleukins, G-CSF, erythropoietin

For diagnostics

contrast media

For euthanasia

An euthanaticum is used for euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide, see also barbiturates. Nitroglycerin ( NG) ( US spelling also known as nitroglycerine, ( UK Spelling trinitroglycerin, trinitroglycerine The Oropharynx ( oral part of the Pharynx) reaches from the Soft palate to the level of the Hyoid bone. Sympathomimetic drugs are substances that mimic the effects of the Catecholamines Epinephrine (adrenaline Norepinephrine (noradrenaline and/or A histamine antagonist is an agent which serves to inhibit the release or action of Histamine. An anticholinergic agent is a substance that blocks the Neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the central and the Peripheral nervous system. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, usually abbreviated to NSAID s or NAID s, are drugs with Analgesic, Antipyretic and in higher A steroid is a Terpenoid Lipid characterized by a Carbon skeleton with four fused rings generally arranged in a 6-6-6-5 fashion Antiseptics (from Greek αντί - anti, '"against" + σηπτικός - septikos, "putrefactive" are antimicrobial A local anesthetic is a drug that causes reversible Local anesthesia and a loss of Nociception. An antifungal drug is Medication used to treat fungal Infections such as Athlete's foot, Ringworm, Candidiasis (thrush In living organisms a respiratory system functions to allow Gas exchange. A bronchodilator is a substance that dilates the bronchi and Bronchioles decreasing airway resistance and thereby facilitating airflow Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, usually abbreviated to NSAID s or NAID s, are drugs with Analgesic, Antipyretic and in higher A cough medicine is a medicinal drug used to treat Coughing and related conditions A mucolytic agent is any agent which dissolves thick Mucus usually used to help relieve respiratory difficulties A decongestant is a broad class of Medications used to relieve Nasal congestion. Corticosteroids are a class of Steroid hormones that are produced in the Adrenal cortex. Beta blockers (sometimes written as β-blocker) are a class of drugs used for various indications but particularly for the management of Cardiac arrhythmias An anticholinergic agent is a substance that blocks the Neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the central and the Peripheral nervous system. A steroid is a Terpenoid Lipid characterized by a Carbon skeleton with four fused rings generally arranged in a 6-6-6-5 fashion The endocrine system is an integrated system of small organs that involve the release of extracellular signaling molecules known as Hormones The endocrine system is instrumental Androgen is the generic term for any natural or synthetic compound usually a Steroid Hormone, that stimulates or controls the development and maintenance of masculine An antiandrogen, or androgen antagonist, is any of a group of Hormone Receptor antagonist compounds that are capable of preventing or inhibiting the biologic Gonadotropins are Protein Hormones secreted by Gonadotrope cells of the Pituitary gland of Vertebrates Gonadotropin is sometimes Corticosteroids are a class of Steroid hormones that are produced in the Adrenal cortex. Growth hormone ( GH) is a Peptide hormone that stimulates growth and cell reproduction in humans and other animals Insulin is a Hormone with intensive effects on both metabolism and several other body systems (eg vascular compliance Anti-diabetic drugs treat Diabetes mellitus by lowering Glucose levels in the blood Sulfonylurea (UK Sulphonylurea derivatives are a class of Antidiabetic drugs that are used in the management of Diabetes mellitus type 2 ("adult-onset" Biguanide can refer to a molecule or to a class of drugs based upon this molecule Metformin ( INN; trade names Glucophage, Riomet, Fortamet, Glumetza, Obimet, Dianben, Diabex, The Medication class of thiazolidinedione (also called glitazones) was introduced in the late 1990s as an adjunctive therapy for Diabetes mellitus (type Insulin is a Hormone with intensive effects on both metabolism and several other body systems (eg vascular compliance The thyroid hormones, Thyroxine ( T4) and Triiodothyronine ( T3) are Tyrosine -based Hormones produced Calcitonin is a 32-amino acid linear polypeptide Hormone that is produced in Humans primarily by the parafollicular (also known as C-cells of the In Pharmacology, bisphosphonates (also called diphosphonates) are a class of drugs that inhibit Osteoclast action and the resorption of bone Vasopressin analogues are chemicals similar in function but not necessarily similar in structure to Vasopressin (ADH such as Desmopressin. The reproductive system is a system of organs within an Organism which work together for the purpose of Reproduction. The urinary system (also called Excretory system or the genitourinary system (GUS is the Organ system that produces stores and eliminates Urine. An antifungal drug is Medication used to treat fungal Infections such as Athlete's foot, Ringworm, Candidiasis (thrush The quinolones are a family of synthetic Broad-spectrum antibiotics. In modern usage an antibiotic is a Chemotherapeutic agent with activity against Microorganisms such as Bacteria, fungi or Protozoa A receptor is cholinergic if it uses Acetylcholine as its Neurotransmitter. An anticholinergic agent is a substance that blocks the Neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the central and the Peripheral nervous system. An acetylcholinesterase inhibitor or anti-cholinesterase is a chemical that inhibits the Cholinesterase enzyme from breaking down Acetylcholine An antispasmodic (synonym spasmolytic) is a drug or an herb that suppresses Spasms These are usually caused by smooth Muscle contraction especially Sildenafil citrate, sold as Viagra, Revatio and under various other trade names is a drug used to treat Erectile dysfunction (male impotence Fertility medication is medication that enhances Fertility. For women fertility medication is used to stimulate follicle development of the Ovary. Birth control, sometimes synonymous with contraception, is a regimen of one or more actions devices or Medications followed in order to deliberately prevent Hormonal contraception refers to Birth control methods that act on the hormonal system Ormeloxifene (also known as Centchroman) is one of the Selective estrogen receptor modulators or SERMs a class of medication which acts on the estrogen receptor Spermicide is a substance that kills sperm, inserted vaginally prior to intercourse to prevent pregnancy As per the discussion in the Talk page there has been no consensus as to using the American (gynecology or British (gynaecology spelling for this article BUT Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, usually abbreviated to NSAID s or NAID s, are drugs with Analgesic, Antipyretic and in higher An anticholinergic agent is a substance that blocks the Neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the central and the Peripheral nervous system. Hormone replacement therapy may refer to Hormone replacement therapy (menopause Hormone replacement therapy (female-to-male Follicle-stimulating hormone ( FSH) is a Hormone synthesized and secreted by Gonadotropes in the Anterior pituitary gland. Luteinizing hormone ( LH, also known as lutropin) is a Hormone produced by the Anterior pituitary gland. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone ( GNRH) also known as Luteinizing-hormone releasing hormone ( LHRH) is a tropic Peptide Hormone γ -Linolenic acid ( gamma-linolenic acid or GLA, sometimes called gamolenic acid) is an Essential fatty acid found primarily in Progestagens (also spelled progestogens or gestagens) are Hormones that produce effects similar to those of Progesterone, the only natural progestagen A dopamine agonist is a compound that activates Dopamine receptors mimicking the effect of the neurotransmitter Dopamine. Estrogens (US otherwise oestrogens or œstrogens) are a group of Steroid compounds named for their importance in the Estrous cycle, A prostaglandin is any member of a group of Lipid compounds that are derived enzymatically from Fatty acids and have important functions in the Animal body Gonadotropin-releasing hormone ( GNRH) also known as Luteinizing-hormone releasing hormone ( LHRH) is a tropic Peptide Hormone Clomifene ( INN) or clomiphene ( USAN and former BAN) or Clomid or Clomifert is a Selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM Tamoxifen is an orally active Selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM that is used in the treatment of Breast cancer and is currently the world's largest Diethylstilbestrol ( DES) is a drug, an orally active synthetic nonsteroidal Estrogen that was first synthesized in 1938 The skin is the outer covering of living tissue of an animal (or plant Emollients are substances that soften and soothe the Skin. They are used to correct dryness and scaling of the skin Antipruritics, also known as anti-itch drugs, are Medications that inhibit the Itching (Latin Pruritus) that is often associated with Sunburns An antifungal drug is Medication used to treat fungal Infections such as Athlete's foot, Ringworm, Candidiasis (thrush Disinfectants are Antimicrobial agents that are applied to non-living objects to destroy Microorganisms, the process of which is known as disinfection. The retinoids are a class of Chemical compounds that are related chemically to Vitamin A. Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble Prohormones, the two major forms of which are vitamin D2 (or Ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (or Keratolytic (ˌkɛrətoʊˈlɪtɨk therapy is treatment to remove Warts and other lesions in which the epidermis produces excess skin An abrasive is a material often a Mineral, that is used to shape or finish a workpiece through rubbing which leads to part of the workpiece being worn away In modern usage an antibiotic is a Chemotherapeutic agent with activity against Microorganisms such as Bacteria, fungi or Protozoa In Medicine, a topical Medication is applied to body surfaces such as the Skin or Mucous membranes for example the Vagina In modern usage an antibiotic is a Chemotherapeutic agent with activity against Microorganisms such as Bacteria, fungi or Protozoa Hormones (from Greek ὁρμή - "impetus" are chemicals released by cells that affect cells in other parts of the body Fibrinolysis is the process wherein a Fibrin clot, the product of Coagulation, is broken down Proteolysis is the directed degradation ( digestion) of Proteins by cellular Enzymes called Proteases or by intramolecular digestion Sunscreen (also known as sunblock or suntan lotion) is a Lotion, spray or other Topical product that absorbs or reflects the Sun 's Deodorants are substances applied to the body particularly the Armpits mainly to reduce Body odor caused by the bacterial breakdown of Perspiration. Corticosteroids are a class of Steroid hormones that are produced in the Adrenal cortex. In modern usage an antibiotic is a Chemotherapeutic agent with activity against Microorganisms such as Bacteria, fungi or Protozoa An antifungal drug is Medication used to treat fungal Infections such as Athlete's foot, Ringworm, Candidiasis (thrush Anthelmintics or antihelminthics are drugs that expel parasitic Worms ( Helminths) from the body by either stunning or killing them Antiprotozoal agents ( ATC code ATC P01 is a class of Pharmaceuticals used in treatment of Protozoan infection. Immunology is a broad branch of biomedical Science that covers the study of all aspects of the Immune system in all Organisms It deals with A vaccine is a biological preparation which is used to establish or improve immunity to a particular disease Antibodies (also known as immunoglobulins, abbreviated Ig) are Gamma globulin Proteins that are found in Blood or other Bodily An immunosuppressant is a substance that performs Immunosuppression of the Immune system. Interferons ( IFN s are natural Proteins produced by the cells of the Immune system of most Vertebrates in response to challenges by foreign agents Monoclonal antibodies ( mAb or moAb) are monospecific antibodies that are identical because they are produced by one type of immune cell Allergy is a disorder of the Immune system often also referred to as Atopy. A histamine antagonist is an agent which serves to inhibit the release or action of Histamine. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, usually abbreviated to NSAID s or NAID s, are drugs with Analgesic, Antipyretic and in higher An electrolyte is any substance containing free Ions that behaves as an electrically conductive medium A vitamin is an Organic compound required as a Nutrient in tiny amounts by an Organism. Anti-obesity drugs or weight loss drugs refer to all pharmacological agents that reduce or control weight. Antineoplastics (or "antitumor antibiotics" or "noncovalent DNA-binding drugs" or " Cytotoxic antibiotics" see also Neoplastics are Sex steroids, also known as gonadal steroids, are Steroid hormones that interact with Vertebrate Androgen or Estrogen receptors Aromatase inhibitors ( AI) are a class of drugs used in the treatment of Breast cancer and Ovarian cancer in postmenopausal women that Interleukins are a group of Cytokines (secreted Signaling molecules) that were first seen to be expressed by White blood cells ( Leukocytes hence Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor ( G-CSF or GCSF) is a Colony-stimulating factor hormone Erythropoietin (ɨˌɹɪθɹoʊˈpɔɪɨtɨn /ɨˌɹɪθɹoʊˈpɔɪtən/ or /ɨˌɹiːθɹoʊ-/ or EPO is a Glycoprotein Hormone that controls RadiocontrastIn a medical setting a contrast medium is any Substance that is used to enhance the visibility of structures or fluids within the body Euthanasia (literally "good death" in Ancient Greek) refers to the practice of ending a life in a painless manner Barbiturates are drugs that act as central nervous system Depressants and by virtue of this they produce a wide spectrum of effects from mild Sedation

Euthanasia is not permitted by law in many countries, and consequently medicines will not be licenesed for this use in those countries.

Legal considerations

Medications may be divided into over-the-counter drugs (OTC) which may be available without special restrictions, and prescription only medicine (POM), which must be prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner. Over-the-counter (OTC drugs are medicines that may be sold without a prescription, in contrast to Prescription drugs The name "over-the-counter" A prescription drug is a licensed medicine that is regulated by legislation to require a prescription before it can be obtained The precise distinction between OTC and prescription depends on the legal jurisdiction. In Law, jurisdiction (from the Latin ius iuris meaning "law" and dicere meaning "to speak" is the practical Authority

The International Narcotics Control Board of the United Nations imposes a world law of prohibition of certain medications. The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB is the independent and quasi-judicial control organ for the implementation of the United Nations drug conventions The United Nations ( UN) is an International organization whose stated aims are to facilitate cooperation in International law, International security Prohibition of alcohol, often referred to simply as prohibition, also known as Noble Experiment, refers to a Sumptuary law which prohibits Alcohol They publish a lengthy list of chemicals and plants whose trade and consumption (where applicable) is forbidden. OTC medications are sold without restriction as they are considered safe enough that most people will not hurt themselves accidentally by taking it as instructed. Many countries, such as the United Kingdom have a third category of pharmacy medicines which can only be sold in registered pharmacies, by or under the supervision of a pharmacist. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located Pharmacists are Health professionals who practice the art and science of Pharmacy.

Other/related topics

Polypharmacy: suggests that multiple use of prescribed and non-prescribed medications, (use of 5 or more), can have adverse effects on the recipient. The term polypharmacy generally refers to the use of multiple Medications by a patient

Zoopharmacognosy: Animal usage of drugs and non-foods. Zoopharmacognosy refers to the process by which Animals self-medicate, by selecting and utilizing Plants Soils and Insects to treat

Blockbuster drug

A blockbuster drug is a drug generating more than $1 billion of revenue for its owner each year. The search for blockbusters has been the foundation of the R&D strategy adopted by big pharmaceutical companies, but this looks set to change. New advances in genomics, and the promise of personalized medicine, are likely to fragment the pharmaceutical market. Genomics is the study of an organism's entire Genome. The field includes intensive efforts to determine the entire DNA sequence of organisms and fine-scale Genetic Personalized medicine is the concept that information about an patient's Genotype or Gene expression profile could be used to tailor medical care to an individual's

A recent report from Urch Publishing estimated that about one third of the pharma market by value is accounted for by blockbusters. About 100 products are blockbusters. The top seller was Lipitor, a cholesterol-lowering medication marketed by Pfizer with sales of $12. Pfizer Incorporated ( is a major Pharmaceutical company, which ranks number one in the world in sales 2 billion.

Leading blockbuster drugs

Medication	Trade name	Company	Sales^[1] ^[2] (billion $), year
atorvastatin	Lipitor	Pfizer	5. Atorvastatin ( INN) (əˌtɔrvəˈstætən (marketed under the name Lipitor, Lipidra Aztor Torvatin Sortis Torvast Torvacard Totalip Tulip Xarator Pfizer Incorporated ( is a major Pharmaceutical company, which ranks number one in the world in sales 9 <
clopidogrel	Plavix	Bristol-Myers Squibb and sanofi-aventis	5. Clopidogrel is a potent oral antiplatelet agent often used in the treatment of Coronary artery disease, Peripheral vascular disease, and Cerebrovascular Bristol-Myers Squibb ( colloquially referred to as BMS, is a Pharmaceutical Corporation, formed by a 1989 merger between pharmaceutical companies Sanofi-Aventis () headquartered in Paris, France, is a multinational pharmaceutical company 9 2005
enoxaparin	Lovenox or Clexane	sanofi-aventis
celecoxib	Celebrex	Pfizer	2. Enoxaparin is a Low molecular weight heparin manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis. Sanofi-Aventis () headquartered in Paris, France, is a multinational pharmaceutical company Celecoxib ( INN) (sɛlɨˈkɒksɪb is a Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID used in the treatment of Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis Pfizer Incorporated ( is a major Pharmaceutical company, which ranks number one in the world in sales 3 2007
omeprazole	Losec/Prilosec	AstraZeneca	2. Omeprazole ( INN) (oʊˈmɛprəzoʊl is a Proton pump inhibitor used in the treatment of Dyspepsia, peptic ulcer disease (PUD Gastroesophageal AstraZeneca PLC (,) is a large Anglo-Swedish Pharmaceutical company formed on 6 April 1999 by the remerger of Swedish Astra AB 6 2004
esomeprazole	Nexium	AstraZeneca	3. AstraZeneca PLC (,) is a large Anglo-Swedish Pharmaceutical company formed on 6 April 1999 by the remerger of Swedish Astra AB 3 2003
Fexofenadine	Telfast/Allegra	Aventis	1. Fexofenadine hydrochloride (brand names include Allegra and Telfast) is an Antihistamine drug used in the treatment of Hayfever Aventis was a pharmaceutical and lab assay testing company It was formed in 1999 when Rhône-Poulenc S 87 2004
quetiapine	Seroquel	AstraZeneca	1. Quetiapine ( kwe-TYE-a-peen marketed by AstraZeneca as Seroquel and by Orion Pharma as Ketipinor, is an Atypical antipsychotic AstraZeneca PLC (,) is a large Anglo-Swedish Pharmaceutical company formed on 6 April 1999 by the remerger of Swedish Astra AB 5 2003
metoprolol	Seloken/Toprol	AstraZeneca	1. Metoprolol is a selective β1 receptor blocker used in treatment of several diseases of thecardiovascular system especially Hypertension. AstraZeneca PLC (,) is a large Anglo-Swedish Pharmaceutical company formed on 6 April 1999 by the remerger of Swedish Astra AB 3 2003
budesonide	Pulmicort/Rhinocort	AstraZeneca	1. Budesonide is a Glucocorticoid Steroid for the treatment of Asthma, non-infectious Rhinitis (including Hay fever and other allergies AstraZeneca PLC (,) is a large Anglo-Swedish Pharmaceutical company formed on 6 April 1999 by the remerger of Swedish Astra AB 3 2003 (plus some fraction of the $0. 6bn sales of Symbicort)

References

^ Pharmaceutical Market Trends, 2006-2010, from Urch Publishing [1]
^ Blockbuster Drugs 2006: Executive Overview, from Report Buyer[2]

External links

WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
Database of registered pharmaceuticals in Hong Kong
Consumer drug information from the FDA
Innovation's list of important pharmaceutical discoverers since 1987
Medicine at the Open Directory Project
IPHA Medicines Compendium
www.medicines.org.uk Up-to-date medicines information from the pharmaceutical industry and other sources
The Pharma Guide of Pakistan
World Pharma News

Budesonide/formoterol is a combination formulation containing Budesonide and Formoterol used in the management of Asthma and Chronic obstructive pulmonary This multi-page article lists drugs alphabetically by name Many drugs have more Bioburden or microbial limit testing is performed on pharmaceutical products and medical products as a Quality control measure Compliance (or Adherence) is a medical term that is used to indicate a patient's correct following of medical advice Herbalism is a traditional Medicinal or Folk medicine practice based on the use of Plants and Plant extracts Herbalism is also known as A prescription (℞ is a health-care program implemented by a Physician or other medical practitioner in the form of instructions that govern the plan of care for an individual Medicine is the art and science of healing It encompasses a range of Health care practices evolved to maintain and restore Human Health by the In its original application " nocebo " had a very specific meaning in the medical domains of Pharmacology, and Nosology, and Etiology. Patient safety is a new healthcare discipline that emphasizes the reporting analysis and prevention of Medical error that often lead to adverse healthcare events Pharmacology (from Greek grc φάρμακον pharmakon, "drug" and grc -λογία -logia) is the study of how Drugs Placebo is a substance or procedure a patient accepts as medicine or therapy but which has no specific therapeutic activity Modern pharmaceutical manufacturing techniques frequently rely upon Biotechnology. A vaccine is a biological preparation which is used to establish or improve immunity to a particular disease The Open Directory Project ( ODP) also known as dmoz (from directory

Dictionary

-noun

A medicine, or all the medicines regularly taken by a patient
The administration of medicine

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