Drug
Basics
Basics
The official, non-proprietary name of a drug (e.g., Ibuprofen).
What is the Generic name?
A drug form enclosed in a gelatin shell that is easier to swallow than a tablet.
What is a Capsule?
The most common route, meaning "by mouth."
What is Oral (or PO)?
The "M" in ADME, which primarily takes place in the Liver.
What is Metabolism?
The primary organ involved in the "Distribution" phase of ADME.
What is the Heart?
The name owned by a specific manufacturer (e.g., Advil).
What is the Brand (or Trade) name?
A thick, sugary liquid medication often used for cough and cold.
What is a Syrup?
This route involves placing a tablet under the tongue for rapid absorption.
What is Sublingual (SL)?
The "E" in ADME, which primarily takes place in the Kidneys.
What is Excretion?
A drug form applied to the skin to achieve a systemic (whole-body) effect over time.
What is a Transdermal Patch?
This type of medication requires a doctor's order and cannot be bought over-the-counter.
What is a Prescription (or Rx) drug?
A semisolid, greasy preparation intended for external application to the skin.
What is an Ointment?
This parenteral route is injected directly into a vein for 100% absorption.
What is Intravenous (IV)?
The process of a drug entering the bloodstream from the site of administration.
What is Absorption?
This dosage form delivers medication directly to the lungs via a spray or mist.
What is an Inhalant?
A drug that can be purchased without a prescription (e.g., Tylenol).
What is an Over-the-Counter (OTC) drug?
This special tablet coating prevents the drug from dissolving in the stomach to protect the lining.
What is Enteric-Coated (EC)?
The general term for any route that bypasses the GI tract, usually via injection.
What is Parenteral?
The phenomenon where the liver destroys part of an oral drug before it reaches circulation.
What is the First-Pass Effect?
This parenteral route is injected into the fatty tissue, like insulin.
What is Subcutaneous (Sub-Q)?
The "why" behind taking a medication (e.g., Chest pain is the _______ for Nitroglycerin).
What is an Indication?
A mixture where drug particles are not dissolved but suspended in liquid; it MUST be shaken before use.
What is a Suspension?
The medical term for medication applied specifically to the eye.
What is Ophthalmic?
The percentage of a drug that actually reaches the bloodstream in an active form.
What is Bioavailability?
This category of drugs has the highest potential for abuse and is strictly regulated.
What are Scheduled (or Controlled) Drugs?