Active ingredient
the biochemically active component of a drug that exerts a desired therapeutic effect.
Antiseptic
a substance that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms on the outside of the body to reduce the possibility of infection or contamination.
Drug
a medicinal substance or remedy used to change the way a living organism functions; also called a medication.
Synthesized drug
a drug created artificially in the laboratory but in imitation of a naturally occurring drug.
q4h
every 4 hours
ADR (Adverse Drug Reaction)
an unexpected or negative consequence from taking a particular drug.
Antiviral drugs
drugs that kill viruses, such as HIV.
Bioequivalent
a drug that delivers approximately the same amount of active ingredient into a healthy volunteer’s bloodstream in the same amount of time as the innovator or brand-name drug.
Semisynthetic drug
a drug that contains both natural and synthetic components.
susp
suspensio
Antibodies
the part of the immune system that neutralizes antigens or foreign substances in the body.
Aseptic technique
the manipulation of sterile products and devices to avoid contamination by disease-causing organisms; includes clean room protocols and hand-washing and gowning procedures.
Immunity
bodily processes to provide protection against disease.
Psychopharmaceutical drug
drugs used to treat mental health diseases, such as depression.
div
divide
Antigen
a foreign substance or toxin introduced into the body that stimulates an immune response.
Bactericidal agents
drugs that kill bacteria.
Vaccine
a substance used to stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity.
Prophylactic agents
drugs used to prevent disease, such as aspirin to prevent heart attacks.
q6h
every 6 hours
Antineoplastic drugs
cancer-fighting drugs.
Bioavailability
the time it takes for a generic drug to reach the bloodstream after administration.
Therapeutic agent
a drug that prevents, cures, diagnoses, or relieves symptoms of a disease.
Pharmacogenomics
a field of study that examines the relationship between an individual’s genes and their body’s response to drugs.
q8h
every 8 hours