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Pharmacology for Nurses

Key Terms

Pharmacology for NursesKey Terms
angioedema
a reaction similar to hives that results in swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or larynx
anti-infectives
a class of drugs that work to prevent or treat infections
anticholinergics
a class of drugs that block the action of acetylcholine, thereby inhibiting nerve impulses responsible for involuntary muscle movements
antimuscarinics
a class of drugs that decrease smooth muscle motility in the urinary tract, increasing the tone of the urinary sphincter and controlling urination
antispasmodics
a class of drugs that are used to control spasms of the stomach, intestines, and bladder
asthenia
weakness; lack of energy or strength
benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
enlargement of the prostate gland
blood dyscrasias
a nonspecific term used to describe any blood-related diseases or conditions
erythema multiforme
a skin disorder characterized by bulls-eye–shaped lesions (a pink center surrounded by a pale border and outer pink ring) that are painful and itchy
exfoliative dermatitis
a skin condition that causes shedding of the top layer of skin
fulminant hepatic necrosis
severe, acute liver failure
interstitial cystitis
a disorder that causes the bladder to store urine before it is passed out of the body, resulting in bladder pain and pressure
phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors
a class of drugs primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction and, in some cases, pulmonary hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia
photosensitivity
an increased sensitivity to sunlight or artificial light
Stevens–Johnson syndrome
a rare and serious condition of the skin and mucous membranes that causes a painful rash and blisters; can be life-threatening
urinary analgesics
a class of drugs used to relieve pain and discomfort associated with the urinary tract
urinary retention
a condition in which the bladder does not completely empty; the sudden inability to urinate
urinary stimulants
a class of drugs that stimulate the smooth muscles of the urinary bladder
vasomotor response
systemic vasodilation resulting in vertigo and syncope with changes in body position
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