Drug Classifications –Pharmacologic Groups or Families

Drug Classifications –Pharmacologic Groups or Families

1. chemical classification (ie prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor)

2. physiologic classification (effect) N.S.A.I.D.

3. therapeutic classification – clinical indication, why you use it (pain med., antipyretic, anti-inflammatory)

Sources of Drug Information – nurses need:

1. reliable, up to date drug reference information

2. awareness of reliable sources and the specific type of information provided in them

3. information on safe drug administration and new developments

Governmental Safeguards in drug development, manufacture, & distribution in the U.S.

1. standards for drug purity & content

2. legislation for drug safety & efficacy (effectiveness)

3. procedure for drug development & approval

4. legislation to promote truth in advertising

5. legislation regarding controlled substances

6. legislation regarding drug distribution

7. nongovernmental institutional controls