Pharmacology

Mnemonics for the

Family Nurse
Practitioner

Nachole Johnson

Illustrated by Murhiel Caberte

 Copyright 2017 Nachole Johnson and ReNursing Publishing Company.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Disclaimer
Although the author and publisher have made every effort to ensure the information
provided in this book were correct at press time, the author and publisher do not
assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or
disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from
negligence, accident, or any other cause.
This book is not intended as the substitute for the legal advice or consultation of
attorneys. The reader should regularly consult an attorney in matters relating to his/her
business that may require legal advisement.
All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed,
more transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or
other electronic or means, including photocopying, recording, or any other electronic
or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except
in no commercial use permitted uses permitted by copyright law.
ISBN-13: 978-1548378165

ISBN-10: 154837816X
Printed in the United States of America
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
 Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 WHY I WROTE THIS BOOK
CHAPTER 2 PHARMACOLOGY PEARLS
Common Medication Classifications and Actions
Pharmacology Suffixes
CHAPTER 3 CARDIOLOGY
ACE inhibitor side effects (CAPTOPRIL)
Beta blockers:
Ca++ Channel Blockers: Uses- CA++ MASH:
Antiarrhythmic: Classification
CHAPTER 4 PULMONARY
Pulmonary Infiltrations Inducing Drugs "Go BAN Me!"
Antibiotics for TB
CHAPTER 5 ANTIBIOTICS/ANTIVIRALS
Sulfonamide: Major Side Effects….SSSS
Vancomycin - "A Red Van Drove Into The Wall"
Amphotericin Toxicities: AMPHOTERICIN B
Tricyclic Antidepressants:
Depression: 5 Drugs Causing It: PROMS
Benzodiazapines
MAOIs: Indications MAOI'S:
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors:
Lithium: Side Effects LITH:
CHAPTER 6 PAIN
NSAID Contraindications
Names of Common NSAIDS: CAIN
Morphine: Effects MORPHINES:
 Opioids: µ-Receptor Effects "MD CARES":
Opioids: Effects BAD AMERICANS:
Narcotic Antagonists
Morphine: Effects At mu -Receptor PEAR:
Aspirin: Side Effects ASPIRIN:
CHAPTER 7 ENDOCRINE/IMMUNOLOGY
Side Effects Of Systemic Corticosteroids (CORTICOSTEROIDS)
Steroid Side Effects CUSHINGOID:
Steroids (6 S’s)
Steroids: Side Effects BECLOMETHASONE:
Drugs to Use in Rheumatoid Arthritis: MS. AHILA
Busulfan: Features ABCDEF:
Antirheumatic Agents (Disease Modifying):
Auranofin, Aurothioglucose: Category And Indication
Enzyme Inhibitors: “SICKFACES.COM
Lupus: Drugs Inducing It.
HIP:
CHAPTER 8 GI/LIVER
Zero Order Kinetics Drugs (most common ones) "PEAZ (sounds like
pees) out a constant amount":
Hepatic Necrosis: Drugs Causing Focal To Massive Necrosis
Principles of management in toxicology
8 A’s for Hepatotoxic Drugs
Inhibitors of p450:
Inhibitors Stop Cute Kids from Eating Grapefruit.
CHAPTER 9 GU/REPRODUCTIVE
Diuretics:
Osmotic Diuretics: Members GUM:
Teratogenic Drugs "W/ TERATOgenic":
Gynecomastia-Causing Drugs DISCO:
Sex Hormone Drugs: Male "Feminine Males Need Testosterone":
Teratogenic Drugs: Major Non-Antibiotics TAP CAP:
Don’t Use 'Safe CT' in Pregnancy
Drugs Causing Erectile Dysfunction
CHAPTER 10 HEMATOLOGY
Drugs That Potentiate Warfarin (O DEVICES)
Drugs That Decrease The Effectiveness Of Warfarin (PC BRAS)
Thrombolytic Agents USA:
Warfarin: Action, Monitoring - We PT:
Warfarin: Metabolism SLOW:
Lead poisoning: presentation ABCDEFG:
CHAPTER 11 NEURO
Side Effects Of Sodium Valproate (VALPROATE)
Antimuscarinics: Members, Action
CARE Drugs To Treat Alzheimer’s
Muscarinic effects SLUG BAM:
Epilepsy Types, Drugs Of Choice:
Migraine: Prophylaxis Drugs
Neostigmine, on the Contrary, Is:
Phenytoin: adverse effects PHENYTOIN:
Anticholinergic Side Effects
Myasthenia Gravis: Edrophonium Vs. Pyridostigmine
Cholinergics (e.g. Organophosphates): Effects
Methyldopa:
Botulism Toxin: Action, Related Bungarotoxin
REFERENCES
 Chapter 1
Why I Wrote This Book
There’s a lot to learn while you are in nurse practitioner school. Because of the time
pressure, I really appreciated anything that would help me get through school. I’ve
always been a visual learner, and it is easy for me to pick up information if I draw out
pictures or play with words to make learning a complex issue easier. I loved using
mnemonics when I was in nursing school, and that continued when I went to graduate
school for my Family Nurse Practitioner degree.
I found it was easy for me to remember silly sayings during the test that would remind
me of the right answer. Turns out, many other people like mnemonics too! I decided
to write a book specifically for the Nurse Practitioner field. Pharmacology Mnemonics
for the Nurse Practitioner is a general guide to pharmacology, meaning it will help
you no matter your specialty. It is a bit of a cross between what you would expect
from a book for nurses and one geared toward physicians.
Use this book as a guide to memorize common concepts and as a refresher for ones
you haven't used in a while. Even when you are out of school and in practice, it is
sometimes difficult to remember a concept you haven't used since the final exam. This
is normal and happens to nurse practitioners and physicians alike. I still use silly
mnemonics to remember things like the cranial nerves “On Old Olympus Towering
Tops A Fin And German Viewed Some Hops,” anyone?
Use this book while you are in school and as a refresher when you finish. I’ve
included extras for Nurse Practitioners like common pharmacological abbreviations,
medication classifications, and medication antidotes. Have fun, learn, and enjoy!
 Chapter 2
Pharmacology Pearls

Pharmacology Abbreviations
ā before
ac before meals
AD right ear
AS left ear
AU both ears
bid twice a day

with
cap capsule
EC enteric-coated
elix elixir
h or hr hour
hs hour of sleep
IM intramuscular
IV intravenous
IVP intravenous push
NG nasogastric
npo nothing by mouth
OD right eye
oint ointment
os mouth
OTC over-the-counter
OS left eye
OU both eyes

after
pc after meals
per by
po by mouth
pr per rectum
prn as needed
q every
q1h every 1 hour
q2h every 2 hours
q3h every 3 hours
q4h every 4 hours
q6h every 6 hours
q8h every 8 hours
qd every day
qh every hour
qid four times a day

without
SL Sublingual
SR sustained release
supp suppository
syr syrup
tab tablet
tid three times a day

www.jointcommission.org
 Routes of Entry:
Most Rapid Ways Meds/Toxins Enter Body
“Stick it, Sniff it, Suck it, Soak it”:
Stick = Injection
Sniff = Inhalation
Suck = Ingestion
Soak = Absorption
 Common Medication Classifications and Actions
Antacids- Reduce hydrocholoric acid located in the stomach
Antianemics- Increases the production of red blood cells
Anticholinergics- Decreases oral secretions
Anticoagulants- Prevents the formation of clots
Anticonvulsants- Management of seizures or bipolar disorders
Antidiarrheals- Reduce water in bowels and gastric motility
Antihistamines- Block the release of histamine
Antihypertensives- Decreases blood pressure
Anti-infectives- To get rid of infections
Broncholdilators- Dilates the bronchi and bronchioles
Diuretics- Increase excretion of water/sodium from the body
Laxatives- Loosens stools and increases bowel movements
Miotics- Constricts pupils of the eye
Mydriatics- Dilates the pupils
Narcotics/analgesics- Relieves pain
 Pharmacology Suffixes
-amil: calcium channel blockers
-caine: local anesthetics
-cycline: antibiotics
-dine: anti-ulcer agents (H2 histamine blockers)
-done: opioid analgesics
-ine: antidepressants, calcium channel blockers
-ide: oral hypoglycemics
-pam: anti-anxiety agents
-oxacin: broad spectrum antibiotics
-micin: antibiotics
-mide: diuretics
-mycin: antibiotics
-nuim: neuromuscular blockers
-olol: beta blockers
-pam: anti-anxiety agents
-pine: calcium channel blockers
-pril: ace inhibitors
-sone: steroids
-statin: antihyperlipidemics
-vir: anti-virals
-xacin: antibiotics
-zide: diuretics
-zine: antipsychotics
 Viral Drugs- "-vir at start, middle or end means virus": ·
Example Drugs:
Abacavir Norvir
Acyclovir Oseltamivir
Amprenavir Penciclovir
Cidofovir Ritonavir
Denavir Saquinavir
Efavirenz Valacyclovir
Indavir Viracept
Invirase Viramune
Famvir Zanamivir
Ganciclovir Zovirax
Additional Conversions:
2.2 lbs = 1 kg
15 gr = 1 g = 1,000 mg
1 gal = 4 qt= 128 oz = 400 mL
1 pt = 16 oz = 480 mL
2 Tbsp = 1 oz = 8 dr = 30 mL
15 gtt = 15 minum = 1 mL= 1 cc
1 lb = 16 oz
1 gr = 65 mg
1 qt = 2 pt
1 L = 1,000 mL
1 cup = 8 oz = 240 mL
1 tsp= 60 gtt 1 dr = 4 mL
1 gtt = 1 minim
1 oz = 30 g
1 mg = 1,000 mcg
Therapeutic dosage: toxicity values for most commonly
monitored medications
"The magic 2s":
Digitalis (.5-1.5) Toxicity = 2.
Lithium (.6-1.2) Toxicity = 2.
Theophylline (10-20) Toxicity = 20.
Dilantin (10-20) Toxicity = 20.
APAP (1-30) Toxicity = 200.
 Chapter 3
Cardiology
ACE inhibitor side effects (CAPTOPRIL)
Cough
Angioedema
Proteinuria
Taste disturbance/ Teratogenic in 1st trimester
Other (fatigue, headache)
Potassium increased
Renal impairment
Itch
Low BP (1st dose)
Alternative - CRAP PILOT
C ough
R enal impairment
A naphylaxis
P alpitations

P otassium elevated
I mpotence
L eukocytosis
O rthostatic hypotension
T aste
 Beta blockers:
B1 selective vs. B1-B2 non-selective
A through N: B1 selective:
Acebutalol, Atenolol, Esmolol, Metoprolol.
O through Z: B1, B2 non-selective:
Pindolol, Propanalol, Timolol.

Beta 1 selective blockers

Beta 1 blockers:
Esmolol
Atenolol
Metropolol

"BEAM me up,
Scotty!"

Beta-blockers:
Nonselective Beta-blockers:
 “Tim Pinches His Nasal Problem"
(because he has a runny nose...):

Timolol
Pindolol
Hismolol
Naldolol
Propranolol

Beta-blockers: Side effects

"BBC Loses Viewers In Rochedale":
Bradycardia
Bronchoconstriction
Claudication
Lipids
Vivid dreams &
nightmares
Inotropic action
Reduced sensitivity
to hypoglycemia
 Ca++ Channel Blockers: Uses- CA++ MASH:
Cerebral vasospasm/ CHF
Angina
Migraines
Atrial flutter, fibrillation
Supraventricular tachycardia
Hypertension

Alternatively: "CHASM":
Cerebral vasospasm / CHF
Hypertension
Angina / Atrial flutter,
fibrillation
Supraventricular
tachyarrhythmia
Migraines
 Antiarrhythmic: Classification
I to IV MBA College
In order of class I to IV:
Membrane stabilizers (class I)
Beta blockers (class II)
Action potential widening agents
(class III)
Calcium channel blockers (class IV)
 Amiodarone: Action, Side Effects 6
P's:
P rolongs action potential duration
P hotosensitivity
P igmentation of skin
P eripheral neuropathy
P ulmonary alveolitis and fibrosis
P eripheral conversion of T4 to T3 is
inhibited -> hypothyroidism
 Chapter 4
Pulmonary
Pulmonary Infiltrations Inducing Drugs
"Go BAN Me!"
Gold
Bleomycin/ Busulfan/ BiCNU
Amiodarone/ Acyclovir/ Azathioprine
Nitrofurantoin
Melphalan/Methotrexate/Methysergide
 Antibiotics for TB
STRIPE:
ST R ISONIAZID PYRAZINAMIDE ETHAMBUTOL
R I
E F
P A
T M
O P
M I
Y C
C I
I N
N

Alternatively, RESPIration
Rifampicin
Ethambutol
Streptomycin
Pyrazinamide
Isoniazid

Asthma Drugs: Leukotriene Inhibitor Action

zAfirlukast: Antagonist of lipoxygenase

 zIlueton: Inhibitor of LT receptor

Zafirlukast, Montelukast, Cinalukast: Mechanism & Usage

"Zafir-luk-ast, Monte-luk-ast, Cina-luk-ast": Anti-Leukotrienes for Asthma.
Clinical pearl: Zafirlukast antagonizes leukotriene-4.
 Medicines for Asthma
A gonist of beta receptors and Antagonist of
leukotriene
S teroids
T heophylline – relaxes bronchial muscles
H istamine antagonist as prophylactic
M ucolytics – acetylcysteine (Fluimucil)
A ntibiotics

IprAtropium action: Atropine is buried in the middle, so it behaves like

Atropine.

Respiratory depression inducing drugs "STOP

breathing":
Non-Cardiac Causes of Pulmonary Edema: PONS

Pulmonary edema “MAD DOG”

Morphine
Aminophylline
Digitalis
Diuretics
Oxygen

Gases
Chapter 5
Antibiotics/Antivirals
 Sulfonamide: Major Side Effects….SSSS

Steven-Johnson syndrome
Skin rash
Solubility low (causes crystalluria)
Serum albumin displaced
(Causes newborn kernicterus and
potentiation of other serum albumin-
binders like warfarin)
 Quinolones [and Fluoroquinolones]:
mechanism
"Topple the Queen":

Quinolone interferes with Topoisomerase II.

Nitrofurantoin: Major Side Effects NitroFurAntoin:

Neuropathy (peripheral neuropathy)
Fibrosis (pulmonary fibrosis)
Anemia (hemolytic anemia)
 Antibiotics Contraindicated During Pregnancy MCAT:

Metronidazole
Chloramphenicol
Aminoglycoside
Tetracycline

Tetracycline: Teratogenicity
TEtracycline is a TEratogen that causes staining of TEeth in the newborn.
Vancomycin - "A Red Van Drove Into The Wall"

Antihistamines (prevents red man syndrome)

Red man syndrome
Vancomycin
DAla DAla (terminal end of pentapeptide)
Inhibitor
Thrombophlebitis
Wall (cell wall)
 Amphotericin Toxicities:
AMPHOTERICIN B
Anemia
Muscle spasms
Phlebitis
Headaches/Hypotension/Hypokalemia
Other reactions (leukopenia, Increased LFT’s)
Thrombocytopenia
Emesis/Encephalopathy
Respiratory stridor
Increased temperature (fever)
Chills
Immediate hypersensitivity (anaphylaxis)
Nephrotoxicity
Bronchospasm

Anti AnXiety = BuXpirone

BuPROPERion = PROPER habits (no smoking)
It’s used for smoking cessation.
 The Use Of Propranolol
For PERFORMANCE ANXIETY.
Take prOPRA-nolol if you wanna talk to OPRAh!!!

Propranolol is the beta-blocker with the strongest sedation effect. Just

thinking of talking to Oprah can cause migraines, essential tremors and
arrhythmias (the other 3 uses of the drug).
 Delirium-Causing Drugs
ACUTE CHANGE IN MS:
Antibiotics (biaxin, penicillin, ciprofloxacin)
Cardiac drugs (digoxin, lidocaine)
Urinary incontinence drugs (anticholinergics)
Theophylline
Ethanol

Corticosteroids
H2 blockers
Antiparkinsonian drugs
Narcotics (esp. mepridine)
Geriatric psychiatric drugs
ENT drugs

Insomnia drugs
NSAIDs (e.g. indomethacin, naproxen)

Muscle relaxants
Seizure medicines
 Tricyclic Antidepressants:
Meds Worth Knowing

"I have to hide, the CIA is after me":

Clomipramine Imipramine Amitriptyline
· The next 3 worth knowing,
“The DND is also after me”:
Desipramine Nortriptyline Doxepin

Serotonin Syndrome: Components Causes HARM:

Hyperthermia,
Autonomic Instability (delirium)
Rigidity
Myoclonus

SSRIs: Side Effects SSRI:

Serotonin syndrome
Stimulate CNS
Reproductive dysfunction in male
Insomnia
Depression: 5 Drugs Causing It: PROMS

PROPRANOLOL RESERPINE ORAL

CONTRACEPT
IVES
 Benzodiazapines
Benzodiazapines: Those not metabolized by the liver (safe to use in liver
failure)
LOT: Lorazepam Oxazepam Temazepam

Benzodiazepines: Actions
"Ben SCAMs Pam into seduction not by brain but, by muscle":

Sedation
anti-Convulsant
anti-Anxiety
Muscle relaxant
Not by brain: No antipsychotic activity

Benzodiazepines: Drugs Which Decrease Their Metabolism

"I'm Overly Calm":
Isoniazid
 Oral contraceptive pills
Cimetidine
These drugs increase the calming effect of BZDs by retarding metabolism.

Benzodiazepines: Antidote "Ben is off with the Flu":

Benzodiazepine effects off with Flumazenil.
 MAOIs: Indications MAOI'S:
Melancholic [classic name for atypical depression]
Anxiety
Obesity disorders [anorexia, bulimia]
Imagined illnesses [hypochondria]
Social phobias
* Listed in decreasing order of importance.
· Note MAOI is inside MelAnchOlIc
 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors:
Members "PIT of despair":
Phenelzine
Isocarboxazid
Tranylcypromine
A PIT of despair, since MAOIs treat depression
 Lithium: Side Effects LITH:
Leukocytosis
Insipidus [diabetes insipidus, tied to polyuria]
Tremor/ Teratogenesis
Hypothyroidism
 Chapter 6
Pain

Beneficial Effects Of Inhibition of Prostaglandin

Synthesis i.e. Acetaminophen And NSAIDS (5 A’s)

Analgesia
Antipyretic
Anti-inflammatory
Antithrombotic
Arteriosus

(NSAIDs for closure of patent ductus arteriosus)

 NSAID Contraindications
Nursing and pregnancy
Serious bleeding
Allergy/Asthma/Angioedema
Impaired renal function
Drug (anticoagulant)
 Names of Common NSAIDS: CAIN
Celebrex
Asprin
Indomethicin/Ibuprofen
Naproxen

Alternatively, NSAIDS
Naproxen
Salicylates
Advil
Ibuprofen
Diclofenac
Sulindac
 Narcotics: Side Effects
"SCRAM If You See A Drug Dealer":

Synergistic CNS depression with other

drugs
Constipation
Respiratory depression
Addiction
Miosis
 Morphine: Effects MORPHINES:
Miosis
Orthostatic hypotension
Respiratory depression
Pain suppression
Histamine release/ Hormonal
alterations
Increased ICP
Nausea
Euphoria
Sedation

Morphine Side-Effects: MORPHINE:

Miosis
Out of it (sedation)
Respiratory depression
Pneumonia (aspiration)
Hypotension
Infrequency (constipation, urinary
retention)
Nausea
Emesis
 Opioids: µ-Receptor Effects "MD CARES":

Miosis
Dependency
Constipation
Analgesics
Respiratory depression
Euphoria
Sedation
 Opioids: Effects BAD AMERICANS:
Bradycardia & hypotension
Anorexia
Diminished pupillary size

Analgesics
Miosis
Euphoria
Respiratory depression
Increased smooth muscle activity
(biliary tract constriction)
Constipation
Ameliorate cough reflex
Nausea and vomiting
Sedation
 Narcotic Antagonists
The Narcotic Antagonists are NAloxone and NAltrexone.
They treat narcotic overdose.
 Morphine: Effects At mu -Receptor PEAR:

Physical dependence
Euphoria
Analgesia
Respiratory depression
 Aspirin: Side Effects ASPIRIN:
Asthma
Salicyalism
Peptic ulcer disease/ Phosphorylation-
oxidation uncoupling/ PPH/ Platelet
disaggregation/ Premature closure of
PDA
Intestinal blood loss
Reye's syndrome
Idiosyncrasy
Noise (tinnitus)
 Chapter 7
Endocrine/Immunology
Side Effects Of Systemic Corticosteroids
(CORTICOSTEROIDS)
Cushing’s syndrome
Osteoporosis
Retardation of growth
Thin skin, easy bruising
Immunosuppression
Cataracts and glaucoma
Oedema
Suppression of HPA axis
Teratogenic
Emotional disturbance
Rise in BP
Obesity (truncal)
Increased hair growth
(hirsutism)
Diabetes mellitus
Striae

Steroid Side Effects CUSHINGOID:

Cataracts
Ulcers
Skin: striae, thinning, bruising
Hypertension/ Hirsutism/ Hyperglycemia
Infections
Necrosis: avascular necrosis of the femoral
head
Glycosuria
Osteoporosis, Obesity
Immunosuppression
Diabetes

Steroids (6 S’s)
Sugar (hyperglycemia)
Soggy bones (causes
osteoporosis)
Sick (decreased immunity)
Sad (depression)
Salt (water and salt retention)
Sex (decreased libido)

Steroids: Side Effects BECLOMETHASONE:

Buffalo hump
Easy bruising
Cataracts
Larger appetite
Obesity
Moon face
Euphoria
Thin arms & legs
Hypertension/ Hyperglycemia
Avascular necrosis of femoral
head
Skin thinning
Osteoporosis
Negative nitrogen balance
Emotional liability
 Drugs to Use in Rheumatoid Arthritis: MS. AHILA

M - Methotrexate
S - Sulfsalazine

A - Adalimumab
H-
Hydroxychloroquine
I - Infliximab
L - Leflunomide
A - Abatacept

Busulfan: Features ABCDEF:

Alkylating agent
Bone marrow suppression s/e
CML indication
Dark skin (hyperpigmentation)
s/e
Endrocrine insufficiency
(adrenal) s/e
Fibrosis (pulmonary) s/e

Antirheumatic Agents (Disease Modifying):

CHAMP:

Cyclophosphamide
Hydroxycloroquine and
choloroquinine
Auranofin and other gold
compounds
Methotrexate
Penicillamine

Auranofin, Aurothioglucose: Category And Indication

Aurum is Latin for "gold" (gold's chemical symbol is Au).
Generic Aur- drugs (Auranofin, Aurothioglucose) are gold compounds.
Gold's indication is rheumatoid arthritis,
AUR- Acts Upon Rheumatoid.
 Enzyme Inhibitors: “SICKFACES.COM

Sodium valproate
Isoniazid
Cimetidine
Fluoxetine
Alcohol
Erythromycin and
clarithromycin
Sulphonamides
Ciprofloxacin
Omeprazole
Metronidazole
 Lupus: Drugs Inducing It.
HIP:

Hydralazine
INH
Proca i
namide
 Chapter 8
GI/Liver
Zero Order Kinetics Drugs (most common ones)
"PEAZ (sounds like pees) out a constant amount":
Phenytoin
Ethanol
Aspirin
Zero order

Someone that pees out a constant amount describes zero order kinetics
(always the same amount out).
Hepatic Necrosis: Drugs Causing Focal To Massive Necrosis
"Very Angry Hepatocytes":
Valproic acid
Acetaminophen
Halothane
Principles of management in toxicology
RESS
Reduce absorption
Enhance
elimination
Specific antidote
Supportive
treatment
 8 A’s for Hepatotoxic Drugs
Anti-tuberculosis
Anticonvulsant
Sodium luminal
Gabapentin
Phenytoin
Tegretol
Anticancer
Aspirin
Alcohol
Antifamily (contraceptive
pills)
Acetaminophen
Afatoxins

Inhibitors of p450:
Inhibitors Stop Cute Kids from Eating Grapefruit.

INH
Sulfonamides
Cimetidine
Ketoconazole
Erythromycin
Grapefruit juice

IC(see) KEGS (going down)

INH
Cimetidine

Ketoconazole
Erythromycin
Grapefruit
Sulfonamides
 Chapter 9
GU/Reproductive
Diuretics:

Thiazides Indications: “CHIC”

Congestive Heart failure
Hypertension
Insipidus
Calcium calculi
 Osmotic Diuretics: Members GUM:

Glycerol
Urea
Mannitol

Teratogenic Drugs "W/ TERATOgenic":

Warfarin
Thalidomide
Epileptic drugs: phenytoin, valproate, carbamazepine
Retinoid
ACE inhibitor
Third element: lithium
OCP and other hormones (e.g. danazol)

Gynecomastia-Causing Drugs DISCO:

Digoxin Isoniazid Spironolactone Cimet Oestrogens
idine
Alternative,
Gynecomastia Causing Drugs - DISCO 2MTV

Digoxin
Isoniazid
Spironolactone
Cimetidine
Oestrogens

Methyldopa
Metronidazole
TriCyclic Antidepressants
Verapamil
Sex Hormone Drugs: Male "Feminine Males Need
Testosterone":
Fluoxymesterone
Methyltestosterone
Nandrolone
Testosterone

Teratogenic Drugs: Major Non-Antibiotics

TAP CAP:

Thalidomide Androgens Progestins

Corticosteroids Aspirin & indomethacin Phenytoin
 Don’t Use 'Safe CT' in Pregnancy

Sulfonamide
Aminoglycoside
Flouroquinolones
Erythromycin

Clarithromycin
Tetracycline

Drugs Causing Erectile Dysfunction

STOP Erection
SSRI
(fluoxetine)
Thioridazone
MethlydOpa
Propranalol

Uterine Relaxants “It’sNot My Time”

Indomethecin
Nifedipine
Magnesium
Terbutaune
 Chapter 10
Hematology
Drugs That Potentiate Warfarin (O DEVICES)
Omeprazole
Disulfiram
Erythromycin
Valproate
Isoniazid
Ciprofloxacin and
Cimetidine
Ethanol (acutely)
Sulphonamides
Drugs That Decrease The Effectiveness Of Warfarin (PC
BRAS)

Phenytoin
Carbamazepine

Barbiturates
Rifampicin
Alcohol (chronic
use)
Sulphonylureas
 Thrombolytic Agents USA:

Urokinase Streptokinase
Alteplase (tPA)
Enoxaparin (prototype low molecular weight heparin): action, monitoring
EnoXaprin only acts on factor Xa. Monitor Xa concentration, rather than
APTT.
 Warfarin: Action, Monitoring - We PT:
Warfarin works on the Extrinsic pathway and is monitored by PT.
 Warfarin: Metabolism SLOW:
• Has a slow onset of action.
• A quicK Vitamin K antagonist, though.

Small lipid-soluble molecule

Liver: site of action
Oral route of administration.
Warfarin

Lead poisoning: presentation ABCDEFG:

Anemia
Basophilic stripping
Colicky pain
Diarrhea
Encephalopathy
Foot drop
Gum (lead line)
 Chapter 11
Neuro
Side Effects Of Sodium Valproate (VALPROATE)
Vomiting
Alopecia
Liver toxicity
Pancreatitis/ Pancytopenia
Retention of fat (weight
gain)
Oedema (peripheral)
Anorexia
Tremor
Enzyme inhibitor
 Antimuscarinics: Members, Action
"Inhibits Parasympathetic And Sweat":

Ipratropium Pi At Scopolamine
renzepine rop
i
ne
Muscarinic receptors at all parasympathetic endings sweat glands in
sympathetic.
CARE Drugs To Treat Alzheimer’s
Cognex
Aricept
REminyl
Exelon
 Muscarinic effects SLUG BAM:

Salivation/ Secretions/ Sweating

Lacrimation
Urination
Gastrointestinal upset
Bradycardia/ Bronchoconstriction/ Bowel movement
Abdominal cramps/ Anorexia
Miosis

Cholinergic Crisis: SLUDGE

Salvation
Lacrimation
Urination
Defecation
Gastric upset
Emesis
 Epilepsy Types, Drugs Of Choice:
"Military General Attacked Weary Fighters Proclaiming 'Veni Vedi Veci'

After Crushing Enemies":

· Epilepsy types: Myoclonic, Grand mal, Atonic, West syndrome.
Focal, Petit mal (absence)
· Respective drugs: Valproate Valproate Valproate ACTH
Carbamazepine Ethosuximide

Migraine: Prophylaxis Drugs

"Very Volatile Pharmacotherapeutic Agents For Migraine Prophylaxis":
Verapamil
Valproic acid
Pizotifen
Amitriptyline
Flunarizine
Methysergide
Propranolol

Physostigmine vs. Neostigmine LMNOP:

Lipid soluble
Miotic
Natural
Orally absorbed
well
Physostigmine

Neostigmine, on the Contrary, Is:

Water soluble
Administered in
myasthenia gravis
Synthetic
Poor oral absorption

SIADH-Inducing Drugs ABCD:

Analgesics: opioids, NSAIDs
Barbiturates
Cyclophosphamide/ Chlorpromazine/
Carbamazepine
Diuretic (thiazide)

Phenobarbital: Side Effects

Children are annoying
(hyperkinesia, irritability, insomnia,
aggression).
Adults are dozy
(sedation, dizziness, drowsiness)

Phenytoin: adverse effects PHENYTOIN:

P-450 interactions
Hirsutism
Enlarged gums
Nystagmus
Yellow-browning of skin
Teratogenicity
Osteomalacia
Interference with B12 metabolism (hence
anemia)
Neuropathies: vertigo, ataxia, and headache
 Anticholinergic Side Effects
"Know the ABCD'S of anticholinergic side effects":
Anorexia
Blurry vision
Constipation/
Confusion
Dry Mouth
Sedation/ Stasis of
urine
Myasthenia Gravis: Edrophonium Vs. Pyridostigmine
eDrophonium is for Diagnosis.
pyRIDostigmine is to get RID of symptoms.
Cholinergics (e.g. Organophosphates): Effects
If you know these, you will be "LESS DUMB":

Lacrimation
Excitation of nicotinic synapses
Salivation
Sweating

Diarrhea
Urination
Micturition
Bronchoconstriction

Methyldopa:
Side Effects METHYLDOPA:
Mentally challenged
Electrolyte imbalance
Tolerance
Headache/ Hepatotoxicity
psYchological upset
Lactation in women
Dry mouth
Oedema
 Parkinsonism
Anemia (hemolytic)

Botulism Toxin: Action, Related Bungarotoxin

Action: "Botulism Bottles up the Ach so it can't be the released":
Related bungarotoxin: "Botulism is related to Beta Bungarotoxin (beta-, not
alpha-bungarotoxin--alpha has different mechanism).
 References
Bentz, P.M. & Ellis, J. R. (2007). Modules For Basic Nursing Skills (7th ed.)
Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins. p 823
Jarvis. C. (2004). Math For Nurses: Pocket Guide To Dosage Calculation
And Drug Preparation (18th ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ. Pearson
Education. Inc. pp.573-574
Duell, D. J., Martin, B.C., & Smith, S. F. (2004). Clinical Nursing Skills:
Basic To Advanced Skills (16th ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ. Pearson
Education. Inc. pp 573-574
Perry, A.G., & Potter, P.A. (2006). Clinical Nursing Skills And Techniques
(6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby. pp. 618-620
http://www.mudphudder.com/medical-mnemonics/mnemonics-
pharmacology-toxicology/
http://www.nursefuel.com/8-important-nursing-concepts-every-nursing-
student-must-master/?
utm_content=buffer618b5&utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest.com&utm_campa
http://learningmedications.weebly.com/mnemonics.html
http://www.rxpgonline.com/medicalmnemonic911720.html
www.doctorshangout.com/page/pharmacology-mnemonics
www.medical-institution.com
www.medscape.com/viewarticle/825053#vp_2
www.prep4usmle.com
www.quizlet.com
www.scribd.com
www.wikepedia.com
Other Books by Nachole Johnson
Medical Mnemonics for the Family Nurse Practitioner
NP School and Beyond: Tips for the Student Nurse Practitioner
The Financially Savvy Nurse Practitioner: Your Guide to Building Wealth
50+ Business Ideas For The Entrepreneurial Nurse
You're a Nurse and Want to Start Your Own Business? The Complete Guide
Adult-Gero and Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Review: Labs For
Primary Care
Adult-Gero and Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Review: Mental
Health
Adult-Gero and Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Review: Cardiac
Adult-Gero and Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Review: Health
Promotion
Adult-Gero and Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Review: Pulmonary
Adult-Gero and Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Review:
Genitourinary and STDs
Adult-Gero and Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Review: Neuro
Adult-Gero Primary Care and Family Nurse Practitioner Certification
Review: Head, Ears, Eyes, Nose, and Throat
Nachole’s Amazon Author Page:
amazon.com/author/nacholejohnson
Nachole’s Blog: renursing.com