Glossary

Medical words, explained in one line.

• ACE InhibitorBlocks the angiotensin-converting enzyme to lower blood pressure.
• AnalgesicA painkiller.
• AntibioticKills or stops bacteria.
• AnticoagulantA blood thinner.
• AntiemeticStops nausea and vomiting.
• AntifungalKills fungi.
• AntihistamineBlocks allergy chemicals called histamines.
• AntipyreticA medicine that lowers fever.
• AntiviralSlows down viruses.
• ATC CodeAn international code that classifies medicines.
• BiguanideClass of diabetes medicine including metformin.
• BioavailabilityHow much medicine reaches your bloodstream.
• Brand nameThe company's marketing name for a medicine.
• BronchodilatorOpens up airways.
• ContraindicationA reason not to use a medicine.
• Generic nameThe chemical name of a medicine.
• Half-lifeTime for half of the medicine to leave the body.
• NSAIDNon-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug — reduces pain, fever, and swelling.
• OTCOver-the-counter — no prescription needed.
• PPIProton Pump Inhibitor — reduces stomach acid.
• PrescriptionMedicine that requires a doctor's authorization.
• SedativeMakes you calm or sleepy.
• SSRISelective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor — a type of antidepressant.
• StatinCholesterol-lowering medicine.