Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceuticals, commonly known as medicines, are chemicals substances designed to prevent, diagnose, cure, and treat illnesses. There is a wide range of pharmaceutical drugs for different diseases and are either available over the counter or with a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional. When taken according to the doctor’s prescription, medicines are very effective in preventing and curing diseases.
Drugs Vs. Medicines
The two can be distinguished based and chemical composition and the purpose they serve. Medicines are used to prevent or cure a disease. This means that their impact on our bodies is mostly positive. Besides major chemical components, medicines also contain additional substances known as excipients that enhance the effectiveness of the medicine.
Drugs, on the other hand, can be used to treat and cure symptoms but have both positive and negative effects. Heroin, for instance, can be used to alleviate and cure symptoms but also causes specific biological effects and, therefore, not classified as a medicine but a drug. However, both drugs and medicines are poisonous when taken in large quantities.
Classification of Drugs
Pharmaceuticals are generally classified into four broad categories. Based on pharmacological effects, drug action, chemical structure, and molecular targets.
i. Based on pharmacological effects
The pharmacological effects of a drug simply mean how the drug works and how they interact with cells in the body to produce the desired results. Different drugs have different pharmacological effects on the body. For example, antibiotics work by curing infections, while antiseptics kill organisms and microorganisms.
ii. Based on drug action
This classification is based on which biochemical process in the body the drug targets. There are many biochemical processes in the body, such as the production of enzymes. Different drugs target different biochemical processes to produce the desired effects. A perfect example is antihistamines, which are used to treat allergies by stopping the production of histamines.
iii. Based on chemical structure
Drugs with a similar molecular structure have the same pharmacological effects and the same drug action. However, a slight variation in the structure determines its potential. But as long as the skeletal structure remains the same, the drugs are classified together.
iv. Based on Molecular Targets
Drugs interact with the macromolecules in the body to produce a biological response. These macromolecules include lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, among others. Drugs with similar chemical structures will have the same target.
The Purpose of Drug Classification
Classifying ensures the safe use of drugs to achieve maximum benefits. Classification also allows doctors and other qualified professionals to understand what to expect and monitor when prescribing medications. It also helps to identify drug interactions, risks, side effects, and potential for resistance to ensure the most appropriate treatment option.

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