Iris Dawn Tabangcora, RN

Adrenergic agonists are autonomic nervous system drugs that stimulate the adrenergic receptors of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), either directly (by reacting with receptor sites) or indirectly (by increasing norepinephrine levels). An adrenergic agonist is also called a sympathomimetic because it stimulates the effects of SNS.

Adrenergic antagonists are also referred to as sympatholytics because they lyse, or block, the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. They react with specific adrenergic receptor sites without activating them, thus preventing the typical manifestations of SNS activation.

Anticholinergics are drugs that oppose the effects of acetylcholine. In essence, they also lyse and block the effects of parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) so they are also called as parasympatholytics.

Cholinergic agonists act at the same site as the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) and increase the activity of the ACh receptor sites throughout the body. Cholinergic agonists act at the same site as the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) and increase the activity of the ACh receptor sites throughout the body.Cholinergic agonists act at the same site as the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) and increase the activity of the ACh receptor sites throughout the body. They are also called as parasympathomimetics.

Immunostimulants or immune stimulants are drugs that energize the immune system when it is exhausted from fighting prolonged invasion or when the immune system needs help fighting a specific pathogen or cancer cell. It is one of the classifications of drug class called immunomodulators.

mmunosuppressants or immune suppressants are usually used in conjunction with corticosteroids to block inflammatory reaction and decrease initial damage to cells in cases of organ transplantation and autoimmune diseases.

Antiarthritic agents are drugs that are also used to block the inflammatory process. Antiarthritic drugs include gold compounds.

Salicylates are salicylic acid compounds with anti-inflammatory, antipyretic (fever-blocking), and analgesic (pain-blocking) properties. These drugs are widely available as nonprescription drugs and are relatively nontoxic when used as directed.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) provide strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects without the adverse effects associated with corticosteroids. Learn about NSAIDs in this study guide.

Antivirals are agents used to treat the diseases caused by viruses such as warts and common colds.