PTCB Top 200 Drugs: The Current List, Flashcards, and Quiz
PTCB doesn't publish an official top 200 list—its exam outline names what to know about medications, not which ones. This list uses the most common meaning of the phrase: the 200 most-prescribed outpatient drugs in the U.S. (2024 prescription data, published August 2026), with the brand, class, use, and federal schedule for each.
Castleport Test Prep Editorial Team · Last verified September 24, 2026 (scope listed under Sources)
Showing 200 rows in all drugs.
The top 200 drug list
Study reference, not treatment advice. Rank = U.S. outpatient prescriptions in 2024, from the ClinCalc DrugStats Top 200 of 2024.
| Rank | Generic name | Brand name(s) | Class | Common use | Federal status | Safety notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Atorvastatin | Lipitor | Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) | High cholesterol | Rx | |
| 2 | Levothyroxine | Synthroid, Levoxyl, Unithroid | Thyroid hormone | Hypothyroidism | Rx | |
| 3 | Metformin | Glucophage, Glumetza | Biguanide | Type 2 diabetes | Rx | Look-alike: metFORMIN vs metroNIDAZOLE |
| 4 | Amlodipine | Norvasc | Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine) | High blood pressure, angina | Rx | Look-alike: amLODIPine vs aMILoride |
| 5 | Lisinopril | Zestril, Qbrelis (oral solution) | ACE inhibitor | High blood pressure, heart failure | Rx | |
| 6 | Albuterol | ProAir HFA, Ventolin HFA, Proventil HFA | Short-acting beta-2 agonist (rescue inhaler) | Asthma and COPD symptoms | Rx | |
| 7 | Losartan | Cozaar | ARB (angiotensin II receptor blocker) | High blood pressure | Rx | |
| 8 | Metoprolol | Lopressor (tartrate), Toprol-XL (succinate ER) | Beta-blocker (beta-1 selective) | High blood pressure, angina, heart failure (succinate ER) | Rx | |
| 9 | Rosuvastatin | Crestor | Statin | High cholesterol | Rx | |
| 10 | Omeprazole | Prilosec, Prilosec OTC | Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) | GERD, ulcers | Rx and OTC | Look-alike: PriLOSEC vs PROzac |
| 11 | Gabapentin | Neurontin, Gralise | Anticonvulsant (gabapentinoid) | Seizures, nerve pain after shingles | Rx (not federally controlled) | |
| 12 | Sertraline | Zoloft | SSRI antidepressant | Depression, anxiety disorders | Rx | |
| 13 | Escitalopram | Lexapro | SSRI antidepressant | Depression, generalized anxiety | Rx | |
| 14 | Semaglutide | Ozempic (injection, tablets), Wegovy (injection, tablets), Rybelsus (tablets) | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Type 2 diabetes; weight management (product-specific) | Rx | Fridge |
| 15 | Dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (mixed salts) | Adderall, Adderall XR | CNS stimulant | ADHD, narcolepsy | C-II | |
| 16 | Pantoprazole | Protonix | Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) | GERD, erosive esophagitis | Rx | |
| 17 | Bupropion | Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Zyban | Antidepressant (NDRI) | Depression; smoking cessation (Zyban) | Rx | Look-alike: buPROPion vs busPIRone |
| 18 | Hydrochlorothiazide | Microzide | Thiazide diuretic | High blood pressure, edema | Rx | Look-alike: hydroCHLOROthiazide vs hydrALAZINE, hydrOXYzine |
| 19 | Fluoxetine | Prozac | SSRI antidepressant | Depression, OCD, panic disorder, bulimia | Rx | Look-alike: FLUoxetine vs DULoxetine, PARoxetine; PROzac vs PriLOSEC |
| 20 | Trazodone | Desyrel | Antidepressant (serotonin modulator) | Depression | Rx | Look-alike: traZODone vs traMADol |
| 21 | Montelukast | Singulair | Leukotriene receptor antagonist | Asthma, allergic rhinitis | Rx | |
| 22 | Amoxicillin | Amoxil | Penicillin antibiotic | Bacterial infections | Rx | |
| 23 | Fluticasone | Flonase (nasal), Arnuity Ellipta (inhaled) | Corticosteroid (nasal or inhaled) | Allergic rhinitis; asthma (inhaled) | Rx and OTC (nasal) | |
| 24 | Tamsulosin | Flomax | Alpha-1 blocker | Enlarged prostate (BPH) | Rx | |
| 25 | Apixaban | Eliquis | Factor Xa inhibitor (anticoagulant) | Stroke prevention in AFib; DVT/PE | Rx | High-alert |
| 26 | Simvastatin | Zocor | Statin | High cholesterol | Rx | |
| 27 | Insulin glargine | Lantus, Basaglar, Semglee, Toujeo | Long-acting insulin | Diabetes | Rx | High-alert; Fridge |
| 28 | Empagliflozin | Jardiance | SGLT2 inhibitor | Type 2 diabetes, heart failure, CKD | Rx | |
| 29 | Furosemide | Lasix | Loop diuretic | Edema, high blood pressure | Rx | |
| 30 | Meloxicam | Mobic | NSAID | Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis | Rx | |
| 31 | Hydrocodone/acetaminophen | Norco, Lortab | Opioid analgesic combination | Pain | C-II | High-alert; Look-alike: HYDROcodone vs oxyCODONE |
| 32 | Tirzepatide | Mounjaro, Zepbound | GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist | Type 2 diabetes; weight management (Zepbound) | Rx | Fridge |
| 33 | Methylphenidate | Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana | CNS stimulant | ADHD | C-II | |
| 34 | Duloxetine | Cymbalta | SNRI antidepressant | Depression, anxiety, nerve pain, fibromyalgia | Rx | Look-alike: DULoxetine vs FLUoxetine, PARoxetine |
| 35 | Prednisone | Rayos | Corticosteroid (oral) | Inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions | Rx | Look-alike: predniSONE vs prednisoLONE |
| 36 | Carvedilol | Coreg | Beta-blocker (nonselective, also blocks alpha-1) | Heart failure, high blood pressure | Rx | |
| 37 | Famotidine | Pepcid | H2 blocker | GERD, ulcers, heartburn | Rx and OTC | |
| 38 | Ibuprofen | Motrin, Advil | NSAID | Pain, fever, inflammation | Rx and OTC | |
| 39 | Buspirone | BuSpar | Anxiolytic (not a benzodiazepine) | Generalized anxiety | Rx | Look-alike: busPIRone vs buPROPion |
| 40 | Venlafaxine | Effexor XR | SNRI antidepressant | Depression, anxiety, panic disorder | Rx | |
| 41 | Tramadol | Ultram | Opioid analgesic | Pain | C-IV | High-alert; Look-alike: traMADol vs traZODone |
| 42 | Potassium chloride | Klor-Con, K-Tab | Electrolyte supplement | Low potassium | Rx | |
| 43 | Hydroxyzine | Vistaril (pamoate), Atarax (HCl) | First-generation antihistamine | Anxiety, itching | Rx | Look-alike: hydrOXYzine vs hydrALAZINE, hydroCHLOROthiazide |
| 44 | Allopurinol | Zyloprim | Xanthine oxidase inhibitor | Gout, high uric acid | Rx | |
| 45 | Clopidogrel | Plavix | P2Y12 antiplatelet | Prevent heart attack and stroke; after stents | Rx | |
| 46 | Ergocalciferol | Drisdol | Vitamin D2 | Vitamin D deficiency | Rx and OTC | |
| 47 | Cetirizine | Zyrtec | Second-generation antihistamine | Allergies | OTC | Look-alike: ZyrTEC vs ZyPREXA |
| 48 | Ondansetron | Zofran | 5-HT3 antagonist (antiemetic) | Nausea and vomiting | Rx | |
| 49 | Cyclobenzaprine | Flexeril, Amrix | Skeletal muscle relaxant | Muscle spasm | Rx | |
| 50 | Spironolactone | Aldactone | Potassium-sparing diuretic (aldosterone antagonist) | Heart failure, high blood pressure, edema | Rx | |
| 51 | Oxycodone | OxyContin, Roxicodone | Opioid analgesic | Pain | C-II | High-alert; Look-alike: oxyCODONE vs HYDROcodone, oxyBUTYnin |
| 52 | Estradiol | Estrace, Vivelle-Dot, Climara, Vagifem | Estrogen | Menopause symptoms | Rx | |
| 53 | Aspirin | Bayer, Ecotrin | Salicylate (NSAID; antiplatelet at low dose) | Pain, fever; clot prevention | OTC | |
| 54 | Glipizide | Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL | Sulfonylurea | Type 2 diabetes | Rx | High-alert; Look-alike: glipiZIDE vs glyBURIDE |
| 55 | Zolpidem | Ambien | Sedative-hypnotic ("Z-drug") | Insomnia | C-IV | |
| 56 | Lamotrigine | Lamictal | Anticonvulsant | Epilepsy, bipolar maintenance | Rx | High-alert; Look-alike: lamoTRIgine vs lamiVUDine; LaMICtal vs LamISIL |
| 57 | Alprazolam | Xanax | Benzodiazepine | Anxiety, panic disorder | C-IV | Look-alike: ALPRAZolam vs clonazePAM, LORazepam |
| 58 | Citalopram | Celexa | SSRI antidepressant | Depression | Rx | Look-alike: CeleXA vs CeleBREX |
| 59 | Pregabalin | Lyrica | Anticonvulsant (gabapentinoid) | Nerve pain, fibromyalgia, seizures | C-V | |
| 60 | Cholecalciferol | (vitamin D3; many store brands) | Vitamin D3 | Vitamin D supplementation | OTC | |
| 61 | Clonazepam | Klonopin | Benzodiazepine | Seizures, panic disorder | C-IV | Look-alike: clonazePAM vs ALPRAZolam, LORazepam, cloNIDine |
| 62 | Azithromycin | Zithromax, Z-Pak | Macrolide antibiotic | Bacterial infections | Rx | |
| 63 | Pravastatin | Pravachol | Statin | High cholesterol | Rx | |
| 64 | Valsartan | Diovan | ARB | High blood pressure, heart failure | Rx | |
| 65 | Ezetimibe | Zetia | Cholesterol absorption inhibitor | High cholesterol | Rx | |
| 66 | Diclofenac | Voltaren (gel), Cambia | NSAID | Arthritis pain | Rx and OTC (1% gel) | |
| 67 | Insulin lispro | Humalog, Admelog, Lyumjev | Rapid-acting insulin | Diabetes | Rx | High-alert; Look-alike: HumaLOG vs HumuLIN; Fridge |
| 68 | Ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone | Loestrin, Junel, Microgestin | Combined hormonal contraceptive | Contraception | Rx | |
| 69 | Propranolol | Inderal LA | Beta-blocker (nonselective) | High blood pressure, migraine prevention, tremor | Rx | |
| 70 | Latanoprost | Xalatan | Prostaglandin analog (eye drop) | Glaucoma, high eye pressure | Rx | Fridge |
| 71 | Atenolol | Tenormin | Beta-blocker (beta-1 selective) | High blood pressure, angina | Rx | |
| 72 | Lisdexamfetamine | Vyvanse | CNS stimulant (prodrug) | ADHD, binge-eating disorder | C-II | |
| 73 | Doxycycline | Vibramycin, Doryx | Tetracycline antibiotic | Bacterial infections, acne | Rx | |
| 74 | Amoxicillin/clavulanate | Augmentin | Penicillin + beta-lactamase inhibitor | Bacterial infections | Rx | Fridge |
| 75 | Dulaglutide | Trulicity | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Type 2 diabetes | Rx | Fridge |
| 76 | Lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide | Zestoretic | ACE inhibitor + thiazide diuretic | High blood pressure | Rx | |
| 77 | Lorazepam | Ativan | Benzodiazepine | Anxiety | C-IV | Look-alike: LORazepam vs ALPRAZolam, clonazePAM |
| 78 | Fluticasone/salmeterol | Advair Diskus, Advair HFA, Wixela Inhub | Inhaled corticosteroid + LABA | Asthma, COPD maintenance | Rx | |
| 79 | Insulin aspart | NovoLog, Fiasp | Rapid-acting insulin | Diabetes | Rx | High-alert; Look-alike: NovoLOG vs NovoLIN; Fridge |
| 80 | Celecoxib | Celebrex | COX-2 selective NSAID | Arthritis pain | Rx | Look-alike: CeleBREX vs CeleXA |
| 81 | Finasteride | Proscar (5 mg), Propecia (1 mg) | 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor | BPH; male-pattern hair loss | Rx | |
| 82 | Quetiapine | Seroquel | Atypical antipsychotic | Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder | Rx | Look-alike: QUEtiapine vs OLANZapine |
| 83 | Clonidine | Catapres, Kapvay | Central alpha-2 agonist | High blood pressure; ADHD (Kapvay) | Rx | Look-alike: cloNIDine vs clonazePAM |
| 84 | Aripiprazole | Abilify | Atypical antipsychotic | Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, add-on for depression | Rx | Look-alike: ARIPiprazole vs RABEprazole |
| 85 | Cephalexin | Keflex | First-generation cephalosporin | Bacterial infections | Rx | |
| 86 | Alendronate | Fosamax | Bisphosphonate | Osteoporosis | Rx | |
| 87 | Topiramate | Topamax | Anticonvulsant | Epilepsy, migraine prevention | Rx | |
| 88 | Tizanidine | Zanaflex | Central alpha-2 agonist (muscle relaxant) | Spasticity | Rx | Look-alike: tiZANidine vs tiaGABine |
| 89 | Dapagliflozin | Farxiga | SGLT2 inhibitor | Type 2 diabetes, heart failure, CKD | Rx | |
| 90 | Oxycodone/acetaminophen | Percocet | Opioid analgesic combination | Pain | C-II | High-alert |
| 91 | Losartan/hydrochlorothiazide | Hyzaar | ARB + thiazide diuretic | High blood pressure | Rx | |
| 92 | Olmesartan | Benicar | ARB | High blood pressure | Rx | |
| 93 | Testosterone | AndroGel, Testim, Depo-Testosterone | Androgen (anabolic steroid) | Low testosterone | C-III | |
| 94 | Amitriptyline | Elavil | Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) | Depression | Rx | |
| 95 | Folic acid | (generic) | B vitamin (folate) | Folate deficiency | Rx and OTC | |
| 96 | Rivaroxaban | Xarelto | Factor Xa inhibitor (anticoagulant) | Stroke prevention in AFib; DVT/PE | Rx | High-alert |
| 97 | Fenofibrate | Tricor | Fibrate | High triglycerides | Rx | |
| 98 | Triamcinolone | Kenalog, Nasacort | Corticosteroid | Skin inflammation, allergic rhinitis, joint injection | Rx and OTC (nasal) | |
| 99 | Paroxetine | Paxil, Paxil CR | SSRI antidepressant | Depression, anxiety disorders | Rx | Look-alike: PARoxetine vs DULoxetine, FLUoxetine |
| 100 | Ferrous sulfate | Feosol, Slow Fe | Iron supplement | Iron-deficiency anemia | OTC | |
| 101 | Loratadine | Claritin | Second-generation antihistamine | Allergies | OTC | |
| 102 | Warfarin | Jantoven, Coumadin | Vitamin K antagonist (anticoagulant) | Clot prevention | Rx | High-alert |
| 103 | Valacyclovir | Valtrex | Antiviral | Herpes, shingles | Rx | Look-alike: valACYclovir vs valGANciclovir |
| 104 | Budesonide/formoterol | Symbicort, Breyna | Inhaled corticosteroid + LABA | Asthma, COPD | Rx | |
| 105 | Ethinyl estradiol/norgestimate | Sprintec, Tri-Sprintec, Ortho Tri-Cyclen | Combined oral contraceptive | Contraception | Rx | |
| 106 | Fluticasone/umeclidinium/vilanterol | Trelegy Ellipta | Inhaled corticosteroid + LAMA + LABA | COPD, asthma maintenance | Rx | |
| 107 | Methocarbamol | Robaxin | Skeletal muscle relaxant | Muscle spasm | Rx | |
| 108 | Acetaminophen | Tylenol | Analgesic and fever reducer | Pain, fever | OTC and Rx | |
| 109 | Diltiazem | Cardizem, Cardizem CD, Tiazac | Calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine) | High blood pressure, angina, AFib rate control | Rx | Look-alike: dilTIAZem vs diazePAM |
| 110 | Thyroid (desiccated) | Armour Thyroid, NP Thyroid | Thyroid hormone | Hypothyroidism | Rx | |
| 111 | Baclofen | Lioresal, Ozobax | Muscle relaxant (GABA-B agonist) | Spasticity | Rx | |
| 112 | Naproxen | Naprosyn, Anaprox DS, Aleve | NSAID | Pain, arthritis | Rx and OTC | |
| 113 | Sumatriptan | Imitrex | Triptan (5-HT1B/1D agonist) | Migraine attacks | Rx | Look-alike: SUMAtriptan vs SITagliptin |
| 114 | Prednisolone | Orapred ODT, Millipred, Pred Forte (eye) | Corticosteroid | Inflammation, asthma flares (liquid), eye inflammation | Rx | Look-alike: prednisoLONE vs predniSONE |
| 115 | Esomeprazole | Nexium, Nexium 24HR | Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) | GERD | Rx and OTC | Look-alike: NexIUM vs NexAVAR |
| 116 | Mirtazapine | Remeron | Antidepressant (tetracyclic) | Depression | Rx | |
| 117 | Levetiracetam | Keppra | Anticonvulsant | Epilepsy | Rx | Look-alike: levETIRAcetam vs levoFLOXacin |
| 118 | Norethindrone | Camila, Errin, Heather; Aygestin (5 mg) | Progestin | Progestin-only contraception; abnormal bleeding (5 mg) | Rx | |
| 119 | Tadalafil | Cialis, Adcirca | PDE-5 inhibitor | ED, BPH; pulmonary hypertension (Adcirca) | Rx | |
| 120 | Nifedipine | Procardia XL, Adalat CC | Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine) | High blood pressure, angina | Rx | Look-alike: NIFEdipine vs niCARdipine |
| 121 | Progesterone | Prometrium | Progestin (progesterone) | Endometrial protection with estrogen; missed periods | Rx | |
| 122 | Insulin degludec | Tresiba | Ultra-long-acting insulin | Diabetes | Rx | High-alert; Fridge |
| 123 | Cyanocobalamin | Nascobal (nasal); injection | Vitamin B12 | B12 deficiency | Rx and OTC | |
| 124 | Hydralazine | Apresoline | Direct vasodilator | High blood pressure, heart failure | Rx | Look-alike: hydrALAZINE vs hydroCHLOROthiazide, hydrOXYzine |
| 125 | Adalimumab | Humira; biosimilars such as Hadlima and Hyrimoz | TNF blocker (biologic) | Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn's, ulcerative colitis | Rx | Fridge |
| 126 | Azelastine | Astepro, Astelin | Antihistamine (nasal spray) | Allergic rhinitis | Rx and OTC | |
| 127 | Sitagliptin | Januvia | DPP-4 inhibitor | Type 2 diabetes | Rx | Look-alike: SITagliptin vs SUMAtriptan |
| 128 | Glimepiride | Amaryl | Sulfonylurea | Type 2 diabetes | Rx | High-alert |
| 129 | Chlorthalidone | Thalitone | Thiazide-like diuretic | High blood pressure, edema | Rx | |
| 130 | Oxybutynin | Ditropan XL, Oxytrol | Antimuscarinic | Overactive bladder | Rx and OTC (patch) | Look-alike: oxyBUTYnin vs oxyCODONE |
| 131 | Pioglitazone | Actos | Thiazolidinedione (TZD) | Type 2 diabetes | Rx | |
| 132 | Ketoconazole | Nizoral | Azole antifungal (mostly topical and shampoo) | Fungal skin infections, dandruff | Rx and OTC | |
| 133 | Irbesartan | Avapro | ARB | High blood pressure, diabetic kidney disease | Rx | |
| 134 | Hydroxychloroquine | Plaquenil | Antimalarial / DMARD | Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, malaria | Rx | |
| 135 | Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim | Bactrim, Bactrim DS | Sulfonamide antibiotic combination | UTIs and other infections | Rx | |
| 136 | Benzonatate | Tessalon Perles | Antitussive | Cough | Rx | |
| 137 | Nitrofurantoin | Macrobid, Macrodantin | Urinary antibacterial | Bladder infections (uncomplicated cystitis) | Rx | |
| 138 | Isosorbide (mononitrate/dinitrate) | Imdur, Isordil | Nitrate | Angina prevention | Rx | |
| 139 | Methylprednisolone | Medrol (Dosepak), Solu-Medrol | Corticosteroid | Inflammation | Rx | Look-alike: methylPREDNISolone vs medroxyPROGESTERone |
| 140 | Triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide | Dyazide, Maxzide | Potassium-sparing + thiazide diuretic | High blood pressure, edema | Rx | |
| 141 | Levocetirizine | Xyzal | Second-generation antihistamine | Allergies | OTC and Rx | |
| 142 | Clindamycin | Cleocin, Cleocin T | Lincosamide antibiotic | Infections; acne (topical) | Rx | |
| 143 | Atomoxetine | Strattera | Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (non-stimulant) | ADHD | Rx | |
| 144 | Dexmethylphenidate | Focalin, Focalin XR | CNS stimulant | ADHD | C-II | |
| 145 | Methotrexate | Trexall, Otrexup, Xatmep | Antimetabolite / DMARD | Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis; some cancers | Rx | High-alert |
| 146 | Donepezil | Aricept | Cholinesterase inhibitor | Alzheimer's dementia | Rx | |
| 147 | Desvenlafaxine | Pristiq | SNRI antidepressant | Depression | Rx | |
| 148 | Ropinirole | Requip | Dopamine agonist | Parkinson's disease, restless legs | Rx | Look-alike: rOPINIRole vs risperiDONE |
| 149 | Clobetasol | Temovate, Clobex | Super-high-potency topical corticosteroid | Psoriasis, eczema | Rx | |
| 150 | Fluticasone/vilanterol | Breo Ellipta | Inhaled corticosteroid + LABA | Asthma, COPD | Rx | |
| 151 | Albuterol/ipratropium | Combivent Respimat, DuoNeb | Short-acting beta agonist + anticholinergic | COPD | Rx | |
| 152 | Phentermine | Adipex-P, Lomaira | Sympathomimetic appetite suppressant | Short-term weight loss | C-IV | |
| 153 | Ofloxacin | Ocuflox (eye); otic solution | Fluoroquinolone | Eye and ear infections | Rx | |
| 154 | Mupirocin | Bactroban | Topical antibiotic | Impetigo and other skin infections | Rx | |
| 155 | Verapamil | Calan SR, Verelan | Calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine) | High blood pressure, angina, arrhythmias | Rx | |
| 156 | Olanzapine | Zyprexa | Atypical antipsychotic | Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder | Rx | Look-alike: OLANZapine vs QUEtiapine; ZyPREXA vs ZyrTEC |
| 157 | Metronidazole | Flagyl, MetroGel | Nitroimidazole antibiotic/antiprotozoal | Anaerobic infections, BV, trichomoniasis | Rx | Look-alike: metroNIDAZOLE vs metFORMIN |
| 158 | Prazosin | Minipress | Alpha-1 blocker | High blood pressure | Rx | |
| 159 | Ciprofloxacin | Cipro | Fluoroquinolone antibiotic | Bacterial infections | Rx | |
| 160 | Sildenafil | Viagra, Revatio | PDE-5 inhibitor | ED; pulmonary arterial hypertension (Revatio) | Rx | |
| 161 | Ethinyl estradiol/levonorgestrel | Levora, Aviane, Seasonique | Combined oral contraceptive | Contraception | Rx | |
| 162 | Evolocumab | Repatha | PCSK9 inhibitor (monoclonal antibody) | High LDL cholesterol | Rx | Fridge |
| 163 | Mesalamine | Lialda, Apriso, Pentasa, Canasa | Aminosalicylate | Ulcerative colitis | Rx | |
| 164 | Memantine | Namenda | NMDA receptor antagonist | Alzheimer's dementia | Rx | |
| 165 | Ethinyl estradiol/etonogestrel | NuvaRing, EluRyng | Contraceptive vaginal ring | Contraception | Rx | Fridge |
| 166 | Diazepam | Valium | Benzodiazepine | Anxiety, muscle spasm, seizures, alcohol withdrawal | C-IV | Look-alike: diazePAM vs dilTIAZem |
| 167 | Lithium | Lithobid | Mood stabilizer | Bipolar disorder | Rx | |
| 168 | Nortriptyline | Pamelor | Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) | Depression | Rx | |
| 169 | Timolol | Timoptic | Beta-blocker (eye drop) | Glaucoma | Rx | |
| 170 | Cefdinir | Omnicef | Third-generation cephalosporin | Bacterial infections | Rx | |
| 171 | Magnesium salts | Mag-Ox, Slow-Mag | Mineral supplement | Low magnesium | OTC and Rx | |
| 172 | Meclizine | Antivert, Bonine | Antihistamine (antiemetic) | Vertigo, motion sickness | Rx and OTC | |
| 173 | Cyclosporine | Restasis, Cequa (eye); Neoral, Sandimmune (oral) | Calcineurin inhibitor (immunosuppressant) | Dry eye (drops); transplant rejection prevention (oral) | Rx | High-alert; Look-alike: cycloSPORINE vs cycloSERINE; SandIMMUNE vs SandoSTATIN |
| 174 | Fluconazole | Diflucan | Azole antifungal | Yeast infections | Rx | |
| 175 | Rimegepant | Nurtec ODT | CGRP receptor antagonist ("gepant") | Migraine treatment and prevention | Rx | |
| 176 | Tretinoin | Retin-A | Topical retinoid | Acne | Rx | Look-alike: tretinoin vs ISOtretinoin |
| 177 | Lovastatin | Mevacor, Altoprev | Statin | High cholesterol | Rx | |
| 178 | Drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol | Yaz, Yasmin | Combined oral contraceptive | Contraception | Rx | |
| 179 | Tiotropium | Spiriva HandiHaler, Spiriva Respimat | Long-acting anticholinergic (LAMA) | COPD, asthma maintenance | Rx | |
| 180 | Docusate | Colace | Stool softener | Constipation | OTC | |
| 181 | Temazepam | Restoril | Benzodiazepine | Insomnia | C-IV | |
| 182 | Benazepril | Lotensin | ACE inhibitor | High blood pressure | Rx | |
| 183 | Brimonidine | Alphagan P | Alpha-2 agonist (eye drop) | Glaucoma | Rx | |
| 184 | Sacubitril/valsartan | Entresto | ARNI (neprilysin inhibitor + ARB) | Heart failure | Rx | |
| 185 | Valproate (divalproex, valproic acid) | Depakote, Depakote ER, Depakene | Anticonvulsant / mood stabilizer | Epilepsy, bipolar mania, migraine prevention | Rx | High-alert |
| 186 | Nebivolol | Bystolic | Beta-blocker (beta-1 selective) | High blood pressure | Rx | |
| 187 | Acyclovir | Zovirax | Antiviral | Herpes, shingles, chickenpox | Rx | |
| 188 | Morphine | MS Contin | Opioid analgesic | Severe pain | C-II | High-alert |
| 189 | Doxazosin | Cardura | Alpha-1 blocker | BPH, high blood pressure | Rx | |
| 190 | Amlodipine/benazepril | Lotrel | Calcium channel blocker + ACE inhibitor | High blood pressure | Rx | |
| 191 | Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir | Paxlovid | Antiviral (protease inhibitor + booster) | COVID-19 | Rx | |
| 192 | Emtricitabine/tenofovir | Truvada (TDF), Descovy (TAF) | NRTI combination (antiretroviral) | HIV treatment; HIV PrEP (product-specific) | Rx | |
| 193 | Budesonide | Pulmicort, Entocort EC, Uceris, Rhinocort | Corticosteroid | Asthma; Crohn's and ulcerative colitis; allergic rhinitis (nasal) | Rx and OTC (nasal) | |
| 194 | Tacrolimus | Prograf, Envarsus XR; Protopic (ointment) | Calcineurin inhibitor (immunosuppressant) | Transplant rejection prevention; eczema (ointment) | Rx | High-alert |
| 195 | Dupilumab | Dupixent | IL-4/IL-13 blocker (monoclonal antibody) | Atopic dermatitis, asthma | Rx | Fridge |
| 196 | Enalapril | Vasotec, Epaned (oral solution) | ACE inhibitor | High blood pressure, heart failure | Rx | |
| 197 | Anastrozole | Arimidex | Aromatase inhibitor | Breast cancer (after menopause) | Rx | |
| 198 | Melatonin | (dietary supplement) | Hormone supplement (not an FDA-approved drug) | Sleep | OTC supplement | |
| 199 | Torsemide | Soaanz, Demadex | Loop diuretic | Edema, high blood pressure | Rx | |
| 200 | Polyethylene glycol 3350 | MiraLAX | Osmotic laxative | Constipation | OTC |
#1 · Cholesterol
Atorvastatin
- Brand
- Lipitor
- Class
- Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor)
- Common use
- High cholesterol
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#2 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Levothyroxine
- Brand
- Synthroid, Levoxyl, Unithroid
- Class
- Thyroid hormone
- Common use
- Hypothyroidism
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#3 · Diabetes
Metformin
- Brand
- Glucophage, Glumetza
- Class
- Biguanide
- Common use
- Type 2 diabetes
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: metFORMIN vs metroNIDAZOLE
#4 · Calcium channel blockers
Amlodipine
- Brand
- Norvasc
- Class
- Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine)
- Common use
- High blood pressure, angina
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: amLODIPine vs aMILoride
#5 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Lisinopril
- Brand
- Zestril, Qbrelis (oral solution)
- Class
- ACE inhibitor
- Common use
- High blood pressure, heart failure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#6 · Breathing and allergy
Albuterol
- Brand
- ProAir HFA, Ventolin HFA, Proventil HFA
- Class
- Short-acting beta-2 agonist (rescue inhaler)
- Common use
- Asthma and COPD symptoms
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#7 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Losartan
- Brand
- Cozaar
- Class
- ARB (angiotensin II receptor blocker)
- Common use
- High blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#8 · Beta-blockers
Metoprolol
- Brand
- Lopressor (tartrate), Toprol-XL (succinate ER)
- Class
- Beta-blocker (beta-1 selective)
- Common use
- High blood pressure, angina, heart failure (succinate ER)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#9 · Cholesterol
Rosuvastatin
- Brand
- Crestor
- Class
- Statin
- Common use
- High cholesterol
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#10 · Stomach and bowel
Omeprazole
- Brand
- Prilosec, Prilosec OTC
- Class
- Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)
- Common use
- GERD, ulcers
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: PriLOSEC vs PROzac
#11 · Seizures, nerve pain, migraine
Gabapentin
- Brand
- Neurontin, Gralise
- Class
- Anticonvulsant (gabapentinoid)
- Common use
- Seizures, nerve pain after shingles
- Federal status
- Rx (not federally controlled)
- Safety notes
- —
#12 · Antidepressants
Sertraline
- Brand
- Zoloft
- Class
- SSRI antidepressant
- Common use
- Depression, anxiety disorders
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#13 · Antidepressants
Escitalopram
- Brand
- Lexapro
- Class
- SSRI antidepressant
- Common use
- Depression, generalized anxiety
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#14 · Diabetes
Semaglutide
- Brand
- Ozempic (injection, tablets), Wegovy (injection, tablets), Rybelsus (tablets)
- Class
- GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Common use
- Type 2 diabetes; weight management (product-specific)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Fridge
#15 · ADHD
Dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (mixed salts)
- Brand
- Adderall, Adderall XR
- Class
- CNS stimulant
- Common use
- ADHD, narcolepsy
- Federal status
- C-II
- Safety notes
- —
#16 · Stomach and bowel
Pantoprazole
- Brand
- Protonix
- Class
- Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)
- Common use
- GERD, erosive esophagitis
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#17 · Antidepressants
Bupropion
- Brand
- Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Zyban
- Class
- Antidepressant (NDRI)
- Common use
- Depression; smoking cessation (Zyban)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: buPROPion vs busPIRone
#18 · Diuretics
Hydrochlorothiazide
- Brand
- Microzide
- Class
- Thiazide diuretic
- Common use
- High blood pressure, edema
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: hydroCHLOROthiazide vs hydrALAZINE, hydrOXYzine
#19 · Antidepressants
Fluoxetine
- Brand
- Prozac
- Class
- SSRI antidepressant
- Common use
- Depression, OCD, panic disorder, bulimia
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: FLUoxetine vs DULoxetine, PARoxetine; PROzac vs PriLOSEC
#20 · Antidepressants
Trazodone
- Brand
- Desyrel
- Class
- Antidepressant (serotonin modulator)
- Common use
- Depression
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: traZODone vs traMADol
#21 · Breathing and allergy
Montelukast
- Brand
- Singulair
- Class
- Leukotriene receptor antagonist
- Common use
- Asthma, allergic rhinitis
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#22 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Amoxicillin
- Brand
- Amoxil
- Class
- Penicillin antibiotic
- Common use
- Bacterial infections
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#23 · Breathing and allergy
Fluticasone
- Brand
- Flonase (nasal), Arnuity Ellipta (inhaled)
- Class
- Corticosteroid (nasal or inhaled)
- Common use
- Allergic rhinitis; asthma (inhaled)
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC (nasal)
- Safety notes
- —
#24 · Prostate, bladder, and ED
Tamsulosin
- Brand
- Flomax
- Class
- Alpha-1 blocker
- Common use
- Enlarged prostate (BPH)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#25 · Blood thinners and other heart drugs
Apixaban
- Brand
- Eliquis
- Class
- Factor Xa inhibitor (anticoagulant)
- Common use
- Stroke prevention in AFib; DVT/PE
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert
#26 · Cholesterol
Simvastatin
- Brand
- Zocor
- Class
- Statin
- Common use
- High cholesterol
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#27 · Diabetes
Insulin glargine
- Brand
- Lantus, Basaglar, Semglee, Toujeo
- Class
- Long-acting insulin
- Common use
- Diabetes
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert; Fridge
#28 · Diabetes
Empagliflozin
- Brand
- Jardiance
- Class
- SGLT2 inhibitor
- Common use
- Type 2 diabetes, heart failure, CKD
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#29 · Diuretics
Furosemide
- Brand
- Lasix
- Class
- Loop diuretic
- Common use
- Edema, high blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#30 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Meloxicam
- Brand
- Mobic
- Class
- NSAID
- Common use
- Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#31 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Hydrocodone/acetaminophen
- Brand
- Norco, Lortab
- Class
- Opioid analgesic combination
- Common use
- Pain
- Federal status
- C-II
- Safety notes
- High-alert; Look-alike: HYDROcodone vs oxyCODONE
#32 · Diabetes
Tirzepatide
- Brand
- Mounjaro, Zepbound
- Class
- GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Common use
- Type 2 diabetes; weight management (Zepbound)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Fridge
#33 · ADHD
Methylphenidate
- Brand
- Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana
- Class
- CNS stimulant
- Common use
- ADHD
- Federal status
- C-II
- Safety notes
- —
#34 · Antidepressants
Duloxetine
- Brand
- Cymbalta
- Class
- SNRI antidepressant
- Common use
- Depression, anxiety, nerve pain, fibromyalgia
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: DULoxetine vs FLUoxetine, PARoxetine
#35 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Prednisone
- Brand
- Rayos
- Class
- Corticosteroid (oral)
- Common use
- Inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: predniSONE vs prednisoLONE
#36 · Beta-blockers
Carvedilol
- Brand
- Coreg
- Class
- Beta-blocker (nonselective, also blocks alpha-1)
- Common use
- Heart failure, high blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#37 · Stomach and bowel
Famotidine
- Brand
- Pepcid
- Class
- H2 blocker
- Common use
- GERD, ulcers, heartburn
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#38 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Ibuprofen
- Brand
- Motrin, Advil
- Class
- NSAID
- Common use
- Pain, fever, inflammation
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#39 · Anxiety and sleep
Buspirone
- Brand
- BuSpar
- Class
- Anxiolytic (not a benzodiazepine)
- Common use
- Generalized anxiety
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: busPIRone vs buPROPion
#40 · Antidepressants
Venlafaxine
- Brand
- Effexor XR
- Class
- SNRI antidepressant
- Common use
- Depression, anxiety, panic disorder
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#41 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Tramadol
- Brand
- Ultram
- Class
- Opioid analgesic
- Common use
- Pain
- Federal status
- C-IV
- Safety notes
- High-alert; Look-alike: traMADol vs traZODone
#42 · Vitamins and minerals
Potassium chloride
- Brand
- Klor-Con, K-Tab
- Class
- Electrolyte supplement
- Common use
- Low potassium
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#43 · Anxiety and sleep
Hydroxyzine
- Brand
- Vistaril (pamoate), Atarax (HCl)
- Class
- First-generation antihistamine
- Common use
- Anxiety, itching
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: hydrOXYzine vs hydrALAZINE, hydroCHLOROthiazide
#44 · Bone, gout, dementia, Parkinson's, eye drops, weight
Allopurinol
- Brand
- Zyloprim
- Class
- Xanthine oxidase inhibitor
- Common use
- Gout, high uric acid
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#45 · Blood thinners and other heart drugs
Clopidogrel
- Brand
- Plavix
- Class
- P2Y12 antiplatelet
- Common use
- Prevent heart attack and stroke; after stents
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#46 · Vitamins and minerals
Ergocalciferol
- Brand
- Drisdol
- Class
- Vitamin D2
- Common use
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#47 · Breathing and allergy
Cetirizine
- Brand
- Zyrtec
- Class
- Second-generation antihistamine
- Common use
- Allergies
- Federal status
- OTC
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: ZyrTEC vs ZyPREXA
#48 · Stomach and bowel
Ondansetron
- Brand
- Zofran
- Class
- 5-HT3 antagonist (antiemetic)
- Common use
- Nausea and vomiting
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#49 · Muscle relaxants
Cyclobenzaprine
- Brand
- Flexeril, Amrix
- Class
- Skeletal muscle relaxant
- Common use
- Muscle spasm
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#50 · Diuretics
Spironolactone
- Brand
- Aldactone
- Class
- Potassium-sparing diuretic (aldosterone antagonist)
- Common use
- Heart failure, high blood pressure, edema
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#51 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Oxycodone
- Brand
- OxyContin, Roxicodone
- Class
- Opioid analgesic
- Common use
- Pain
- Federal status
- C-II
- Safety notes
- High-alert; Look-alike: oxyCODONE vs HYDROcodone, oxyBUTYnin
#52 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Estradiol
- Brand
- Estrace, Vivelle-Dot, Climara, Vagifem
- Class
- Estrogen
- Common use
- Menopause symptoms
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#53 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Aspirin
- Brand
- Bayer, Ecotrin
- Class
- Salicylate (NSAID; antiplatelet at low dose)
- Common use
- Pain, fever; clot prevention
- Federal status
- OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#54 · Diabetes
Glipizide
- Brand
- Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL
- Class
- Sulfonylurea
- Common use
- Type 2 diabetes
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert; Look-alike: glipiZIDE vs glyBURIDE
#55 · Anxiety and sleep
Zolpidem
- Brand
- Ambien
- Class
- Sedative-hypnotic ("Z-drug")
- Common use
- Insomnia
- Federal status
- C-IV
- Safety notes
- —
#56 · Seizures, nerve pain, migraine
Lamotrigine
- Brand
- Lamictal
- Class
- Anticonvulsant
- Common use
- Epilepsy, bipolar maintenance
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert; Look-alike: lamoTRIgine vs lamiVUDine; LaMICtal vs LamISIL
#57 · Anxiety and sleep
Alprazolam
- Brand
- Xanax
- Class
- Benzodiazepine
- Common use
- Anxiety, panic disorder
- Federal status
- C-IV
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: ALPRAZolam vs clonazePAM, LORazepam
#58 · Antidepressants
Citalopram
- Brand
- Celexa
- Class
- SSRI antidepressant
- Common use
- Depression
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: CeleXA vs CeleBREX
#59 · Seizures, nerve pain, migraine
Pregabalin
- Brand
- Lyrica
- Class
- Anticonvulsant (gabapentinoid)
- Common use
- Nerve pain, fibromyalgia, seizures
- Federal status
- C-V
- Safety notes
- —
#60 · Vitamins and minerals
Cholecalciferol
- Brand
- (vitamin D3; many store brands)
- Class
- Vitamin D3
- Common use
- Vitamin D supplementation
- Federal status
- OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#61 · Anxiety and sleep
Clonazepam
- Brand
- Klonopin
- Class
- Benzodiazepine
- Common use
- Seizures, panic disorder
- Federal status
- C-IV
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: clonazePAM vs ALPRAZolam, LORazepam, cloNIDine
#62 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Azithromycin
- Brand
- Zithromax, Z-Pak
- Class
- Macrolide antibiotic
- Common use
- Bacterial infections
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#63 · Cholesterol
Pravastatin
- Brand
- Pravachol
- Class
- Statin
- Common use
- High cholesterol
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#64 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Valsartan
- Brand
- Diovan
- Class
- ARB
- Common use
- High blood pressure, heart failure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#65 · Cholesterol
Ezetimibe
- Brand
- Zetia
- Class
- Cholesterol absorption inhibitor
- Common use
- High cholesterol
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#66 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Diclofenac
- Brand
- Voltaren (gel), Cambia
- Class
- NSAID
- Common use
- Arthritis pain
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC (1% gel)
- Safety notes
- —
#67 · Diabetes
Insulin lispro
- Brand
- Humalog, Admelog, Lyumjev
- Class
- Rapid-acting insulin
- Common use
- Diabetes
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert; Look-alike: HumaLOG vs HumuLIN; Fridge
#68 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone
- Brand
- Loestrin, Junel, Microgestin
- Class
- Combined hormonal contraceptive
- Common use
- Contraception
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#69 · Beta-blockers
Propranolol
- Brand
- Inderal LA
- Class
- Beta-blocker (nonselective)
- Common use
- High blood pressure, migraine prevention, tremor
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#70 · Bone, gout, dementia, Parkinson's, eye drops, weight
Latanoprost
- Brand
- Xalatan
- Class
- Prostaglandin analog (eye drop)
- Common use
- Glaucoma, high eye pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Fridge
#71 · Beta-blockers
Atenolol
- Brand
- Tenormin
- Class
- Beta-blocker (beta-1 selective)
- Common use
- High blood pressure, angina
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#72 · ADHD
Lisdexamfetamine
- Brand
- Vyvanse
- Class
- CNS stimulant (prodrug)
- Common use
- ADHD, binge-eating disorder
- Federal status
- C-II
- Safety notes
- —
#73 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Doxycycline
- Brand
- Vibramycin, Doryx
- Class
- Tetracycline antibiotic
- Common use
- Bacterial infections, acne
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#74 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Amoxicillin/clavulanate
- Brand
- Augmentin
- Class
- Penicillin + beta-lactamase inhibitor
- Common use
- Bacterial infections
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Fridge
#75 · Diabetes
Dulaglutide
- Brand
- Trulicity
- Class
- GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Common use
- Type 2 diabetes
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Fridge
#76 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide
- Brand
- Zestoretic
- Class
- ACE inhibitor + thiazide diuretic
- Common use
- High blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#77 · Anxiety and sleep
Lorazepam
- Brand
- Ativan
- Class
- Benzodiazepine
- Common use
- Anxiety
- Federal status
- C-IV
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: LORazepam vs ALPRAZolam, clonazePAM
#78 · Breathing and allergy
Fluticasone/salmeterol
- Brand
- Advair Diskus, Advair HFA, Wixela Inhub
- Class
- Inhaled corticosteroid + LABA
- Common use
- Asthma, COPD maintenance
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#79 · Diabetes
Insulin aspart
- Brand
- NovoLog, Fiasp
- Class
- Rapid-acting insulin
- Common use
- Diabetes
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert; Look-alike: NovoLOG vs NovoLIN; Fridge
#80 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Celecoxib
- Brand
- Celebrex
- Class
- COX-2 selective NSAID
- Common use
- Arthritis pain
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: CeleBREX vs CeleXA
#81 · Prostate, bladder, and ED
Finasteride
- Brand
- Proscar (5 mg), Propecia (1 mg)
- Class
- 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor
- Common use
- BPH; male-pattern hair loss
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#82 · Antipsychotics and mood stabilizers
Quetiapine
- Brand
- Seroquel
- Class
- Atypical antipsychotic
- Common use
- Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: QUEtiapine vs OLANZapine
#83 · Blood thinners and other heart drugs
Clonidine
- Brand
- Catapres, Kapvay
- Class
- Central alpha-2 agonist
- Common use
- High blood pressure; ADHD (Kapvay)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: cloNIDine vs clonazePAM
#84 · Antipsychotics and mood stabilizers
Aripiprazole
- Brand
- Abilify
- Class
- Atypical antipsychotic
- Common use
- Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, add-on for depression
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: ARIPiprazole vs RABEprazole
#85 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Cephalexin
- Brand
- Keflex
- Class
- First-generation cephalosporin
- Common use
- Bacterial infections
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#86 · Bone, gout, dementia, Parkinson's, eye drops, weight
Alendronate
- Brand
- Fosamax
- Class
- Bisphosphonate
- Common use
- Osteoporosis
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#87 · Seizures, nerve pain, migraine
Topiramate
- Brand
- Topamax
- Class
- Anticonvulsant
- Common use
- Epilepsy, migraine prevention
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#88 · Muscle relaxants
Tizanidine
- Brand
- Zanaflex
- Class
- Central alpha-2 agonist (muscle relaxant)
- Common use
- Spasticity
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: tiZANidine vs tiaGABine
#89 · Diabetes
Dapagliflozin
- Brand
- Farxiga
- Class
- SGLT2 inhibitor
- Common use
- Type 2 diabetes, heart failure, CKD
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#90 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Oxycodone/acetaminophen
- Brand
- Percocet
- Class
- Opioid analgesic combination
- Common use
- Pain
- Federal status
- C-II
- Safety notes
- High-alert
#91 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Losartan/hydrochlorothiazide
- Brand
- Hyzaar
- Class
- ARB + thiazide diuretic
- Common use
- High blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#92 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Olmesartan
- Brand
- Benicar
- Class
- ARB
- Common use
- High blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#93 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Testosterone
- Brand
- AndroGel, Testim, Depo-Testosterone
- Class
- Androgen (anabolic steroid)
- Common use
- Low testosterone
- Federal status
- C-III
- Safety notes
- —
#94 · Antidepressants
Amitriptyline
- Brand
- Elavil
- Class
- Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA)
- Common use
- Depression
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#95 · Vitamins and minerals
Folic acid
- Brand
- (generic)
- Class
- B vitamin (folate)
- Common use
- Folate deficiency
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#96 · Blood thinners and other heart drugs
Rivaroxaban
- Brand
- Xarelto
- Class
- Factor Xa inhibitor (anticoagulant)
- Common use
- Stroke prevention in AFib; DVT/PE
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert
#97 · Cholesterol
Fenofibrate
- Brand
- Tricor
- Class
- Fibrate
- Common use
- High triglycerides
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#98 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Triamcinolone
- Brand
- Kenalog, Nasacort
- Class
- Corticosteroid
- Common use
- Skin inflammation, allergic rhinitis, joint injection
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC (nasal)
- Safety notes
- —
#99 · Antidepressants
Paroxetine
- Brand
- Paxil, Paxil CR
- Class
- SSRI antidepressant
- Common use
- Depression, anxiety disorders
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: PARoxetine vs DULoxetine, FLUoxetine
#100 · Vitamins and minerals
Ferrous sulfate
- Brand
- Feosol, Slow Fe
- Class
- Iron supplement
- Common use
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Federal status
- OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#101 · Breathing and allergy
Loratadine
- Brand
- Claritin
- Class
- Second-generation antihistamine
- Common use
- Allergies
- Federal status
- OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#102 · Blood thinners and other heart drugs
Warfarin
- Brand
- Jantoven, Coumadin
- Class
- Vitamin K antagonist (anticoagulant)
- Common use
- Clot prevention
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert
#103 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Valacyclovir
- Brand
- Valtrex
- Class
- Antiviral
- Common use
- Herpes, shingles
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: valACYclovir vs valGANciclovir
#104 · Breathing and allergy
Budesonide/formoterol
- Brand
- Symbicort, Breyna
- Class
- Inhaled corticosteroid + LABA
- Common use
- Asthma, COPD
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#105 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Ethinyl estradiol/norgestimate
- Brand
- Sprintec, Tri-Sprintec, Ortho Tri-Cyclen
- Class
- Combined oral contraceptive
- Common use
- Contraception
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#106 · Breathing and allergy
Fluticasone/umeclidinium/vilanterol
- Brand
- Trelegy Ellipta
- Class
- Inhaled corticosteroid + LAMA + LABA
- Common use
- COPD, asthma maintenance
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#107 · Muscle relaxants
Methocarbamol
- Brand
- Robaxin
- Class
- Skeletal muscle relaxant
- Common use
- Muscle spasm
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#108 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Acetaminophen
- Brand
- Tylenol
- Class
- Analgesic and fever reducer
- Common use
- Pain, fever
- Federal status
- OTC and Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#109 · Calcium channel blockers
Diltiazem
- Brand
- Cardizem, Cardizem CD, Tiazac
- Class
- Calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine)
- Common use
- High blood pressure, angina, AFib rate control
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: dilTIAZem vs diazePAM
#110 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Thyroid (desiccated)
- Brand
- Armour Thyroid, NP Thyroid
- Class
- Thyroid hormone
- Common use
- Hypothyroidism
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#111 · Muscle relaxants
Baclofen
- Brand
- Lioresal, Ozobax
- Class
- Muscle relaxant (GABA-B agonist)
- Common use
- Spasticity
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#112 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Naproxen
- Brand
- Naprosyn, Anaprox DS, Aleve
- Class
- NSAID
- Common use
- Pain, arthritis
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#113 · Seizures, nerve pain, migraine
Sumatriptan
- Brand
- Imitrex
- Class
- Triptan (5-HT1B/1D agonist)
- Common use
- Migraine attacks
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: SUMAtriptan vs SITagliptin
#114 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Prednisolone
- Brand
- Orapred ODT, Millipred, Pred Forte (eye)
- Class
- Corticosteroid
- Common use
- Inflammation, asthma flares (liquid), eye inflammation
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: prednisoLONE vs predniSONE
#115 · Stomach and bowel
Esomeprazole
- Brand
- Nexium, Nexium 24HR
- Class
- Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)
- Common use
- GERD
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: NexIUM vs NexAVAR
#116 · Antidepressants
Mirtazapine
- Brand
- Remeron
- Class
- Antidepressant (tetracyclic)
- Common use
- Depression
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#117 · Seizures, nerve pain, migraine
Levetiracetam
- Brand
- Keppra
- Class
- Anticonvulsant
- Common use
- Epilepsy
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: levETIRAcetam vs levoFLOXacin
#118 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Norethindrone
- Brand
- Camila, Errin, Heather; Aygestin (5 mg)
- Class
- Progestin
- Common use
- Progestin-only contraception; abnormal bleeding (5 mg)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#119 · Prostate, bladder, and ED
Tadalafil
- Brand
- Cialis, Adcirca
- Class
- PDE-5 inhibitor
- Common use
- ED, BPH; pulmonary hypertension (Adcirca)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#120 · Calcium channel blockers
Nifedipine
- Brand
- Procardia XL, Adalat CC
- Class
- Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine)
- Common use
- High blood pressure, angina
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: NIFEdipine vs niCARdipine
#121 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Progesterone
- Brand
- Prometrium
- Class
- Progestin (progesterone)
- Common use
- Endometrial protection with estrogen; missed periods
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#122 · Diabetes
Insulin degludec
- Brand
- Tresiba
- Class
- Ultra-long-acting insulin
- Common use
- Diabetes
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert; Fridge
#123 · Vitamins and minerals
Cyanocobalamin
- Brand
- Nascobal (nasal); injection
- Class
- Vitamin B12
- Common use
- B12 deficiency
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#124 · Blood thinners and other heart drugs
Hydralazine
- Brand
- Apresoline
- Class
- Direct vasodilator
- Common use
- High blood pressure, heart failure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: hydrALAZINE vs hydroCHLOROthiazide, hydrOXYzine
#125 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Adalimumab
- Brand
- Humira; biosimilars such as Hadlima and Hyrimoz
- Class
- TNF blocker (biologic)
- Common use
- Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn's, ulcerative colitis
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Fridge
#126 · Breathing and allergy
Azelastine
- Brand
- Astepro, Astelin
- Class
- Antihistamine (nasal spray)
- Common use
- Allergic rhinitis
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#127 · Diabetes
Sitagliptin
- Brand
- Januvia
- Class
- DPP-4 inhibitor
- Common use
- Type 2 diabetes
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: SITagliptin vs SUMAtriptan
#128 · Diabetes
Glimepiride
- Brand
- Amaryl
- Class
- Sulfonylurea
- Common use
- Type 2 diabetes
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert
#129 · Diuretics
Chlorthalidone
- Brand
- Thalitone
- Class
- Thiazide-like diuretic
- Common use
- High blood pressure, edema
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#130 · Prostate, bladder, and ED
Oxybutynin
- Brand
- Ditropan XL, Oxytrol
- Class
- Antimuscarinic
- Common use
- Overactive bladder
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC (patch)
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: oxyBUTYnin vs oxyCODONE
#131 · Diabetes
Pioglitazone
- Brand
- Actos
- Class
- Thiazolidinedione (TZD)
- Common use
- Type 2 diabetes
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#132 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Ketoconazole
- Brand
- Nizoral
- Class
- Azole antifungal (mostly topical and shampoo)
- Common use
- Fungal skin infections, dandruff
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#133 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Irbesartan
- Brand
- Avapro
- Class
- ARB
- Common use
- High blood pressure, diabetic kidney disease
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#134 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Hydroxychloroquine
- Brand
- Plaquenil
- Class
- Antimalarial / DMARD
- Common use
- Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, malaria
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#135 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim
- Brand
- Bactrim, Bactrim DS
- Class
- Sulfonamide antibiotic combination
- Common use
- UTIs and other infections
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#136 · Breathing and allergy
Benzonatate
- Brand
- Tessalon Perles
- Class
- Antitussive
- Common use
- Cough
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#137 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Nitrofurantoin
- Brand
- Macrobid, Macrodantin
- Class
- Urinary antibacterial
- Common use
- Bladder infections (uncomplicated cystitis)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#138 · Blood thinners and other heart drugs
Isosorbide (mononitrate/dinitrate)
- Brand
- Imdur, Isordil
- Class
- Nitrate
- Common use
- Angina prevention
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#139 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Methylprednisolone
- Brand
- Medrol (Dosepak), Solu-Medrol
- Class
- Corticosteroid
- Common use
- Inflammation
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: methylPREDNISolone vs medroxyPROGESTERone
#140 · Diuretics
Triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide
- Brand
- Dyazide, Maxzide
- Class
- Potassium-sparing + thiazide diuretic
- Common use
- High blood pressure, edema
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#141 · Breathing and allergy
Levocetirizine
- Brand
- Xyzal
- Class
- Second-generation antihistamine
- Common use
- Allergies
- Federal status
- OTC and Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#142 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Clindamycin
- Brand
- Cleocin, Cleocin T
- Class
- Lincosamide antibiotic
- Common use
- Infections; acne (topical)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#143 · ADHD
Atomoxetine
- Brand
- Strattera
- Class
- Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (non-stimulant)
- Common use
- ADHD
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#144 · ADHD
Dexmethylphenidate
- Brand
- Focalin, Focalin XR
- Class
- CNS stimulant
- Common use
- ADHD
- Federal status
- C-II
- Safety notes
- —
#145 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Methotrexate
- Brand
- Trexall, Otrexup, Xatmep
- Class
- Antimetabolite / DMARD
- Common use
- Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis; some cancers
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert
#146 · Bone, gout, dementia, Parkinson's, eye drops, weight
Donepezil
- Brand
- Aricept
- Class
- Cholinesterase inhibitor
- Common use
- Alzheimer's dementia
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#147 · Antidepressants
Desvenlafaxine
- Brand
- Pristiq
- Class
- SNRI antidepressant
- Common use
- Depression
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#148 · Bone, gout, dementia, Parkinson's, eye drops, weight
Ropinirole
- Brand
- Requip
- Class
- Dopamine agonist
- Common use
- Parkinson's disease, restless legs
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: rOPINIRole vs risperiDONE
#149 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Clobetasol
- Brand
- Temovate, Clobex
- Class
- Super-high-potency topical corticosteroid
- Common use
- Psoriasis, eczema
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#150 · Breathing and allergy
Fluticasone/vilanterol
- Brand
- Breo Ellipta
- Class
- Inhaled corticosteroid + LABA
- Common use
- Asthma, COPD
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#151 · Breathing and allergy
Albuterol/ipratropium
- Brand
- Combivent Respimat, DuoNeb
- Class
- Short-acting beta agonist + anticholinergic
- Common use
- COPD
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#152 · Bone, gout, dementia, Parkinson's, eye drops, weight
Phentermine
- Brand
- Adipex-P, Lomaira
- Class
- Sympathomimetic appetite suppressant
- Common use
- Short-term weight loss
- Federal status
- C-IV
- Safety notes
- —
#153 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Ofloxacin
- Brand
- Ocuflox (eye); otic solution
- Class
- Fluoroquinolone
- Common use
- Eye and ear infections
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#154 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Mupirocin
- Brand
- Bactroban
- Class
- Topical antibiotic
- Common use
- Impetigo and other skin infections
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#155 · Calcium channel blockers
Verapamil
- Brand
- Calan SR, Verelan
- Class
- Calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine)
- Common use
- High blood pressure, angina, arrhythmias
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#156 · Antipsychotics and mood stabilizers
Olanzapine
- Brand
- Zyprexa
- Class
- Atypical antipsychotic
- Common use
- Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: OLANZapine vs QUEtiapine; ZyPREXA vs ZyrTEC
#157 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Metronidazole
- Brand
- Flagyl, MetroGel
- Class
- Nitroimidazole antibiotic/antiprotozoal
- Common use
- Anaerobic infections, BV, trichomoniasis
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: metroNIDAZOLE vs metFORMIN
#158 · Blood thinners and other heart drugs
Prazosin
- Brand
- Minipress
- Class
- Alpha-1 blocker
- Common use
- High blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#159 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Ciprofloxacin
- Brand
- Cipro
- Class
- Fluoroquinolone antibiotic
- Common use
- Bacterial infections
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#160 · Prostate, bladder, and ED
Sildenafil
- Brand
- Viagra, Revatio
- Class
- PDE-5 inhibitor
- Common use
- ED; pulmonary arterial hypertension (Revatio)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#161 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Ethinyl estradiol/levonorgestrel
- Brand
- Levora, Aviane, Seasonique
- Class
- Combined oral contraceptive
- Common use
- Contraception
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#162 · Cholesterol
Evolocumab
- Brand
- Repatha
- Class
- PCSK9 inhibitor (monoclonal antibody)
- Common use
- High LDL cholesterol
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Fridge
#163 · Stomach and bowel
Mesalamine
- Brand
- Lialda, Apriso, Pentasa, Canasa
- Class
- Aminosalicylate
- Common use
- Ulcerative colitis
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#164 · Bone, gout, dementia, Parkinson's, eye drops, weight
Memantine
- Brand
- Namenda
- Class
- NMDA receptor antagonist
- Common use
- Alzheimer's dementia
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#165 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Ethinyl estradiol/etonogestrel
- Brand
- NuvaRing, EluRyng
- Class
- Contraceptive vaginal ring
- Common use
- Contraception
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Fridge
#166 · Anxiety and sleep
Diazepam
- Brand
- Valium
- Class
- Benzodiazepine
- Common use
- Anxiety, muscle spasm, seizures, alcohol withdrawal
- Federal status
- C-IV
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: diazePAM vs dilTIAZem
#167 · Antipsychotics and mood stabilizers
Lithium
- Brand
- Lithobid
- Class
- Mood stabilizer
- Common use
- Bipolar disorder
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#168 · Antidepressants
Nortriptyline
- Brand
- Pamelor
- Class
- Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA)
- Common use
- Depression
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#169 · Beta-blockers
Timolol
- Brand
- Timoptic
- Class
- Beta-blocker (eye drop)
- Common use
- Glaucoma
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#170 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Cefdinir
- Brand
- Omnicef
- Class
- Third-generation cephalosporin
- Common use
- Bacterial infections
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#171 · Vitamins and minerals
Magnesium salts
- Brand
- Mag-Ox, Slow-Mag
- Class
- Mineral supplement
- Common use
- Low magnesium
- Federal status
- OTC and Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#172 · Stomach and bowel
Meclizine
- Brand
- Antivert, Bonine
- Class
- Antihistamine (antiemetic)
- Common use
- Vertigo, motion sickness
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#173 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Cyclosporine
- Brand
- Restasis, Cequa (eye); Neoral, Sandimmune (oral)
- Class
- Calcineurin inhibitor (immunosuppressant)
- Common use
- Dry eye (drops); transplant rejection prevention (oral)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert; Look-alike: cycloSPORINE vs cycloSERINE; SandIMMUNE vs SandoSTATIN
#174 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Fluconazole
- Brand
- Diflucan
- Class
- Azole antifungal
- Common use
- Yeast infections
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#175 · Seizures, nerve pain, migraine
Rimegepant
- Brand
- Nurtec ODT
- Class
- CGRP receptor antagonist ("gepant")
- Common use
- Migraine treatment and prevention
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#176 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Tretinoin
- Brand
- Retin-A
- Class
- Topical retinoid
- Common use
- Acne
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Look-alike: tretinoin vs ISOtretinoin
#177 · Cholesterol
Lovastatin
- Brand
- Mevacor, Altoprev
- Class
- Statin
- Common use
- High cholesterol
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#178 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol
- Brand
- Yaz, Yasmin
- Class
- Combined oral contraceptive
- Common use
- Contraception
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#179 · Breathing and allergy
Tiotropium
- Brand
- Spiriva HandiHaler, Spiriva Respimat
- Class
- Long-acting anticholinergic (LAMA)
- Common use
- COPD, asthma maintenance
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#180 · Stomach and bowel
Docusate
- Brand
- Colace
- Class
- Stool softener
- Common use
- Constipation
- Federal status
- OTC
- Safety notes
- —
#181 · Anxiety and sleep
Temazepam
- Brand
- Restoril
- Class
- Benzodiazepine
- Common use
- Insomnia
- Federal status
- C-IV
- Safety notes
- —
#182 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Benazepril
- Brand
- Lotensin
- Class
- ACE inhibitor
- Common use
- High blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#183 · Bone, gout, dementia, Parkinson's, eye drops, weight
Brimonidine
- Brand
- Alphagan P
- Class
- Alpha-2 agonist (eye drop)
- Common use
- Glaucoma
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#184 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Sacubitril/valsartan
- Brand
- Entresto
- Class
- ARNI (neprilysin inhibitor + ARB)
- Common use
- Heart failure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#185 · Antipsychotics and mood stabilizers
Valproate (divalproex, valproic acid)
- Brand
- Depakote, Depakote ER, Depakene
- Class
- Anticonvulsant / mood stabilizer
- Common use
- Epilepsy, bipolar mania, migraine prevention
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert
#186 · Beta-blockers
Nebivolol
- Brand
- Bystolic
- Class
- Beta-blocker (beta-1 selective)
- Common use
- High blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#187 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Acyclovir
- Brand
- Zovirax
- Class
- Antiviral
- Common use
- Herpes, shingles, chickenpox
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#188 · Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others
Morphine
- Brand
- MS Contin
- Class
- Opioid analgesic
- Common use
- Severe pain
- Federal status
- C-II
- Safety notes
- High-alert
#189 · Prostate, bladder, and ED
Doxazosin
- Brand
- Cardura
- Class
- Alpha-1 blocker
- Common use
- BPH, high blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#190 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Amlodipine/benazepril
- Brand
- Lotrel
- Class
- Calcium channel blocker + ACE inhibitor
- Common use
- High blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#191 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir
- Brand
- Paxlovid
- Class
- Antiviral (protease inhibitor + booster)
- Common use
- COVID-19
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#192 · Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals
Emtricitabine/tenofovir
- Brand
- Truvada (TDF), Descovy (TAF)
- Class
- NRTI combination (antiretroviral)
- Common use
- HIV treatment; HIV PrEP (product-specific)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#193 · Breathing and allergy
Budesonide
- Brand
- Pulmicort, Entocort EC, Uceris, Rhinocort
- Class
- Corticosteroid
- Common use
- Asthma; Crohn's and ulcerative colitis; allergic rhinitis (nasal)
- Federal status
- Rx and OTC (nasal)
- Safety notes
- —
#194 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Tacrolimus
- Brand
- Prograf, Envarsus XR; Protopic (ointment)
- Class
- Calcineurin inhibitor (immunosuppressant)
- Common use
- Transplant rejection prevention; eczema (ointment)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- High-alert
#195 · Steroids, immune, and skin
Dupilumab
- Brand
- Dupixent
- Class
- IL-4/IL-13 blocker (monoclonal antibody)
- Common use
- Atopic dermatitis, asthma
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- Fridge
#196 · Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI
Enalapril
- Brand
- Vasotec, Epaned (oral solution)
- Class
- ACE inhibitor
- Common use
- High blood pressure, heart failure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#197 · Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives
Anastrozole
- Brand
- Arimidex
- Class
- Aromatase inhibitor
- Common use
- Breast cancer (after menopause)
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#198 · Anxiety and sleep
Melatonin
- Brand
- (dietary supplement)
- Class
- Hormone supplement (not an FDA-approved drug)
- Common use
- Sleep
- Federal status
- OTC supplement
- Safety notes
- —
#199 · Diuretics
Torsemide
- Brand
- Soaanz, Demadex
- Class
- Loop diuretic
- Common use
- Edema, high blood pressure
- Federal status
- Rx
- Safety notes
- —
#200 · Stomach and bowel
Polyethylene glycol 3350
- Brand
- MiraLAX
- Class
- Osmotic laxative
- Common use
- Constipation
- Federal status
- OTC
- Safety notes
- —
How to read the last two columns. Federal status: C-II to C-V are DEA controlled-substance schedules; Rx means prescription-only and not federally controlled; OTC means some forms are sold without a prescription. States can be stricter. Safety notes: High-alert means the drug falls in a category on ISMP's community/ambulatory high-alert list. Look-alike gives the FDA or ISMP Tall Man spelling for a name pair that gets confused. Fridge means at least one common form has a refrigeration instruction—see the storage table below for the exact rule.
About brand names. They identify products you may see on the exam or at work. Some older brands are no longer sold in the U.S., and most bottles carry the generic name. Combination products are written as one drug/other drug.
Rank order adapted from ClinCalc DrugStats Database v2026.08 (Sean P. Kane, PharmD), built from AHRQ Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data and licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. The brand, class, use, status, and safety-note columns are Castleport additions. This table is shared under the same license.
Use the list as flashcards
Every row above is one card. Here is card 1:
Show answer
Front: Atorvastatin
Back: Lipitor · Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) · High cholesterol · Rx
Run each card both ways: generic to brand, then brand to generic. Then do a third pass on class and use. If you're working from a printout, cover everything right of the generic name, say the answer out loud, and slide the cover over to check. Saying "I knew that" after you look doesn't count.
Grouped by class, the 200 drugs fall into these study sets. The four-week plan further down works through them in order.
| Study group | Drugs |
|---|---|
| Cholesterol | 8 |
| Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI | 11 |
| Beta-blockers | 6 |
| Calcium channel blockers | 4 |
| Diuretics | 6 |
| Blood thinners and other heart drugs | 8 |
| Diabetes | 14 |
| Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives | 12 |
| Antidepressants | 13 |
| Anxiety and sleep | 9 |
| ADHD | 5 |
| Antipsychotics and mood stabilizers | 5 |
| Seizures, nerve pain, migraine | 7 |
| Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others | 12 |
| Muscle relaxants | 4 |
| Breathing and allergy | 15 |
| Stomach and bowel | 9 |
| Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals | 19 |
| Steroids, immune, and skin | 12 |
| Prostate, bladder, and ED | 6 |
| Bone, gout, dementia, Parkinson's, eye drops, weight | 8 |
| Vitamins and minerals | 7 |
Flashcards
Study all 200 cards in both directions. The interactive deck is a review aid; the complete deck remains below with native answer disclosures.
Card 1 of 200 · Cholesterol
Atorvastatin
0 got it · 0 again. Marks reset when this page is refreshed.
FC-001 · Card 1 of 200 · Atorvastatin — Show answer
Brand: Lipitor
Class: Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor)
Common use: High cholesterol
Federal status: Rx
FC-002 · Card 2 of 200 · Levothyroxine — Show answer
Brand: Synthroid, Levoxyl, Unithroid
Class: Thyroid hormone
Common use: Hypothyroidism
Federal status: Rx
FC-003 · Card 3 of 200 · Metformin — Show answer
Brand: Glucophage, Glumetza
Class: Biguanide
Common use: Type 2 diabetes
Federal status: Rx
FC-004 · Card 4 of 200 · Amlodipine — Show answer
Brand: Norvasc
Class: Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine)
Common use: High blood pressure, angina
Federal status: Rx
FC-005 · Card 5 of 200 · Lisinopril — Show answer
Brand: Zestril, Qbrelis (oral solution)
Class: ACE inhibitor
Common use: High blood pressure, heart failure
Federal status: Rx
FC-006 · Card 6 of 200 · Albuterol — Show answer
Brand: ProAir HFA, Ventolin HFA, Proventil HFA
Class: Short-acting beta-2 agonist (rescue inhaler)
Common use: Asthma and COPD symptoms
Federal status: Rx
FC-007 · Card 7 of 200 · Losartan — Show answer
Brand: Cozaar
Class: ARB (angiotensin II receptor blocker)
Common use: High blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-008 · Card 8 of 200 · Metoprolol — Show answer
Brand: Lopressor (tartrate), Toprol-XL (succinate ER)
Class: Beta-blocker (beta-1 selective)
Common use: High blood pressure, angina, heart failure (succinate ER)
Federal status: Rx
FC-009 · Card 9 of 200 · Rosuvastatin — Show answer
Brand: Crestor
Class: Statin
Common use: High cholesterol
Federal status: Rx
FC-010 · Card 10 of 200 · Omeprazole — Show answer
Brand: Prilosec, Prilosec OTC
Class: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)
Common use: GERD, ulcers
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-011 · Card 11 of 200 · Gabapentin — Show answer
Brand: Neurontin, Gralise
Class: Anticonvulsant (gabapentinoid)
Common use: Seizures, nerve pain after shingles
Federal status: Rx (not federally controlled)
FC-012 · Card 12 of 200 · Sertraline — Show answer
Brand: Zoloft
Class: SSRI antidepressant
Common use: Depression, anxiety disorders
Federal status: Rx
FC-013 · Card 13 of 200 · Escitalopram — Show answer
Brand: Lexapro
Class: SSRI antidepressant
Common use: Depression, generalized anxiety
Federal status: Rx
FC-014 · Card 14 of 200 · Semaglutide — Show answer
Brand: Ozempic (injection, tablets), Wegovy (injection, tablets), Rybelsus (tablets)
Class: GLP-1 receptor agonist
Common use: Type 2 diabetes; weight management (product-specific)
Federal status: Rx
FC-015 · Card 15 of 200 · Dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (mixed salts) — Show answer
Brand: Adderall, Adderall XR
Class: CNS stimulant
Common use: ADHD, narcolepsy
Federal status: C-II
FC-016 · Card 16 of 200 · Pantoprazole — Show answer
Brand: Protonix
Class: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)
Common use: GERD, erosive esophagitis
Federal status: Rx
FC-017 · Card 17 of 200 · Bupropion — Show answer
Brand: Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Zyban
Class: Antidepressant (NDRI)
Common use: Depression; smoking cessation (Zyban)
Federal status: Rx
FC-018 · Card 18 of 200 · Hydrochlorothiazide — Show answer
Brand: Microzide
Class: Thiazide diuretic
Common use: High blood pressure, edema
Federal status: Rx
FC-019 · Card 19 of 200 · Fluoxetine — Show answer
Brand: Prozac
Class: SSRI antidepressant
Common use: Depression, OCD, panic disorder, bulimia
Federal status: Rx
FC-020 · Card 20 of 200 · Trazodone — Show answer
Brand: Desyrel
Class: Antidepressant (serotonin modulator)
Common use: Depression
Federal status: Rx
FC-021 · Card 21 of 200 · Montelukast — Show answer
Brand: Singulair
Class: Leukotriene receptor antagonist
Common use: Asthma, allergic rhinitis
Federal status: Rx
FC-022 · Card 22 of 200 · Amoxicillin — Show answer
Brand: Amoxil
Class: Penicillin antibiotic
Common use: Bacterial infections
Federal status: Rx
FC-023 · Card 23 of 200 · Fluticasone — Show answer
Brand: Flonase (nasal), Arnuity Ellipta (inhaled)
Class: Corticosteroid (nasal or inhaled)
Common use: Allergic rhinitis; asthma (inhaled)
Federal status: Rx and OTC (nasal)
FC-024 · Card 24 of 200 · Tamsulosin — Show answer
Brand: Flomax
Class: Alpha-1 blocker
Common use: Enlarged prostate (BPH)
Federal status: Rx
FC-025 · Card 25 of 200 · Apixaban — Show answer
Brand: Eliquis
Class: Factor Xa inhibitor (anticoagulant)
Common use: Stroke prevention in AFib; DVT/PE
Federal status: Rx
FC-026 · Card 26 of 200 · Simvastatin — Show answer
Brand: Zocor
Class: Statin
Common use: High cholesterol
Federal status: Rx
FC-027 · Card 27 of 200 · Insulin glargine — Show answer
Brand: Lantus, Basaglar, Semglee, Toujeo
Class: Long-acting insulin
Common use: Diabetes
Federal status: Rx
FC-028 · Card 28 of 200 · Empagliflozin — Show answer
Brand: Jardiance
Class: SGLT2 inhibitor
Common use: Type 2 diabetes, heart failure, CKD
Federal status: Rx
FC-029 · Card 29 of 200 · Furosemide — Show answer
Brand: Lasix
Class: Loop diuretic
Common use: Edema, high blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-030 · Card 30 of 200 · Meloxicam — Show answer
Brand: Mobic
Class: NSAID
Common use: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis
Federal status: Rx
FC-031 · Card 31 of 200 · Hydrocodone/acetaminophen — Show answer
Brand: Norco, Lortab
Class: Opioid analgesic combination
Common use: Pain
Federal status: C-II
FC-032 · Card 32 of 200 · Tirzepatide — Show answer
Brand: Mounjaro, Zepbound
Class: GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
Common use: Type 2 diabetes; weight management (Zepbound)
Federal status: Rx
FC-033 · Card 33 of 200 · Methylphenidate — Show answer
Brand: Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana
Class: CNS stimulant
Common use: ADHD
Federal status: C-II
FC-034 · Card 34 of 200 · Duloxetine — Show answer
Brand: Cymbalta
Class: SNRI antidepressant
Common use: Depression, anxiety, nerve pain, fibromyalgia
Federal status: Rx
FC-035 · Card 35 of 200 · Prednisone — Show answer
Brand: Rayos
Class: Corticosteroid (oral)
Common use: Inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions
Federal status: Rx
FC-036 · Card 36 of 200 · Carvedilol — Show answer
Brand: Coreg
Class: Beta-blocker (nonselective, also blocks alpha-1)
Common use: Heart failure, high blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-037 · Card 37 of 200 · Famotidine — Show answer
Brand: Pepcid
Class: H2 blocker
Common use: GERD, ulcers, heartburn
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-038 · Card 38 of 200 · Ibuprofen — Show answer
Brand: Motrin, Advil
Class: NSAID
Common use: Pain, fever, inflammation
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-039 · Card 39 of 200 · Buspirone — Show answer
Brand: BuSpar
Class: Anxiolytic (not a benzodiazepine)
Common use: Generalized anxiety
Federal status: Rx
FC-040 · Card 40 of 200 · Venlafaxine — Show answer
Brand: Effexor XR
Class: SNRI antidepressant
Common use: Depression, anxiety, panic disorder
Federal status: Rx
FC-041 · Card 41 of 200 · Tramadol — Show answer
Brand: Ultram
Class: Opioid analgesic
Common use: Pain
Federal status: C-IV
FC-042 · Card 42 of 200 · Potassium chloride — Show answer
Brand: Klor-Con, K-Tab
Class: Electrolyte supplement
Common use: Low potassium
Federal status: Rx
FC-043 · Card 43 of 200 · Hydroxyzine — Show answer
Brand: Vistaril (pamoate), Atarax (HCl)
Class: First-generation antihistamine
Common use: Anxiety, itching
Federal status: Rx
FC-044 · Card 44 of 200 · Allopurinol — Show answer
Brand: Zyloprim
Class: Xanthine oxidase inhibitor
Common use: Gout, high uric acid
Federal status: Rx
FC-045 · Card 45 of 200 · Clopidogrel — Show answer
Brand: Plavix
Class: P2Y12 antiplatelet
Common use: Prevent heart attack and stroke; after stents
Federal status: Rx
FC-046 · Card 46 of 200 · Ergocalciferol — Show answer
Brand: Drisdol
Class: Vitamin D2
Common use: Vitamin D deficiency
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-047 · Card 47 of 200 · Cetirizine — Show answer
Brand: Zyrtec
Class: Second-generation antihistamine
Common use: Allergies
Federal status: OTC
FC-048 · Card 48 of 200 · Ondansetron — Show answer
Brand: Zofran
Class: 5-HT3 antagonist (antiemetic)
Common use: Nausea and vomiting
Federal status: Rx
FC-049 · Card 49 of 200 · Cyclobenzaprine — Show answer
Brand: Flexeril, Amrix
Class: Skeletal muscle relaxant
Common use: Muscle spasm
Federal status: Rx
FC-050 · Card 50 of 200 · Spironolactone — Show answer
Brand: Aldactone
Class: Potassium-sparing diuretic (aldosterone antagonist)
Common use: Heart failure, high blood pressure, edema
Federal status: Rx
FC-051 · Card 51 of 200 · Oxycodone — Show answer
Brand: OxyContin, Roxicodone
Class: Opioid analgesic
Common use: Pain
Federal status: C-II
FC-052 · Card 52 of 200 · Estradiol — Show answer
Brand: Estrace, Vivelle-Dot, Climara, Vagifem
Class: Estrogen
Common use: Menopause symptoms
Federal status: Rx
FC-053 · Card 53 of 200 · Aspirin — Show answer
Brand: Bayer, Ecotrin
Class: Salicylate (NSAID; antiplatelet at low dose)
Common use: Pain, fever; clot prevention
Federal status: OTC
FC-054 · Card 54 of 200 · Glipizide — Show answer
Brand: Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL
Class: Sulfonylurea
Common use: Type 2 diabetes
Federal status: Rx
FC-055 · Card 55 of 200 · Zolpidem — Show answer
Brand: Ambien
Class: Sedative-hypnotic ("Z-drug")
Common use: Insomnia
Federal status: C-IV
FC-056 · Card 56 of 200 · Lamotrigine — Show answer
Brand: Lamictal
Class: Anticonvulsant
Common use: Epilepsy, bipolar maintenance
Federal status: Rx
FC-057 · Card 57 of 200 · Alprazolam — Show answer
Brand: Xanax
Class: Benzodiazepine
Common use: Anxiety, panic disorder
Federal status: C-IV
FC-058 · Card 58 of 200 · Citalopram — Show answer
Brand: Celexa
Class: SSRI antidepressant
Common use: Depression
Federal status: Rx
FC-059 · Card 59 of 200 · Pregabalin — Show answer
Brand: Lyrica
Class: Anticonvulsant (gabapentinoid)
Common use: Nerve pain, fibromyalgia, seizures
Federal status: C-V
FC-060 · Card 60 of 200 · Cholecalciferol — Show answer
Brand: (vitamin D3; many store brands)
Class: Vitamin D3
Common use: Vitamin D supplementation
Federal status: OTC
FC-061 · Card 61 of 200 · Clonazepam — Show answer
Brand: Klonopin
Class: Benzodiazepine
Common use: Seizures, panic disorder
Federal status: C-IV
FC-062 · Card 62 of 200 · Azithromycin — Show answer
Brand: Zithromax, Z-Pak
Class: Macrolide antibiotic
Common use: Bacterial infections
Federal status: Rx
FC-063 · Card 63 of 200 · Pravastatin — Show answer
Brand: Pravachol
Class: Statin
Common use: High cholesterol
Federal status: Rx
FC-064 · Card 64 of 200 · Valsartan — Show answer
Brand: Diovan
Class: ARB
Common use: High blood pressure, heart failure
Federal status: Rx
FC-065 · Card 65 of 200 · Ezetimibe — Show answer
Brand: Zetia
Class: Cholesterol absorption inhibitor
Common use: High cholesterol
Federal status: Rx
FC-066 · Card 66 of 200 · Diclofenac — Show answer
Brand: Voltaren (gel), Cambia
Class: NSAID
Common use: Arthritis pain
Federal status: Rx and OTC (1% gel)
FC-067 · Card 67 of 200 · Insulin lispro — Show answer
Brand: Humalog, Admelog, Lyumjev
Class: Rapid-acting insulin
Common use: Diabetes
Federal status: Rx
FC-068 · Card 68 of 200 · Ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone — Show answer
Brand: Loestrin, Junel, Microgestin
Class: Combined hormonal contraceptive
Common use: Contraception
Federal status: Rx
FC-069 · Card 69 of 200 · Propranolol — Show answer
Brand: Inderal LA
Class: Beta-blocker (nonselective)
Common use: High blood pressure, migraine prevention, tremor
Federal status: Rx
FC-070 · Card 70 of 200 · Latanoprost — Show answer
Brand: Xalatan
Class: Prostaglandin analog (eye drop)
Common use: Glaucoma, high eye pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-071 · Card 71 of 200 · Atenolol — Show answer
Brand: Tenormin
Class: Beta-blocker (beta-1 selective)
Common use: High blood pressure, angina
Federal status: Rx
FC-072 · Card 72 of 200 · Lisdexamfetamine — Show answer
Brand: Vyvanse
Class: CNS stimulant (prodrug)
Common use: ADHD, binge-eating disorder
Federal status: C-II
FC-073 · Card 73 of 200 · Doxycycline — Show answer
Brand: Vibramycin, Doryx
Class: Tetracycline antibiotic
Common use: Bacterial infections, acne
Federal status: Rx
FC-074 · Card 74 of 200 · Amoxicillin/clavulanate — Show answer
Brand: Augmentin
Class: Penicillin + beta-lactamase inhibitor
Common use: Bacterial infections
Federal status: Rx
FC-075 · Card 75 of 200 · Dulaglutide — Show answer
Brand: Trulicity
Class: GLP-1 receptor agonist
Common use: Type 2 diabetes
Federal status: Rx
FC-076 · Card 76 of 200 · Lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide — Show answer
Brand: Zestoretic
Class: ACE inhibitor + thiazide diuretic
Common use: High blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-077 · Card 77 of 200 · Lorazepam — Show answer
Brand: Ativan
Class: Benzodiazepine
Common use: Anxiety
Federal status: C-IV
FC-078 · Card 78 of 200 · Fluticasone/salmeterol — Show answer
Brand: Advair Diskus, Advair HFA, Wixela Inhub
Class: Inhaled corticosteroid + LABA
Common use: Asthma, COPD maintenance
Federal status: Rx
FC-079 · Card 79 of 200 · Insulin aspart — Show answer
Brand: NovoLog, Fiasp
Class: Rapid-acting insulin
Common use: Diabetes
Federal status: Rx
FC-080 · Card 80 of 200 · Celecoxib — Show answer
Brand: Celebrex
Class: COX-2 selective NSAID
Common use: Arthritis pain
Federal status: Rx
FC-081 · Card 81 of 200 · Finasteride — Show answer
Brand: Proscar (5 mg), Propecia (1 mg)
Class: 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor
Common use: BPH; male-pattern hair loss
Federal status: Rx
FC-082 · Card 82 of 200 · Quetiapine — Show answer
Brand: Seroquel
Class: Atypical antipsychotic
Common use: Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder
Federal status: Rx
FC-083 · Card 83 of 200 · Clonidine — Show answer
Brand: Catapres, Kapvay
Class: Central alpha-2 agonist
Common use: High blood pressure; ADHD (Kapvay)
Federal status: Rx
FC-084 · Card 84 of 200 · Aripiprazole — Show answer
Brand: Abilify
Class: Atypical antipsychotic
Common use: Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, add-on for depression
Federal status: Rx
FC-085 · Card 85 of 200 · Cephalexin — Show answer
Brand: Keflex
Class: First-generation cephalosporin
Common use: Bacterial infections
Federal status: Rx
FC-086 · Card 86 of 200 · Alendronate — Show answer
Brand: Fosamax
Class: Bisphosphonate
Common use: Osteoporosis
Federal status: Rx
FC-087 · Card 87 of 200 · Topiramate — Show answer
Brand: Topamax
Class: Anticonvulsant
Common use: Epilepsy, migraine prevention
Federal status: Rx
FC-088 · Card 88 of 200 · Tizanidine — Show answer
Brand: Zanaflex
Class: Central alpha-2 agonist (muscle relaxant)
Common use: Spasticity
Federal status: Rx
FC-089 · Card 89 of 200 · Dapagliflozin — Show answer
Brand: Farxiga
Class: SGLT2 inhibitor
Common use: Type 2 diabetes, heart failure, CKD
Federal status: Rx
FC-090 · Card 90 of 200 · Oxycodone/acetaminophen — Show answer
Brand: Percocet
Class: Opioid analgesic combination
Common use: Pain
Federal status: C-II
FC-091 · Card 91 of 200 · Losartan/hydrochlorothiazide — Show answer
Brand: Hyzaar
Class: ARB + thiazide diuretic
Common use: High blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-092 · Card 92 of 200 · Olmesartan — Show answer
Brand: Benicar
Class: ARB
Common use: High blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-093 · Card 93 of 200 · Testosterone — Show answer
Brand: AndroGel, Testim, Depo-Testosterone
Class: Androgen (anabolic steroid)
Common use: Low testosterone
Federal status: C-III
FC-094 · Card 94 of 200 · Amitriptyline — Show answer
Brand: Elavil
Class: Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA)
Common use: Depression
Federal status: Rx
FC-095 · Card 95 of 200 · Folic acid — Show answer
Brand: (generic)
Class: B vitamin (folate)
Common use: Folate deficiency
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-096 · Card 96 of 200 · Rivaroxaban — Show answer
Brand: Xarelto
Class: Factor Xa inhibitor (anticoagulant)
Common use: Stroke prevention in AFib; DVT/PE
Federal status: Rx
FC-097 · Card 97 of 200 · Fenofibrate — Show answer
Brand: Tricor
Class: Fibrate
Common use: High triglycerides
Federal status: Rx
FC-098 · Card 98 of 200 · Triamcinolone — Show answer
Brand: Kenalog, Nasacort
Class: Corticosteroid
Common use: Skin inflammation, allergic rhinitis, joint injection
Federal status: Rx and OTC (nasal)
FC-099 · Card 99 of 200 · Paroxetine — Show answer
Brand: Paxil, Paxil CR
Class: SSRI antidepressant
Common use: Depression, anxiety disorders
Federal status: Rx
FC-100 · Card 100 of 200 · Ferrous sulfate — Show answer
Brand: Feosol, Slow Fe
Class: Iron supplement
Common use: Iron-deficiency anemia
Federal status: OTC
FC-101 · Card 101 of 200 · Loratadine — Show answer
Brand: Claritin
Class: Second-generation antihistamine
Common use: Allergies
Federal status: OTC
FC-102 · Card 102 of 200 · Warfarin — Show answer
Brand: Jantoven, Coumadin
Class: Vitamin K antagonist (anticoagulant)
Common use: Clot prevention
Federal status: Rx
FC-103 · Card 103 of 200 · Valacyclovir — Show answer
Brand: Valtrex
Class: Antiviral
Common use: Herpes, shingles
Federal status: Rx
FC-104 · Card 104 of 200 · Budesonide/formoterol — Show answer
Brand: Symbicort, Breyna
Class: Inhaled corticosteroid + LABA
Common use: Asthma, COPD
Federal status: Rx
FC-105 · Card 105 of 200 · Ethinyl estradiol/norgestimate — Show answer
Brand: Sprintec, Tri-Sprintec, Ortho Tri-Cyclen
Class: Combined oral contraceptive
Common use: Contraception
Federal status: Rx
FC-106 · Card 106 of 200 · Fluticasone/umeclidinium/vilanterol — Show answer
Brand: Trelegy Ellipta
Class: Inhaled corticosteroid + LAMA + LABA
Common use: COPD, asthma maintenance
Federal status: Rx
FC-107 · Card 107 of 200 · Methocarbamol — Show answer
Brand: Robaxin
Class: Skeletal muscle relaxant
Common use: Muscle spasm
Federal status: Rx
FC-108 · Card 108 of 200 · Acetaminophen — Show answer
Brand: Tylenol
Class: Analgesic and fever reducer
Common use: Pain, fever
Federal status: OTC and Rx
FC-109 · Card 109 of 200 · Diltiazem — Show answer
Brand: Cardizem, Cardizem CD, Tiazac
Class: Calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine)
Common use: High blood pressure, angina, AFib rate control
Federal status: Rx
FC-110 · Card 110 of 200 · Thyroid (desiccated) — Show answer
Brand: Armour Thyroid, NP Thyroid
Class: Thyroid hormone
Common use: Hypothyroidism
Federal status: Rx
FC-111 · Card 111 of 200 · Baclofen — Show answer
Brand: Lioresal, Ozobax
Class: Muscle relaxant (GABA-B agonist)
Common use: Spasticity
Federal status: Rx
FC-112 · Card 112 of 200 · Naproxen — Show answer
Brand: Naprosyn, Anaprox DS, Aleve
Class: NSAID
Common use: Pain, arthritis
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-113 · Card 113 of 200 · Sumatriptan — Show answer
Brand: Imitrex
Class: Triptan (5-HT1B/1D agonist)
Common use: Migraine attacks
Federal status: Rx
FC-114 · Card 114 of 200 · Prednisolone — Show answer
Brand: Orapred ODT, Millipred, Pred Forte (eye)
Class: Corticosteroid
Common use: Inflammation, asthma flares (liquid), eye inflammation
Federal status: Rx
FC-115 · Card 115 of 200 · Esomeprazole — Show answer
Brand: Nexium, Nexium 24HR
Class: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)
Common use: GERD
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-116 · Card 116 of 200 · Mirtazapine — Show answer
Brand: Remeron
Class: Antidepressant (tetracyclic)
Common use: Depression
Federal status: Rx
FC-117 · Card 117 of 200 · Levetiracetam — Show answer
Brand: Keppra
Class: Anticonvulsant
Common use: Epilepsy
Federal status: Rx
FC-118 · Card 118 of 200 · Norethindrone — Show answer
Brand: Camila, Errin, Heather; Aygestin (5 mg)
Class: Progestin
Common use: Progestin-only contraception; abnormal bleeding (5 mg)
Federal status: Rx
FC-119 · Card 119 of 200 · Tadalafil — Show answer
Brand: Cialis, Adcirca
Class: PDE-5 inhibitor
Common use: ED, BPH; pulmonary hypertension (Adcirca)
Federal status: Rx
FC-120 · Card 120 of 200 · Nifedipine — Show answer
Brand: Procardia XL, Adalat CC
Class: Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine)
Common use: High blood pressure, angina
Federal status: Rx
FC-121 · Card 121 of 200 · Progesterone — Show answer
Brand: Prometrium
Class: Progestin (progesterone)
Common use: Endometrial protection with estrogen; missed periods
Federal status: Rx
FC-122 · Card 122 of 200 · Insulin degludec — Show answer
Brand: Tresiba
Class: Ultra-long-acting insulin
Common use: Diabetes
Federal status: Rx
FC-123 · Card 123 of 200 · Cyanocobalamin — Show answer
Brand: Nascobal (nasal); injection
Class: Vitamin B12
Common use: B12 deficiency
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-124 · Card 124 of 200 · Hydralazine — Show answer
Brand: Apresoline
Class: Direct vasodilator
Common use: High blood pressure, heart failure
Federal status: Rx
FC-125 · Card 125 of 200 · Adalimumab — Show answer
Brand: Humira; biosimilars such as Hadlima and Hyrimoz
Class: TNF blocker (biologic)
Common use: Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn's, ulcerative colitis
Federal status: Rx
FC-126 · Card 126 of 200 · Azelastine — Show answer
Brand: Astepro, Astelin
Class: Antihistamine (nasal spray)
Common use: Allergic rhinitis
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-127 · Card 127 of 200 · Sitagliptin — Show answer
Brand: Januvia
Class: DPP-4 inhibitor
Common use: Type 2 diabetes
Federal status: Rx
FC-128 · Card 128 of 200 · Glimepiride — Show answer
Brand: Amaryl
Class: Sulfonylurea
Common use: Type 2 diabetes
Federal status: Rx
FC-129 · Card 129 of 200 · Chlorthalidone — Show answer
Brand: Thalitone
Class: Thiazide-like diuretic
Common use: High blood pressure, edema
Federal status: Rx
FC-130 · Card 130 of 200 · Oxybutynin — Show answer
Brand: Ditropan XL, Oxytrol
Class: Antimuscarinic
Common use: Overactive bladder
Federal status: Rx and OTC (patch)
FC-131 · Card 131 of 200 · Pioglitazone — Show answer
Brand: Actos
Class: Thiazolidinedione (TZD)
Common use: Type 2 diabetes
Federal status: Rx
FC-132 · Card 132 of 200 · Ketoconazole — Show answer
Brand: Nizoral
Class: Azole antifungal (mostly topical and shampoo)
Common use: Fungal skin infections, dandruff
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-133 · Card 133 of 200 · Irbesartan — Show answer
Brand: Avapro
Class: ARB
Common use: High blood pressure, diabetic kidney disease
Federal status: Rx
FC-134 · Card 134 of 200 · Hydroxychloroquine — Show answer
Brand: Plaquenil
Class: Antimalarial / DMARD
Common use: Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, malaria
Federal status: Rx
FC-135 · Card 135 of 200 · Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim — Show answer
Brand: Bactrim, Bactrim DS
Class: Sulfonamide antibiotic combination
Common use: UTIs and other infections
Federal status: Rx
FC-136 · Card 136 of 200 · Benzonatate — Show answer
Brand: Tessalon Perles
Class: Antitussive
Common use: Cough
Federal status: Rx
FC-137 · Card 137 of 200 · Nitrofurantoin — Show answer
Brand: Macrobid, Macrodantin
Class: Urinary antibacterial
Common use: Bladder infections (uncomplicated cystitis)
Federal status: Rx
FC-138 · Card 138 of 200 · Isosorbide (mononitrate/dinitrate) — Show answer
Brand: Imdur, Isordil
Class: Nitrate
Common use: Angina prevention
Federal status: Rx
FC-139 · Card 139 of 200 · Methylprednisolone — Show answer
Brand: Medrol (Dosepak), Solu-Medrol
Class: Corticosteroid
Common use: Inflammation
Federal status: Rx
FC-140 · Card 140 of 200 · Triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide — Show answer
Brand: Dyazide, Maxzide
Class: Potassium-sparing + thiazide diuretic
Common use: High blood pressure, edema
Federal status: Rx
FC-141 · Card 141 of 200 · Levocetirizine — Show answer
Brand: Xyzal
Class: Second-generation antihistamine
Common use: Allergies
Federal status: OTC and Rx
FC-142 · Card 142 of 200 · Clindamycin — Show answer
Brand: Cleocin, Cleocin T
Class: Lincosamide antibiotic
Common use: Infections; acne (topical)
Federal status: Rx
FC-143 · Card 143 of 200 · Atomoxetine — Show answer
Brand: Strattera
Class: Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (non-stimulant)
Common use: ADHD
Federal status: Rx
FC-144 · Card 144 of 200 · Dexmethylphenidate — Show answer
Brand: Focalin, Focalin XR
Class: CNS stimulant
Common use: ADHD
Federal status: C-II
FC-145 · Card 145 of 200 · Methotrexate — Show answer
Brand: Trexall, Otrexup, Xatmep
Class: Antimetabolite / DMARD
Common use: Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis; some cancers
Federal status: Rx
FC-146 · Card 146 of 200 · Donepezil — Show answer
Brand: Aricept
Class: Cholinesterase inhibitor
Common use: Alzheimer's dementia
Federal status: Rx
FC-147 · Card 147 of 200 · Desvenlafaxine — Show answer
Brand: Pristiq
Class: SNRI antidepressant
Common use: Depression
Federal status: Rx
FC-148 · Card 148 of 200 · Ropinirole — Show answer
Brand: Requip
Class: Dopamine agonist
Common use: Parkinson's disease, restless legs
Federal status: Rx
FC-149 · Card 149 of 200 · Clobetasol — Show answer
Brand: Temovate, Clobex
Class: Super-high-potency topical corticosteroid
Common use: Psoriasis, eczema
Federal status: Rx
FC-150 · Card 150 of 200 · Fluticasone/vilanterol — Show answer
Brand: Breo Ellipta
Class: Inhaled corticosteroid + LABA
Common use: Asthma, COPD
Federal status: Rx
FC-151 · Card 151 of 200 · Albuterol/ipratropium — Show answer
Brand: Combivent Respimat, DuoNeb
Class: Short-acting beta agonist + anticholinergic
Common use: COPD
Federal status: Rx
FC-152 · Card 152 of 200 · Phentermine — Show answer
Brand: Adipex-P, Lomaira
Class: Sympathomimetic appetite suppressant
Common use: Short-term weight loss
Federal status: C-IV
FC-153 · Card 153 of 200 · Ofloxacin — Show answer
Brand: Ocuflox (eye); otic solution
Class: Fluoroquinolone
Common use: Eye and ear infections
Federal status: Rx
FC-154 · Card 154 of 200 · Mupirocin — Show answer
Brand: Bactroban
Class: Topical antibiotic
Common use: Impetigo and other skin infections
Federal status: Rx
FC-155 · Card 155 of 200 · Verapamil — Show answer
Brand: Calan SR, Verelan
Class: Calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine)
Common use: High blood pressure, angina, arrhythmias
Federal status: Rx
FC-156 · Card 156 of 200 · Olanzapine — Show answer
Brand: Zyprexa
Class: Atypical antipsychotic
Common use: Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder
Federal status: Rx
FC-157 · Card 157 of 200 · Metronidazole — Show answer
Brand: Flagyl, MetroGel
Class: Nitroimidazole antibiotic/antiprotozoal
Common use: Anaerobic infections, BV, trichomoniasis
Federal status: Rx
FC-158 · Card 158 of 200 · Prazosin — Show answer
Brand: Minipress
Class: Alpha-1 blocker
Common use: High blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-159 · Card 159 of 200 · Ciprofloxacin — Show answer
Brand: Cipro
Class: Fluoroquinolone antibiotic
Common use: Bacterial infections
Federal status: Rx
FC-160 · Card 160 of 200 · Sildenafil — Show answer
Brand: Viagra, Revatio
Class: PDE-5 inhibitor
Common use: ED; pulmonary arterial hypertension (Revatio)
Federal status: Rx
FC-161 · Card 161 of 200 · Ethinyl estradiol/levonorgestrel — Show answer
Brand: Levora, Aviane, Seasonique
Class: Combined oral contraceptive
Common use: Contraception
Federal status: Rx
FC-162 · Card 162 of 200 · Evolocumab — Show answer
Brand: Repatha
Class: PCSK9 inhibitor (monoclonal antibody)
Common use: High LDL cholesterol
Federal status: Rx
FC-163 · Card 163 of 200 · Mesalamine — Show answer
Brand: Lialda, Apriso, Pentasa, Canasa
Class: Aminosalicylate
Common use: Ulcerative colitis
Federal status: Rx
FC-164 · Card 164 of 200 · Memantine — Show answer
Brand: Namenda
Class: NMDA receptor antagonist
Common use: Alzheimer's dementia
Federal status: Rx
FC-165 · Card 165 of 200 · Ethinyl estradiol/etonogestrel — Show answer
Brand: NuvaRing, EluRyng
Class: Contraceptive vaginal ring
Common use: Contraception
Federal status: Rx
FC-166 · Card 166 of 200 · Diazepam — Show answer
Brand: Valium
Class: Benzodiazepine
Common use: Anxiety, muscle spasm, seizures, alcohol withdrawal
Federal status: C-IV
FC-167 · Card 167 of 200 · Lithium — Show answer
Brand: Lithobid
Class: Mood stabilizer
Common use: Bipolar disorder
Federal status: Rx
FC-168 · Card 168 of 200 · Nortriptyline — Show answer
Brand: Pamelor
Class: Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA)
Common use: Depression
Federal status: Rx
FC-169 · Card 169 of 200 · Timolol — Show answer
Brand: Timoptic
Class: Beta-blocker (eye drop)
Common use: Glaucoma
Federal status: Rx
FC-170 · Card 170 of 200 · Cefdinir — Show answer
Brand: Omnicef
Class: Third-generation cephalosporin
Common use: Bacterial infections
Federal status: Rx
FC-171 · Card 171 of 200 · Magnesium salts — Show answer
Brand: Mag-Ox, Slow-Mag
Class: Mineral supplement
Common use: Low magnesium
Federal status: OTC and Rx
FC-172 · Card 172 of 200 · Meclizine — Show answer
Brand: Antivert, Bonine
Class: Antihistamine (antiemetic)
Common use: Vertigo, motion sickness
Federal status: Rx and OTC
FC-173 · Card 173 of 200 · Cyclosporine — Show answer
Brand: Restasis, Cequa (eye); Neoral, Sandimmune (oral)
Class: Calcineurin inhibitor (immunosuppressant)
Common use: Dry eye (drops); transplant rejection prevention (oral)
Federal status: Rx
FC-174 · Card 174 of 200 · Fluconazole — Show answer
Brand: Diflucan
Class: Azole antifungal
Common use: Yeast infections
Federal status: Rx
FC-175 · Card 175 of 200 · Rimegepant — Show answer
Brand: Nurtec ODT
Class: CGRP receptor antagonist ("gepant")
Common use: Migraine treatment and prevention
Federal status: Rx
FC-176 · Card 176 of 200 · Tretinoin — Show answer
Brand: Retin-A
Class: Topical retinoid
Common use: Acne
Federal status: Rx
FC-177 · Card 177 of 200 · Lovastatin — Show answer
Brand: Mevacor, Altoprev
Class: Statin
Common use: High cholesterol
Federal status: Rx
FC-178 · Card 178 of 200 · Drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol — Show answer
Brand: Yaz, Yasmin
Class: Combined oral contraceptive
Common use: Contraception
Federal status: Rx
FC-179 · Card 179 of 200 · Tiotropium — Show answer
Brand: Spiriva HandiHaler, Spiriva Respimat
Class: Long-acting anticholinergic (LAMA)
Common use: COPD, asthma maintenance
Federal status: Rx
FC-180 · Card 180 of 200 · Docusate — Show answer
Brand: Colace
Class: Stool softener
Common use: Constipation
Federal status: OTC
FC-181 · Card 181 of 200 · Temazepam — Show answer
Brand: Restoril
Class: Benzodiazepine
Common use: Insomnia
Federal status: C-IV
FC-182 · Card 182 of 200 · Benazepril — Show answer
Brand: Lotensin
Class: ACE inhibitor
Common use: High blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-183 · Card 183 of 200 · Brimonidine — Show answer
Brand: Alphagan P
Class: Alpha-2 agonist (eye drop)
Common use: Glaucoma
Federal status: Rx
FC-184 · Card 184 of 200 · Sacubitril/valsartan — Show answer
Brand: Entresto
Class: ARNI (neprilysin inhibitor + ARB)
Common use: Heart failure
Federal status: Rx
FC-185 · Card 185 of 200 · Valproate (divalproex, valproic acid) — Show answer
Brand: Depakote, Depakote ER, Depakene
Class: Anticonvulsant / mood stabilizer
Common use: Epilepsy, bipolar mania, migraine prevention
Federal status: Rx
FC-186 · Card 186 of 200 · Nebivolol — Show answer
Brand: Bystolic
Class: Beta-blocker (beta-1 selective)
Common use: High blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-187 · Card 187 of 200 · Acyclovir — Show answer
Brand: Zovirax
Class: Antiviral
Common use: Herpes, shingles, chickenpox
Federal status: Rx
FC-188 · Card 188 of 200 · Morphine — Show answer
Brand: MS Contin
Class: Opioid analgesic
Common use: Severe pain
Federal status: C-II
FC-189 · Card 189 of 200 · Doxazosin — Show answer
Brand: Cardura
Class: Alpha-1 blocker
Common use: BPH, high blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-190 · Card 190 of 200 · Amlodipine/benazepril — Show answer
Brand: Lotrel
Class: Calcium channel blocker + ACE inhibitor
Common use: High blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-191 · Card 191 of 200 · Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir — Show answer
Brand: Paxlovid
Class: Antiviral (protease inhibitor + booster)
Common use: COVID-19
Federal status: Rx
FC-192 · Card 192 of 200 · Emtricitabine/tenofovir — Show answer
Brand: Truvada (TDF), Descovy (TAF)
Class: NRTI combination (antiretroviral)
Common use: HIV treatment; HIV PrEP (product-specific)
Federal status: Rx
FC-193 · Card 193 of 200 · Budesonide — Show answer
Brand: Pulmicort, Entocort EC, Uceris, Rhinocort
Class: Corticosteroid
Common use: Asthma; Crohn's and ulcerative colitis; allergic rhinitis (nasal)
Federal status: Rx and OTC (nasal)
FC-194 · Card 194 of 200 · Tacrolimus — Show answer
Brand: Prograf, Envarsus XR; Protopic (ointment)
Class: Calcineurin inhibitor (immunosuppressant)
Common use: Transplant rejection prevention; eczema (ointment)
Federal status: Rx
FC-195 · Card 195 of 200 · Dupilumab — Show answer
Brand: Dupixent
Class: IL-4/IL-13 blocker (monoclonal antibody)
Common use: Atopic dermatitis, asthma
Federal status: Rx
FC-196 · Card 196 of 200 · Enalapril — Show answer
Brand: Vasotec, Epaned (oral solution)
Class: ACE inhibitor
Common use: High blood pressure, heart failure
Federal status: Rx
FC-197 · Card 197 of 200 · Anastrozole — Show answer
Brand: Arimidex
Class: Aromatase inhibitor
Common use: Breast cancer (after menopause)
Federal status: Rx
FC-198 · Card 198 of 200 · Melatonin — Show answer
Brand: (dietary supplement)
Class: Hormone supplement (not an FDA-approved drug)
Common use: Sleep
Federal status: OTC supplement
FC-199 · Card 199 of 200 · Torsemide — Show answer
Brand: Soaanz, Demadex
Class: Loop diuretic
Common use: Edema, high blood pressure
Federal status: Rx
FC-200 · Card 200 of 200 · Polyethylene glycol 3350 — Show answer
Brand: MiraLAX
Class: Osmotic laxative
Common use: Constipation
Federal status: OTC
What to learn for each drug
PTCB's current outline, effective January 6, 2026, puts Medications at 35% of the exam. With 80 scored questions, that works out to about 28 scored questions' worth of medication content—our arithmetic, not a count PTCB publishes for any exam form. (PTCE Content Outline; PTCB CPhT page)
The outline names eight medication knowledge areas. Here's where each one shows up on this page:
| Outline area | What it covers | Where to practice it here |
|---|---|---|
| 1.1 | Generic names, brand names, classifications | Name and class columns; stem traps |
| 1.2 | Therapeutic duplications | Quiz Q23; learn brand ↔ generic so you spot the same drug twice |
| 1.3 | Common or life-threatening interactions and contraindications | Quiz Q21–Q22 |
| 1.4 | Strengths, dosage forms, routes, administration, duration | "Four details" section below |
| 1.5 | Common or severe side effects, adverse effects, allergies | Quiz Q18–Q20 |
| 1.6 | Indications | Common use column; Quiz Q14–Q17 |
| 1.7 | Drug stability | Storage table; Quiz Q26 |
| 1.8 | Storage (temperature, light, restricted access) | Storage table; Quiz Q24–Q25 |
Two areas from other domains ride along with drug names: DEA schedules (2.2) and high-alert and look-alike/sound-alike drugs, including Tall Man lettering (3.1 and 3.2).
Don't skip strengths and dosage forms because a list only shows names. Area 1.4 names them directly. You don't need every patient dose, but you do need to know what a product is—which is the next section.
Four details a brand–generic pair can miss
Salt and release form. Toprol-XL is metoprolol succinate in an extended-release tablet. Lopressor is metoprolol tartrate. Same parent drug, different products, and "metoprolol 50 mg" alone doesn't tell you which one was written. (Toprol-XL label; Lopressor label)
Delayed release is not extended release. Depakote is divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets; Depakote ER is divalproex sodium extended-release. Learn the ingredient name exactly—it's divalproex sodium, not "valproate sodium," as some study lists print. (Depakote label; Depakote ER label)
Strength math doesn't always transfer. The Augmentin label says two 250 mg/125 mg tablets are not a substitute for one 500 mg/125 mg tablet, and the 250 mg/125 mg tablet isn't interchangeable with the 250 mg/62.5 mg chewable. The amoxicillin adds up; the clavulanate doesn't. (Augmentin label, §2.6)
One ingredient, multiple product forms. Ozempic injection is refrigerated before first use, while Ozempic tablets are stored at room temperature in the original bottle and should not be refrigerated. Wegovy also now comes in injection and tablet forms. Knowing the ingredient alone isn't enough—you need the exact product and form. (Novo Nordisk Ozempic FAQ)
Learn the endings—and the traps
A drug's ending often tells you its class. Often—not always. The right-hand column is where test writers like to live.
| Ending | Class | Examples on this list | Trap |
|---|---|---|---|
| -statin | Statin | atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin | Ezetimibe lowers cholesterol but isn't a statin |
| -pril | ACE inhibitor | lisinopril, benazepril, enalapril | Sacubitril/valsartan (Entresto) is an ARNI |
| -sartan | ARB | losartan, valsartan, olmesartan, irbesartan | — |
| -olol / -ilol | Beta-blocker | metoprolol, atenolol, carvedilol, nebivolol | Timolol here is an eye drop for glaucoma |
| -dipine | Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine) | amlodipine, nifedipine | Diltiazem and verapamil are calcium channel blockers without "-dipine" |
| -prazole | PPI | omeprazole, pantoprazole, esomeprazole | Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic |
| -tidine | H2 blocker | famotidine | Tizanidine is a muscle relaxant |
| -azole | Azole antifungal | fluconazole, ketoconazole | Metronidazole is an antibiotic |
| -gliflozin | SGLT2 inhibitor | empagliflozin, dapagliflozin | — |
| -gliptin | DPP-4 inhibitor | sitagliptin | Sitagliptin and sumatriptan are a Tall Man pair |
| -glutide / -tide | GLP-1 or GIP/GLP-1 agonist | semaglutide, dulaglutide, tirzepatide | — |
| gli-/gly- … -ide | Sulfonylurea | glipizide, glimepiride | High-alert category |
| -xaban | Factor Xa inhibitor | apixaban, rivaroxaban | — |
| -cillin | Penicillin | amoxicillin | Cephalexin and cefdinir are cephalosporins (ceph-/cef-) |
| -floxacin | Fluoroquinolone | ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin | Levetiracetam (seizures) and levofloxacin are a Tall Man pair |
| -mycin | Macrolide or lincosamide | azithromycin, clindamycin | — |
| -vir | Antiviral | acyclovir, valacyclovir, nirmatrelvir | — |
| -pam / -lam | Benzodiazepine | alprazolam, clonazepam, lorazepam, diazepam, temazepam | Zolpidem and buspirone are not benzodiazepines |
| -oxetine | Varies | fluoxetine, paroxetine (SSRIs); duloxetine (SNRI); atomoxetine (ADHD) | The ending doesn't decide the class—learn these by name |
| -triptan | Triptan | sumatriptan | — |
| -setron | 5-HT3 antiemetic | ondansetron | — |
| -osin | Alpha-1 blocker | tamsulosin, doxazosin, prazosin | — |
| -sone / -olone | Corticosteroid | prednisone, prednisolone, triamcinolone, methylprednisolone | Clobetasol and budesonide are steroids too |
| -mab | Monoclonal antibody | adalimumab, evolocumab, dupilumab | Usually refrigerated injections |
| -gepant | CGRP receptor antagonist | rimegepant | — |
The 18 controlled substances on this list
| Federal schedule | Drugs on this list (rank) |
|---|---|
| C-II | Dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (mixed salts) (Adderall) #15; Hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Norco) #31; Methylphenidate (Ritalin) #33; Oxycodone (OxyContin) #51; Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) #72; Oxycodone/acetaminophen (Percocet) #90; Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin) #144; Morphine (MS Contin) #188 |
| C-III | Testosterone (AndroGel) #93 |
| C-IV | Tramadol (Ultram) #41; Zolpidem (Ambien) #55; Alprazolam (Xanax) #57; Clonazepam (Klonopin) #61; Lorazepam (Ativan) #77; Phentermine (Adipex-P) #152; Diazepam (Valium) #166; Temazepam (Restoril) #181 |
| C-V | Pregabalin (Lyrica) #59 |
Schedules are federal, from DEA's controlled substances list (August 27, 2026). Dexmethylphenidate is an isomer of methylphenidate, which DEA lists in Schedule II. Hydrocodone/acetaminophen products are Schedule II, not III.
Gabapentin (#11) isn't on the federal list, but states can control drugs on their own, so check the rule where you work. Its cousin pregabalin is federally Schedule V. For state technician rules, start with our pharmacy technician requirements by state.
Drugs on this list that need the refrigerator
Storage is product-specific. The same ingredient can have different rules in a different brand or form, so this table names the product that was checked.
| Drug (rank) | Product checked | What the source says | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide (#14) | Ozempic injection and tablets | Injection: refrigerate at 2–8 °C before first use; after first use, follow the labeled in-use limit and temperature instructions. Tablets: store at room temperature in the original bottle; do not refrigerate. | Novo Nordisk Ozempic FAQ |
| Insulins: glargine (#27), lispro (#67), aspart (#79), degludec (#122) | Vials and pens | FDA notes that all three U.S. insulin manufacturers' labels recommend refrigerator storage at about 36–46 °F; unopened insulin kept that way stays potent to the expiration date. Room-temperature limits vary by product—check the label. | FDA insulin storage page |
| Tirzepatide (#32) | Mounjaro single-dose pen | Refrigerate at 2–8 °C in the carton; each pen may be kept unrefrigerated at or below 30 °C for up to 21 days; don't freeze. | Mounjaro label |
| Latanoprost (#70) | Xalatan | Refrigerate unopened bottles at 2–8 °C and protect from light; once opened, up to 6 weeks at room temperature up to 25 °C. | Current Xalatan label on DailyMed |
| Amoxicillin/clavulanate (#74) | Augmentin oral suspension | Dry powder at or below 25 °C. After mixing, refrigerate and discard unused suspension after 10 days. | Augmentin label |
| Dulaglutide (#75) | Trulicity pen | Refrigerate at 2–8 °C; a pen may be kept at room temperature up to 30 °C for up to 14 days. Do not freeze and protect from light. | Trulicity label on DailyMed |
| Adalimumab (#125) | Humira pen and syringe | Refrigerate at 2–8 °C in the original carton; if needed, store at room temperature up to 25 °C for up to 14 days and discard if not used within that period. | Humira label on DailyMed |
| Evolocumab (#162) | Repatha | Refrigerate at 2–8 °C in the original carton; if needed, keep at room temperature 20–25 °C for up to 30 days. Do not freeze or shake. | Repatha label on DailyMed |
| Etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol (#165) | NuvaRing | Refrigerate at 2–8 °C before dispensing. After dispensing, up to 4 months at 25 °C. The dispenser writes an expiration date no later than 4 months from dispensing or the product's expiration, whichever is first. | NuvaRing label |
| Dupilumab (#195) | Dupixent pen and syringe | Refrigerate at 2–8 °C in the carton; if necessary, up to 14 days at room temperature up to 25 °C, then discard. | Dupixent storage page |
NuvaRing is the one people forget: it's cold on the pharmacy shelf and room temperature at home.
Look-alike, sound-alike pairs where both drugs are on this list
These are confusable name sets from the FDA and ISMP Tall Man lists in which every drug is in this top 200. The capital letters show where the names differ. Error-prevention strategies, Tall Man lettering included, are named in PTCE area 3.2.
| Confusable set | Ranks | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| buPROPion / busPIRone | 17, 39 | Antidepressant vs. anxiety drug |
| traMADol / traZODone | 41, 20 | Opioid (C-IV) vs. antidepressant |
| predniSONE / prednisoLONE | 35, 114 | Two different steroids |
| hydrALAZINE / hydroCHLOROthiazide / hydrOXYzine | 124, 18, 43 | Vasodilator vs. diuretic vs. antihistamine |
| ALPRAZolam / clonazePAM / LORazepam | 57, 61, 77 | Three benzodiazepines, three different drugs |
| clonazePAM / cloNIDine | 61, 83 | Benzodiazepine vs. blood pressure/ADHD drug |
| diazePAM / dilTIAZem | 166, 109 | Benzodiazepine vs. calcium channel blocker |
| DULoxetine / FLUoxetine / PARoxetine | 34, 19, 99 | SNRI vs. two SSRIs |
| CeleBREX / CeleXA | 80, 58 | NSAID vs. SSRI |
| HYDROcodone / oxyCODONE | 31, 51 | Two different Schedule II opioids |
| oxyBUTYnin / oxyCODONE | 130, 51 | Bladder drug vs. opioid |
| metFORMIN / metroNIDAZOLE | 3, 157 | Diabetes drug vs. antibiotic |
| OLANZapine / QUEtiapine | 156, 82 | Two antipsychotics |
| SITagliptin / SUMAtriptan | 127, 113 | Diabetes drug vs. migraine drug |
| PriLOSEC / PROzac | 10, 19 | PPI vs. SSRI (brand names) |
| ZyrTEC / ZyPREXA | 47, 156 | Antihistamine vs. antipsychotic (brand names) |
Other pairs with one drug on this list: amLODIPine/aMILoride, ARIPiprazole/RABEprazole, glipiZIDE/glyBURIDE, HumaLOG/HumuLIN, NovoLOG/NovoLIN, lamoTRIgine/lamiVUDine, LaMICtal/LamISIL, levETIRAcetam/levoFLOXacin, NexIUM/NexAVAR, NIFEdipine/niCARdipine, rOPINIRole/risperiDONE, tiZANidine/tiaGABine, valACYclovir/valGANciclovir, methylPREDNISolone/medroxyPROGESTERone, cycloSPORINE/cycloSERINE, SandIMMUNE/SandoSTATIN, and ISOtretinoin/tretinoin.
High-alert drugs on this list
ISMP defines high-alert medications as drugs with a heightened risk of significant harm when used in error. 19 drugs on this list fall into categories on its community/ambulatory high-alert list. PTCE area 3.1 names high-alert medications directly.
| ISMP category | Drugs on this list (rank) |
|---|---|
| Antithrombotics (anticoagulants) | Apixaban #25; Rivaroxaban #96; Warfarin #102 |
| Insulins, all formulations | Insulin glargine #27; Insulin lispro #67; Insulin aspart #79; Insulin degludec #122 |
| Opioids, all routes, including combination products | Hydrocodone/acetaminophen #31; Tramadol #41; Oxycodone #51; Oxycodone/acetaminophen #90; Morphine #188 |
| Oral sulfonylureas | Glipizide #54; Glimepiride #128 |
| Immunosuppressants (oral and injectable) | Cyclosporine #173 (oral forms—the category doesn't cover the eye drops); Tacrolimus #194 |
| Named individually | Lamotrigine #56; Methotrexate #145 (oral, non-cancer use); Valproate #185 (ISMP names valproic acid) |
ISMP's chemotherapy category excludes hormonal therapy, so anastrozole (#197) isn't on it.
Practice quiz: 30 questions
These are original, unofficial questions written for this page—not PTCE questions. Your score shows how you did on these 30 items and nothing more; it isn't a PTCE score or a prediction.
Interactive quiz
Question 1 of 30 · 1.1 Generic and brand names
Which brand name belongs to atorvastatin?
Question 1
1.1 Generic and brand names · Q01
Which brand name belongs to atorvastatin?
- A. Crestor
- B. Lipitor
- C. Zocor
- D. Pravachol
Show answer
Answer: B. Lipitor
Lipitor is atorvastatin. The other three are also statins, which is why they make good traps: Crestor is rosuvastatin, Zocor is simvastatin, and Pravachol is pravastatin. Learn statins as a family, then attach one brand to each.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 2
1.1 Generic and brand names · Q02
What is the generic name for Eliquis?
- A. Rivaroxaban
- B. Warfarin
- C. Apixaban
- D. Clopidogrel
Show answer
Answer: C. Apixaban
Eliquis is apixaban, a factor Xa inhibitor. Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) is in the same class and shares the -xaban ending. Warfarin is a vitamin K antagonist, and clopidogrel (Plavix) is an antiplatelet, not an anticoagulant.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 3
1.1 Generic and brand names · Q03
What is the generic name for Jardiance?
- A. Dapagliflozin
- B. Empagliflozin
- C. Sitagliptin
- D. Pioglitazone
Show answer
Answer: B. Empagliflozin
Jardiance is empagliflozin. Dapagliflozin (Farxiga) is the other SGLT2 inhibitor on this list; both end in -gliflozin, so the brand is what separates them. Sitagliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor and pioglitazone is a thiazolidinedione.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 4
1.1 Generic and brand names · Q04
Mounjaro contains which active ingredient?
- A. Semaglutide
- B. Dulaglutide
- C. Tirzepatide
- D. Insulin glargine
Show answer
Answer: C. Tirzepatide
Mounjaro is tirzepatide, a GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. Semaglutide is Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus; dulaglutide is Trulicity. Insulin glargine is a long-acting insulin, not an incretin drug.
Source: www.accessdata.fda.gov
Question 5
1.4 Dosage forms · Q05
A prescription is written for Toprol-XL 50 mg. Which product is that?
- A. Metoprolol tartrate immediate-release tablets
- B. Metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets
- C. Atenolol tablets
- D. Carvedilol tablets
Show answer
Answer: B. Metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets
Toprol-XL is metoprolol succinate in an extended-release tablet. Lopressor is metoprolol tartrate. Both are metoprolol, but the salt and the release form are different products, so "metoprolol 50 mg" alone does not tell you which one was meant.
Source: www.toprol-xl.com · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 6
1.1 Generic and brand names · Q06
What is the generic name for Zyrtec?
- A. Loratadine
- B. Levocetirizine
- C. Cetirizine
- D. Hydroxyzine
Show answer
Answer: C. Cetirizine
Zyrtec is cetirizine. Levocetirizine (Xyzal) is a close relative with a longer name, which makes it the most tempting wrong answer. Loratadine is Claritin, and hydroxyzine is an older, more sedating antihistamine.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 7
1.1 Generic and brand names · Q07
Hyzaar contains which two ingredients?
- A. Lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide
- B. Losartan and hydrochlorothiazide
- C. Valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide
- D. Triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide
Show answer
Answer: B. Losartan and hydrochlorothiazide
Hyzaar is losartan plus hydrochlorothiazide. The "H" in Hyzaar and Cozaar's -zaar ending point to losartan with an HCTZ partner. Lisinopril/HCTZ is Zestoretic, valsartan/HCTZ is Diovan HCT, and triamterene/HCTZ is Dyazide or Maxzide.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 8
1.1 Generic and brand names · Q08
Percocet contains which two ingredients?
- A. Hydrocodone and acetaminophen
- B. Oxycodone and acetaminophen
- C. Oxycodone and aspirin
- D. Tramadol and acetaminophen
Show answer
Answer: B. Oxycodone and acetaminophen
Percocet is oxycodone with acetaminophen, and it is Schedule II because oxycodone is Schedule II. Hydrocodone/acetaminophen is Norco or Lortab. Keep the opioid and the non-opioid partner together when you learn combination products.
Question 9
1.1 Classifications · Q09
Olmesartan belongs to which drug class?
- A. ACE inhibitor
- B. Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB)
- C. Calcium channel blocker
- D. Beta-blocker
Show answer
Answer: B. Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB)
The -sartan ending marks an ARB: losartan, valsartan, olmesartan, irbesartan. ACE inhibitors end in -pril, dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers usually end in -dipine, and most beta-blockers end in -olol.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 10
1.1 Classifications · Q10
Aripiprazole ends like a PPI. What class is it actually in?
- A. Proton pump inhibitor
- B. Atypical antipsychotic
- C. Azole antifungal
- D. H2 blocker
Show answer
Answer: B. Atypical antipsychotic
Aripiprazole (Abilify) is an atypical antipsychotic. It is a classic stem trap: it ends in -prazole, like omeprazole and pantoprazole, but it treats schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. ISMP even lists ARIPiprazole and RABEprazole as a look-alike pair.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · www.ismp.org
Question 11
1.1 Classifications · Q11
Tizanidine ends like an H2 blocker. What is it used for?
- A. Reducing stomach acid
- B. Relieving spasticity (muscle relaxant)
- C. Treating viral infections
- D. Relieving allergy symptoms
Show answer
Answer: B. Relieving spasticity (muscle relaxant)
Tizanidine (Zanaflex) is a central alpha-2 agonist used as a muscle relaxant for spasticity. The -tidine ending belongs to H2 blockers like famotidine, but tizanidine is not one. When an ending seems to fit but the name feels off, check the class before trusting the stem.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 12
1.1 Classifications · Q12
Which of these is an SSRI?
- A. Duloxetine
- B. Venlafaxine
- C. Paroxetine
- D. Bupropion
Show answer
Answer: C. Paroxetine
Paroxetine (Paxil) is an SSRI. Duloxetine shares the -oxetine ending but is an SNRI, venlafaxine is an SNRI, and bupropion is an NDRI. This is one place where the ending does not decide the class, so learn these by name.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 13
1.1 Classifications · Q13
Dapagliflozin belongs to which class?
- A. DPP-4 inhibitor
- B. Sulfonylurea
- C. SGLT2 inhibitor
- D. GLP-1 receptor agonist
Show answer
Answer: C. SGLT2 inhibitor
The -gliflozin ending marks an SGLT2 inhibitor (dapagliflozin, empagliflozin). DPP-4 inhibitors end in -gliptin, sulfonylureas include glipizide and glimepiride, and GLP-1 agonists include semaglutide and dulaglutide.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 14
1.6 Indications · Q14
Flomax (tamsulosin) is labeled for which use?
- A. High blood pressure
- B. Signs and symptoms of an enlarged prostate (BPH)
- C. Overactive bladder
- D. Erectile dysfunction
Show answer
Answer: B. Signs and symptoms of an enlarged prostate (BPH)
The Flomax label lists BPH signs and symptoms and says the capsules are not indicated for high blood pressure. That is a useful contrast with doxazosin (Cardura), another alpha-1 blocker on this list that is used for both BPH and blood pressure.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 15
1.6 Indications · Q15
Donepezil (Aricept) is used for which condition?
- A. Parkinson's disease
- B. Dementia of the Alzheimer's type
- C. Epilepsy
- D. Schizophrenia
Show answer
Answer: B. Dementia of the Alzheimer's type
Donepezil is a cholinesterase inhibitor for Alzheimer's-type dementia. Memantine (Namenda) is the other dementia drug on this list. Parkinson's drugs here include ropinirole, and epilepsy drugs include levetiracetam and lamotrigine.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 16
1.6 Indications · Q16
Macrobid (nitrofurantoin) is labeled for which kind of infection?
- A. Pneumonia
- B. Acute uncomplicated bladder infection (cystitis)
- C. Kidney infection (pyelonephritis)
- D. Skin infection
Show answer
Answer: B. Acute uncomplicated bladder infection (cystitis)
Macrobid's label covers acute uncomplicated cystitis caused by susceptible bacteria and specifically does not cover pyelonephritis. So "UTI" is close, but the precise answer is the bladder, not the kidney.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 17
1.6 Indications · Q17
Levothyroxine is used to treat which condition?
- A. Hyperthyroidism
- B. Hypothyroidism
- C. Type 2 diabetes
- D. High cholesterol
Show answer
Answer: B. Hypothyroidism
Levothyroxine replaces thyroid hormone, so it treats an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Treating an overactive thyroid would mean lowering hormone levels, which is the opposite job. Armour Thyroid on this list is also a thyroid replacement.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 18
1.5 Side effects · Q18
Which side effect is well known with ACE inhibitors such as lisinopril?
- A. Weight gain
- B. Persistent dry cough
- C. Orange-colored urine
- D. Excess hair growth
Show answer
Answer: B. Persistent dry cough
The lisinopril label describes a persistent nonproductive cough reported with all ACE inhibitors, usually resolving after the drug is stopped. That is one reason a patient may be switched to an ARB such as losartan.
Source: www.accessdata.fda.gov
Question 19
1.5 Allergies · Q19
Prometrium capsules are contraindicated in patients with which allergy?
- A. Penicillin allergy
- B. Peanut allergy
- C. Sulfa allergy
- D. Latex allergy
Show answer
Answer: B. Peanut allergy
Prometrium capsules contain peanut oil, and the label says they are contraindicated in patients allergic to peanuts. An inactive ingredient can matter as much as the active drug when you check allergies.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 20
1.5 Adverse effects · Q20
Singulair (montelukast) carries a boxed warning about what?
- A. Tendon rupture
- B. Serious neuropsychiatric events
- C. Thyroid C-cell tumors
- D. Liver failure
Show answer
Answer: B. Serious neuropsychiatric events
FDA required a boxed warning in 2020 for serious neuropsychiatric events with montelukast, which can include suicidal thoughts or actions. Thyroid C-cell tumor warnings belong to GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic, not montelukast.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · www.fda.gov
Question 21
1.3 Interactions and contraindications · Q21
A patient uses isosorbide mononitrate and brings a new prescription for sildenafil. What does the sildenafil label say about this combination?
- A. It is contraindicated
- B. It is fine if doses are 2 hours apart
- C. It is fine if taken with food
- D. It only matters if the patient drinks alcohol
Show answer
Answer: A. It is contraindicated
Sildenafil labels list use with organic nitrates in any form, regularly or intermittently, as a contraindication because of the risk of a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Isosorbide mononitrate is a nitrate. A technician flags this for the pharmacist.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 22
1.3 Interactions and contraindications · Q22
What does the Flagyl (metronidazole) label say about alcohol?
- A. No restriction
- B. Avoid alcohol during therapy and for at least three days after
- C. Avoid alcohol only with the first dose
- D. Alcohol is fine if taken with food
Show answer
Answer: B. Avoid alcohol during therapy and for at least three days after
The label warns of a disulfiram-like reaction (cramps, nausea, vomiting, headache, flushing) and says to stop alcohol, and products containing propylene glycol, during therapy and for at least three days afterward.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 23
1.2 Therapeutic duplications · Q23
A patient's profile shows Zestril 10 mg from one prescriber and lisinopril 20 mg from another. What is the problem?
- A. Drug-food interaction
- B. Therapeutic duplication
- C. Drug allergy
- D. Wrong route of administration
Show answer
Answer: B. Therapeutic duplication
Zestril is lisinopril, so this is the same drug twice. Therapeutic duplication is its own PTCE knowledge area (1.2), and it is exactly why brand-to-generic recall matters on the job. The pharmacist needs to see it.
Source: ptcb.org · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 24
1.8 Storage · Q24
How should unopened bottles of Xalatan (latanoprost) be stored?
- A. In the freezer
- B. In the refrigerator, 2 °C to 8 °C
- C. At room temperature at all times
- D. Anywhere, as long as it stays unopened
Show answer
Answer: B. In the refrigerator, 2 °C to 8 °C
The Xalatan label says to store unopened bottles in the refrigerator at 2 °C to 8 °C and protect them from light. Once opened, a bottle may be kept at room temperature up to 25 °C for 6 weeks. Storage rules are product-specific, so check the label of the latanoprost product you actually have.
Source: www.accessdata.fda.gov
Question 25
1.8 Storage · Q25
According to its label, how is NuvaRing stored before it is dispensed?
- A. Frozen
- B. Refrigerated, 2 °C to 8 °C
- C. At room temperature
- D. No storage requirement
Show answer
Answer: B. Refrigerated, 2 °C to 8 °C
NuvaRing is refrigerated before dispensing. After dispensing it can be kept up to 4 months at 25 °C, and the label tells the dispenser to put an expiration date on the label that is no later than 4 months from dispensing or the product expiration date, whichever comes first.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 26
1.7 Drug stability · Q26
Once Augmentin oral suspension has been mixed, how is it stored?
- A. Room temperature; discard after 14 days
- B. Refrigerated; discard unused suspension after 10 days
- C. Frozen until used
- D. Refrigerated; discard after 30 days
Show answer
Answer: B. Refrigerated; discard unused suspension after 10 days
The Augmentin label says to store the reconstituted suspension in the refrigerator and discard unused suspension after 10 days. The dry powder is stored at or below 25 °C before mixing.
Source: dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
Question 27
2.2 DEA schedules · Q27
Which of these is federally Schedule IV?
- A. Oxycodone
- B. Testosterone
- C. Tramadol
- D. Pregabalin
Show answer
Answer: C. Tramadol
DEA's list places tramadol in Schedule IV. Oxycodone is Schedule II, testosterone is Schedule III (as an anabolic steroid), and pregabalin is Schedule V.
Source: www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov
Question 28
2.2 DEA schedules · Q28
Which statement about gabapentin is accurate?
- A. It is federally Schedule II
- B. It is federally Schedule IV
- C. It is not on the federal schedules, but a state can add its own controls
- D. It is federally Schedule V
Show answer
Answer: C. It is not on the federal schedules, but a state can add its own controls
Gabapentin does not appear on DEA's controlled-substance list, so it is not federally scheduled. States can control substances on their own, so the rule where you work may be stricter. Pregabalin, a related drug, is federally Schedule V.
Source: www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov
Question 29
3.2 Tall Man lettering · Q29
Which pair shows the FDA-recommended Tall Man lettering for two drugs on this list?
- A. buPROPion and busPIRone
- B. BUPROpion and BUSpirone
- C. bupropION and buspirONE
- D. Bupropion and Buspirone
Show answer
Answer: A. buPROPion and busPIRone
FDA's Tall Man list writes the pair as buPROPion and busPIRone, capitalizing the part of each name that differs. Bupropion (an antidepressant) and buspirone (for anxiety) are both in this top 200.
Source: www.ismp.org
Question 30
3.1 High-alert medications · Q30
Which drug on this list falls in a category on ISMP's community/ambulatory high-alert list?
- A. Glipizide
- B. Amlodipine
- C. Loratadine
- D. Famotidine
Show answer
Answer: A. Glipizide
ISMP's community and ambulatory high-alert list includes oral sulfonylurea hypoglycemics and names glipizide as an example. Errors with these drugs can cause dangerous low blood sugar. The other three are not on that list.
Source: home.ecri.org
A four-week plan for 200 drugs
This is our editorial suggestion, not a PTCB requirement. It assumes about 30–45 minutes a day. If you have less time, stretch it to six or eight weeks; the order still works.
| Week | Study groups | New drugs | Retrieval and review |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cholesterol; Blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI; Beta-blockers; Calcium channel blockers; Diuretics; Blood thinners and other heart drugs; Diabetes | 57 | Daily: cover the brand column and recall it, then reverse. Day 7: self-test all of week 1 in shuffled order. |
| 2 | Thyroid, hormones, contraceptives; Antidepressants; Anxiety and sleep; ADHD; Antipsychotics and mood stabilizers; Seizures, nerve pain, migraine | 51 | Daily: new groups first, then 10 minutes on week 1 misses. Day 7: self-test weeks 1–2. |
| 3 | Pain: NSAIDs, opioids, others; Muscle relaxants; Breathing and allergy; Stomach and bowel; Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals | 59 | Daily: new groups, then your error log. Day 7: self-test weeks 1–3; take quiz questions Q01–Q17. |
| 4 | Steroids, immune, and skin; Prostate, bladder, and ED; Bone, gout, dementia, Parkinson's, eye drops, weight; Vitamins and minerals | 33 | Days 1–3: new groups. Days 4–7: all 200 by rank band (1–50, 51–100, 101–150, 151–200), then Q18–Q30 and a full retake of all 30. |
Each study session, in three passes:
- Identify. Take about ten new drugs. Cover the brand column and recall each brand, then cover the generic and go the other way.
- Connect. For the same drugs, say the class and one use. Add the release form or salt if the row has one (XL, ER, succinate).
- Distinguish. Read the safety notes and say, in your own words, why each one matters. Write anything you missed in your error log.
Start the next session with yesterday's misses before adding anything new.
Error log (copy this into a notebook):
| Rank | What I missed | Correct answer, in my words | Checked against | Retest on |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand / generic / class / use / schedule / storage |
Why top 200 lists don't match
"Top 200" can mean most-prescribed, top-selling, or whatever a textbook chose. This list is most-prescribed, and it comes from a federal household survey (AHRQ's Medical Expenditure Panel Survey) as cleaned up by ClinCalc DrugStats. Three things to know about it:
- It runs about two years behind. The 2024 prescription data was released in August 2026. The ranks are survey estimates, not a count of every prescription filled.
- The top is stable; the bottom moves. Atorvastatin has been #1 since 2018. Lower-volume drugs can drop in and out between years—carbamazepine, for example, was missing from the 2021–2022 lists and came back in 2023. (ClinCalc 2023 release notes)
- New drugs climb fast. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) jumped from #110 in 2023 to #32 in 2024. Semaglutide moved from #19 to #14. (ClinCalc 2024 release notes) If a list you're using doesn't have tirzepatide, it's older than this one.
None of that makes a list the boundary of the exam. The PTCE outline doesn't name drugs at all, so any medication an entry-level technician handles is fair game. Use a list as your scaffold, not your fence.
Questions about the PTCB top 200
Is there an official PTCB top 200 drug list? No. PTCB's content outline lists medication knowledge areas—names, classes, interactions, side effects, dosage forms, stability, storage—but no drug list.
Is learning the top 200 enough to pass? No list covers the exam. Medications is 35% of the PTCE; Federal Requirements, Patient Safety and Quality Assurance, and Order Entry and Processing make up the rest. Our PTCB exam prep hub covers the full blueprint, fees, and retake rules.
Should I learn brand-to-generic or generic-to-brand? Both. Area 1.1 names both, and a question can give you either one. The Zestril-and-lisinopril duplication in Q23 is the practical reason.
Do I need doses? You need to recognize strengths, dosage forms, and routes (area 1.4), not memorize every patient's dose. Start with the product details in the "Four details" section and the storage table.
Will this list change? Yes, once a year. ClinCalc releases each year's data a few months after the federal survey file. We'll recheck the ranks when the next release comes out.
Sources and how this page was checked
Last verified September 24, 2026. On that date we checked: all 200 ranks against ClinCalc's Top 200 of 2024 (database v2026.08, updated August 9, 2026); federal controlled-substance schedules against DEA's August 27, 2026 list; high-alert flags against ISMP's 2021 community/ambulatory list; look-alike pairs against the 2023 FDA/ISMP Tall Man list; the PTCE medication areas and weight against the outline effective January 6, 2026; and the storage, interaction, allergy, and boxed-warning facts used in the storage table and quiz against the linked primary label, FDA page, or manufacturer source. Brand, class, and common-use cells are concise study summaries rather than substitutes for a product label; product-specific indications and formulations can differ. For full prescribing information, use DailyMed.
- PTCE Content Outline, effective January 6, 2026 — PTCB
- The Top 200 of 2024, ClinCalc DrugStats Database v2026.08 — data from AHRQ MEPS
- Controlled Substances – Alphabetical Order — DEA Diversion Control Division
- FDA and ISMP Lists of Look-Alike Drug Names with Recommended Tall Man Letters (2023)
- ISMP List of High-Alert Medications in Community/Ambulatory Care Settings
- DailyMed — National Library of Medicine; labels linked beside individual facts above
Written by the Castleport Test Prep Editorial Team. Found an error? Our corrections log explains how to report it, and our methodology explains how we verify claims.
Castleport Test Prep is an independent exam prep publisher and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or approved by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Exam, credential, and drug names are used to identify their subjects; trademarks belong to their respective owners. The practice questions are original and are not PTCE questions. This page is a study reference, not medical advice, and no study resource can guarantee a passing score.