| Acronym | Definition |
|---|---|
| NSAID | Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug |
| Antipyretic | A drug used to reduce fever. |
| Analgesic | A medication used to relieve pain. |
| Antibiotic | A drug used to treat bacterial infections. |
| Anticoagulant | A substance that prevents blood clotting. |
| Diuretic | A drug that increases the excretion of urine. |
| Stat | Immediately; often used in urgent medication orders. |
| PRN | Pro Re Nata (as needed); used for medications given as needed. |
| IV | Intravenous; a route of administration directly into a vein. |
| IM | Intramuscular; a route of administration directly into a muscle. |
| PO | Per Os (by mouth); a route of administration orally. |
| Topical | A medication applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes. |
| Sublingual | A route of administration under the tongue. |
| Buccal | A route of administration between the cheek and gum. |
| OTC | Over-The-Counter; refers to medications available without a prescription. |
| Antihypertensive | A medication used to lower blood pressure. |
| Antidepressant | A medication used to treat depression. |
| Bronchodilator | A medication that relaxes bronchial muscle resulting in expanded air passages. |
| Corticosteroid | A type of steroid hormone used to reduce inflammation. |
| Beta-Blocker | A medication that reduces blood pressure by blocking the effects of adrenaline. |