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Drug Classes

From Michael Bihari, MD, for About.com

Updated: August 28, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: A drug class is a group of medications that may work in the same way, have a similar chemical structure, or are used to treat the same health condition.
Also Known As: medication class
Examples:

Antibiotics are a class of medications used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Some frequently prescribed antibiotics are: amoxicillin and Zithromax (azithromycin).

Antidepressants are a class of medications used to treat the symptoms of depression. Some frequently prescribed antidepressants are: Lexapro (escitalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline).

Statins are a class of medications that inhibit the production of cholesterol in the liver and are used to treat people who have high cholesterol. Some frequently prescribed statins are: Lipitor (atorvastatin) and Zocor (simvastatin).

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