The Top 200 Drugs on the PTCB

The Top 200 Drugs on the PTCB

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam is the final step before becoming a certified pharmacy tech. The credential is your gateway to a promising career in pharmacy, which makes this test extremely important.

The PTCB exam can be challenging, so preparation is necessary for success. A rigorous study routine is imperative to get the score you need. To get you started, here are the top 200 drugs you are likely to encounter when you take the PTCB exam. They are categorized by drug type, including brand and generic names, and are also arranged all together in a chart below. Familiarizing yourself with the top 200 drugs and their uses will go a long way to ensuring a great score on the PTCB exam.

5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor

5-Alpha reductase inhibitors are a class of drugs commonly used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate. They work by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate growth. These medications may also be used off-label for androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness) in some patients.

Common examples include:

  • Avodart (dutasteride)

  • Proscar (finasteride) – Also available under the name Propecia when prescribed for hair loss.

ACE inhibitor

Angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACE) inhibitors help relax arteries and veins, which can aid in lowering blood pressure. They work by preventing the production of angiotensin II, a substance that narrows blood vessels, by certain enzymes in the body.

  • Aceon (perindopril)

  • Altace (ramipril)

  • Epaned (enalapril, oral solution)

  • Enalapril (Vasotec)

  • Prinivil (lisinopril)

  • Qbrelis (lisinopril, oral solution)

  • Vasotec (enalapril)

  • Zestril (lisinopril)

  • Lotensin (benazepril)

  • Mavik (trandolapril)

  • Monopril (fosinopril)

  • Univasc (moexipril)

  • Capoten (captopril)

Alpha-1 Blocker

Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonists, also known as alpha-blockers, bind to type 1 alpha-adrenergic receptors. This binding inhibits smooth muscle contraction, which can aid in managing hypertension and benign prostatic hypertrophy.

  • Cardura (doxazosin)

  • Flomax (tamsulosin)

  • Hytrin (terazosin)

  • Uroxatral (alfuzosin)

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Medications

These medications are used to manage symptoms of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. While they do not cure these conditions, they can improve cognition, motor control, or daily function in many patients.

  • Aricept (donepezil) – acetylcholinesterase inhibitor for Alzheimer’s

  • Cogentin (benztropine) – for Parkinson’s-related tremors and antipsychotic-induced movement disorders

  • Requip (ropinirole) – dopamine agonist for Parkinson’s disease

  • Stalevo 50 (levodopa, carbidopa, and entacapone) – combination therapy for Parkinson’s disease

Antipsychotic Medications

These medications are used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychotic disorders by regulating dopamine and serotonin activity in the brain.

  • Clozaril (clozapine)

  • Haldol (haloperidol)

  • Risperdal (risperidone)

  • Seroquel (quetiapine)

  • Zyprexa (olanzapine)

Antipyretic Analgesics

Antipyretic analgesics are medications that relieve pain (analgesic) and reduce fever (antipyretic). The most common agents in this category include acetaminophen and its combinations with other drugs for enhanced effect.

  • Tylenol (acetaminophen)

  • Night Time (acetaminophen and diphenhydramine)

  • Fioricet (acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine)

  • Percocet (acetaminophen and oxycodone)

  • Vicodin (acetaminophen and hydrocodone)

Anti-Gout Medications

These medications are used to manage gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the bloodstream. Allopurinol works by reducing uric acid production, while colchicine helps relieve inflammation and pain during acute gout attacks.

  • Colcrys (colchicine)

  • Mitigare (colchicine)

  • Zyloprim (allopurinol)

Anti-Malarial Medications

Anti-malarial medications are used to treat and prevent malaria, a parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes. Some drugs in this class are also used for autoimmune conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

  • Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine)

Anti-Migraine Medications

These medications target the trigeminovascular system in the brain. They are used to treat migraines and cluster headaches.

  • Relpax (eletriptan)

  • Imitrex (sumatriptan)

  • Zomig (zolmitriptan)

Antibiotics and Antibacterial Medications

You will almost certainly encounter various drugs on the PTCB exam that combat bacterial infections, including pneumonia, bronchitis, and diseases affecting the ears, nose, throat, and other areas of the body.

Penicillin, discovered by Dr. Alexander Fleming in 1928, is a beta-lactam that interferes with the production of molecules called peptidoglycan that helps produce strong links between bacterial cells. Some medications on this list, like Flagyl, also serve as anti-protozoal drugs.

  • Adoxa (doxycycline)

  • Amoxil / Trimox (amoxicillin)

  • Augmentin (amoxicillin and clavulanic acid)

  • Avelox (moxifloxacin)

  • Bactroban (mupirocin)

  • Biaxin (clarithromycin)

  • Ceftin (cefuroxime)

  • Cipro (ciprofloxacin)

  • Cleocin (clindamycin)

  • Flagyl (metronidazole)

  • Keflex (cephalexin)

  • Levaquin (levofloxacin)

  • Macrobid / Macrodantin (nitrofurantoin)

  • Omnicef (cefdinir)

  • Pen VK (penicillin)

  • Sumycin / Ala-Tet / Brodspec (tetracycline)

  • Vibramycin (doxycycline)

  • Zithromax (azithromycin)

Anti-Cancer Medications

Medications containing pemetrexed and bevacizumab are often used as the first treatment regimen for metastatic cancer with no gene mutations. Common types include ovarian and non-squamous, non-small-cell lung cancers.

  • Alimta (pemetrexed)

  • Avastin (bevacizumab)

Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Medications

These medications help prevent blood clots, which can lead to serious cardiovascular events like heart attacks, strokes, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They are especially important for patients with a history of atrial fibrillation, mechanical heart valves, or recent surgery.

Antiplatelets

Prevent platelets from clumping together, reducing the risk of clot formation.

  • Plavix (clopidogrel)

Anticoagulants

Slow down the clotting cascade by targeting clotting factors, making it harder for blood to clot.

  • Coumadin (warfarin)

  • Eliquis (apixaban)

  • Pradaxa (dabigatran)

  • Xarelto (rivaroxaban)

  • Lovenox (enoxaparin)

  • Heparin Sodium (heparin)

Anticonvulsant Medications

Anticonvulsant or anti-seizure medications are common treatments for people with epilepsy or other chronic seizure disorders. They also may be prescribed following neurological procedures to reduce the risk of seizures. These drugs work by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

  • Depakote (divalproex sodium)

  • Depacon (valproate sodium)

  • Dilantin (phenytoin)

  • Keppra (levetiracetam)

  • Lamictal (lamotrigine)

  • Topamax (topiramate)

  • Lyrica (pregabalin)

  • Neurontin (gabapentin)

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are medications used to treat clinical depression and related mood disorders. Most work by increasing or regulating neurotransmitters in the brain—such as serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine—which affect mood and emotional balance. They may also be prescribed for conditions like generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, and PTSD.

  • Celexa (citalopram)

  • Desyrel (trazodone)

  • Elavil (amitriptyline)

  • Lexapro (escitalopram)

  • Luvox (fluvoxamine)

  • Pamelor (nortriptyline)

  • Paxil (paroxetine)

  • Prozac (fluoxetine)

  • Tofranil (imipramine)

  • Wellbutrin (bupropion)

Antidiabetic Medications

Antidiabetic medications are used to control blood sugar levels in individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, though most oral and non-insulin injectables target type 2 diabetes. These drugs work through various mechanisms, such as:

  • stimulating insulin release

  • improving insulin sensitivity

  • reducing glucose absorption or production

  • mimicking or enhancing the effects of incretin hormones

Sulfonylureas

Stimulate insulin secretion.

  • Amaryl (glimepiride)

  • DiaBeta (glyburide)

  • Glucotrol (glipizide)

Biguanides

Reduce hepatic glucose production.

  • Glucophage (metformin)

SGLT2 Inhibitors

Increase glucose excretion in urine.

  • Invokana (canagliflozin)

  • Farxiga (dapagliflozin)

  • Jardiance (empagliflozin)

DPP-4 Inhibitors

Prolong incretin action to increase insulin release.

  • Januvia (sitagliptin)

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Mimic incretin to stimulate insulin release and slow digestion.

  • Victoza (liraglutide)

  • Saxenda (liraglutide)

These are used for weight loss.

  • Ozempic (semaglutide)

  • Rybelsus (semaglutide) – oral formulation

  • Trulicity (dulaglutide)

Insulin Products

Replace or supplement insulin.

  • HumuLIN (insulin isophane)

  • HumaLOG (insulin lispro)

  • Lantus (insulin glargine)

  • Levemir (insulin detemir)

  • NovoLog (insulin aspart)

Antiemetic Medications

Antiemetic medications are used to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. They are commonly prescribed for motion sickness, gastroenteritis, pregnancy-related nausea, postoperative nausea, and chemotherapy-induced nausea.

  • Zofran (ondansetron)

Antifungal Medications

Antifungal medications kill or inhibit the growth of fungal infections in the body. These infections range from mild (like athlete’s foot) to serious, especially in immunocompromised individuals such as those with AIDS, cancer, or recent organ/stem cell transplants.

  • Diflucan (fluconazole)

  • Lotrisone (clotrimazole and betamethasone)

  • Nizoral (ketoconazole)

Antihistamines

Antihistamines block the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during allergic reactions. Histamine causes symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, itching, and swelling. Antihistamines help relieve these symptoms and are commonly used to treat seasonal allergies, urticaria (hives), and allergic rhinitis.

  • Allegra (fexofenadine)

  • Benadryl (diphenhydramine)

  • Claritin (loratadine)

  • Zyrtec (cetirizine)

  • Vistaril (hydroxyzine)

Anti-insomnia Medications

Anti-insomnia medications work by slowing down activity in the brain, which aids in falling and staying asleep.

  • Ambien (zolpidem)

  • Lunesta (eszopiclone)

  • Sonata (zaleplon)

Antiretroviral Medications (HIV)

Antiretroviral medications are used to manage HIV infections by preventing the virus from replicating in the body. These drugs are often prescribed as part of combination therapy (HAART) to reduce viral load, improve immune function, and slow the progression of the disease.

  • Atripla (emtricitabine, tenofovir, and efavirenz)

  • Isentress (raltegravir)

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral medications are used to treat a variety of viral infections, including herpes simplex, shingles (varicella-zoster), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and hepatitis C. These drugs are not used for HIV but are important in managing other viral illnesses in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients.

  • Sovaldi (sofosbuvir) – For hepatitis C

  • Valcyte (valganciclovir) – For cytomegalovirus (CMV)

  • Zovirax (acyclovir) – For herpes simplex virus and varicella-zoster virus

Asthma and Bronchitis Medications

These medications are used to manage asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by relaxing airway muscles and reducing inflammation. One common class is the beta-2 agonists, which selectively target receptors on bronchial smooth muscle to ease breathing. Other drugs, like leukotriene inhibitors, reduce airway inflammation.

  • Advair (salmeterol and fluticasone)

  • Combivent Respimat (albuterol and ipratropium)

  • ProAir (albuterol)

  • Singulair (montelukast)

Attention Deficit Disorder and Anxiety Medications

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, typically diagnosed in childhood but often continuing into adulthood.

Medications for ADHD are primarily central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, which increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to improve focus, attention, and impulse control. Some ADHD medications are also used to treat narcolepsy.

In addition, non-stimulant medications may be used for ADHD, and anti-anxiety medications (anxiolytics) are prescribed to help manage generalized anxiety disorder and related conditions.

Stimulants for ADHD

  • Concerta (methylphenidate)

  • Ritalin (methylphenidate)

  • Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine)

  • Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)

Non-Stimulant for ADHD

  • Strattera (atomoxetine)

Anxiolytic (Anti-Anxiety)

  • Buspar (buspirone) – non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are used to treat severe anxiety, including panic disorders, and insomnia. They work by telling the brain to release a neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid, which makes the nervous system less active.

  • Ativan (lorazepam)

  • Klonopin (clonazepam)

  • Restoril (temazepam)

  • Valium (diazepam)

  • Xanax (alprazolam)

Beta-Blockers

Beta-blockers are a class of drugs that reduce heart rate and blood pressure by blocking the effects of adrenaline (epinephrine) on beta receptors. They are commonly used to treat hypertension, angina, and arrhythmias, and to improve survival after a heart attack.

  • Coreg (carvedilol)

  • Lopressor (metoprolol)

  • Tenormin (atenolol)

  • Zebeta (bisoprolol)

Birth Control

There are many different types of drugs used for female birth control, with most working by modifying hormone levels to prevent ovulation and alter the uterine lining. Combined oral contraceptives (COCs)—which contain estrogen and progestin—are the most commonly prescribed and most likely to appear on the PTCB exam.

  • Yaz (ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone)

  • Ortho Tri-Cyclen (ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate)

  • Loestrin (ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone)

Bone Health

Bisphosphonates are a class of medications used to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures. They are most commonly prescribed to treat osteoporosis, but may also be used in conditions like Paget’s disease and certain cancers that affect the bones, such as multiple myeloma.

  • Actonel (risedronate)

  • Boniva (ibandronate)

  • Fosamax (alendronate)

  • Reclast (zoledronic acid)

  • Zometa (zoledronic acid)

Cholesterol Medications

High cholesterol is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Several classes of medications help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and reduce triglycerides in the blood.

Statins

Statins are the most common cholesterol-lowering medications. They work by inhibiting cholesterol production in the liver.

  • Crestor (rosuvastatin)

  • Lipitor (atorvastatin)

  • Mevacor (lovastatin)

  • Pravachol (pravastatin)

  • Zocor (simvastatin)

Fibrates

Fibrates primarily lower triglyceride levels and increase HDL cholesterol.

  • TriCor (fenofibrate)

  • Antara (fenofibrate)

  • Lopid (gemfibrozil)

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 supplements help reduce triglyceride levels, especially in patients with very high levels.

  • Lovaza (omega-3 fatty acids)

Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitor

These drugs block cholesterol absorption in the intestines, reducing overall cholesterol levels.

  • Zetia (ezetimibe)

Niacin (Vitamin B3 Derivative)

Niacin can help raise HDL and lower LDL and triglycerides, though it’s used less frequently today.

  • Niaspan (niacin)

Common Cold/Flu Symptom Medications

Medications used for cold and flu relief help reduce symptoms like fever, cough, and congestion. These include antipyretics to lower fever, antitussives to suppress coughing, and expectorants to loosen mucus. While they do not cure viral infections, they provide symptom relief.

  • Bayer (aspirin) – antipyretic

  • Robitussin (dextromethorphan and guaifenesin) – antitussive/expectorant

  • Tamiflu (oseltamivir) – antiviral for influenza

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are synthetic drugs that mimic hormones produced by the adrenal glands. They reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune system and are used for asthma, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and skin conditions.

  • Ala-Cort (hydrocortisone)

  • Aristocort (triamcinolone)

  • Deltasone (prednisone)

Disinfectant/Antiseptics and Topical Anesthetic

Topical antiseptics are used to disinfect the skin before surgery, injections, or wound care by killing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms.

Topical anesthetics, like lidocaine, are used to numb the skin and relieve localized pain by blocking nerve signals.

  • ChloraPrep (chlorhexidine)

  • Lidoderm (lidocaine)

Diuretics

Diuretics are medications that help the body eliminate excess fluid by increasing urine output. They are commonly used to treat hypertension, edema, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Different types of diuretics work on different parts of the nephron in the kidney.

Loop Diuretics

Work in the loop of Henle to remove large amounts of fluid; used in heart failure and CKD.

  • Lasix (furosemide)

Thiazide Diuretics

Work in the distal tubule; commonly prescribed for hypertension and mild edema.

  • Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide)

Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Help retain potassium while promoting fluid loss; often used in heart failure or combined with other diuretics.

  • Aldactone (spironolactone)

Eye and Ear Medications

Eye and ear medications are typically administered as drops or ointments to treat infections, inflammation, or chronic conditions such as glaucoma. These medications are used locally and require proper administration technique for full effectiveness.

Glaucoma Medications (Ophthalmic)

Used to reduce intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

  • Xalatan (latanoprost)

Otic Antibiotic / Steroid Combination

Used to treat outer ear infections and reduce associated inflammation and swelling.

  • Ciprodex (ciprofloxacin and dexamethasone)

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction medications work by relaxing the muscles and arteries inside the penis, creating better blood flow to help achieve erections. Drugs containing tadalafil can also help treat enlarged prostate.

  • Cialis (tadalafil)

  • Levitra (vardenafil)

  • Viagra (sildenafil)

Estrogen Modulators/Replacements

These medications are used to manage symptoms related to menopause or low estrogen levels, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and bone loss (osteoporosis). Some act by mimicking estrogen, while others selectively block or stimulate estrogen receptors in different tissues.

  • Evista (raloxifene) – selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)

  • Premarin (conjugated estrogens) – hormone replacement therapy

Gastrointestinal Medications

Gastrointestinal medications treat conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. These drugs fall into several categories:

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Reduce stomach acid and treat GERD and ulcers.

  • AcipHex (rabeprazole)

  • Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)

  • Nexium (esomeprazole)

  • Prevacid (lansoprazole)

  • Prilosec (omeprazole)

  • Protonix (pantoprazole)

H2 Blockers

Reduce stomach acid; often used for heartburn and mild ulcers.

  • Pepcid (famotidine)

Antispasmodics

Relieve muscle spasms in the GI tract; commonly used for IBS.

  • Bentyl (dicyclomine)

Laxatives and Stool Softeners

Treat constipation by softening stool or stimulating bowel movements.

  • Colace (docusate sodium)

  • Constulose (lactulose)

  • Ex-Lax (senna)

  • Miralax (polyethylene glycol 3350)

Antidiarrheals

Slow intestinal movement to relieve diarrhea.

  • Imodium (loperamide)

  • Lomotil (diphenoxylate and atropine)

Ulcer-Coating Agent

Forms a protective barrier over ulcers to promote healing.

  • Carafate (sucralfate)

Kidney Disease Medications

Medications used in chronic kidney disease (CKD) help manage complications such as secondary hyperparathyroidism and anemia. While they don’t cure CKD, they play a critical role in improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Calcimimetics

Used to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism by reducing parathyroid hormone levels in patients on dialysis.

  • Sensipar (cinacalcet)

Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents

Used to treat anemia in CKD by stimulating red blood cell production.

  • Procrit (epoetin alfa)

Immunosuppressants

Immunosuppressants are used to reduce or regulate immune system activity. They are commonly prescribed for organ transplant recipients to prevent rejection and for patients with autoimmune or inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and multiple sclerosis.

Calcineurin Inhibitors

Used to prevent organ transplant rejection by suppressing immune activation.

  • Neoral (cyclosporin)

Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)

Used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory autoimmune diseases.

  • Otrexup (methotrexate)

Biologic Immunomodulators

Target specific immune pathways; used in psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and other autoimmune conditions.

  • Enbrel (etanercept)

Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Receptor Modulators

Used to treat multiple sclerosis by preventing immune cells from reaching the brain and spinal cord.

  • Gilenya (fingolimod)

Monoclonal Antibodies

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are lab-made proteins designed to target specific components of the immune system or cancer cells. These therapies are used to treat a wide range of conditions including autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis, asthma, and certain cancers.

Autoimmune and Inflammatory Disorders

  • Remicade (infliximab) – for Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis

  • Stelara (ustekinumab) – for plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease

  • Xolair (omalizumab) – for allergic asthma and chronic hives

Oncology (Cancer Treatment)

  • Herceptin (trastuzumab) – for HER2-positive breast cancer

Osteoporosis and Bone Metastases

  • Prolia (denosumab) – for osteoporosis

Muscle Relaxants

Muscle relaxants are used to relieve muscle spasms and tightness caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, or musculoskeletal pain. These drugs act on the central nervous system to reduce nerve activity that controls muscle tone.

  • Lioresal (baclofen)

  • Robaxin (methocarbamol)

  • Zanaflex (tizanidine)

Nitrate Medications

Nitrates help relieve chest pain (angina) by relaxing blood vessels and increasing oxygen-rich blood flow to the heart. They are often used in the management of coronary artery disease.

  • Imdur (isosorbide mononitrate)

  • NitroStat (nitroglycerin)

NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)

NSAIDs reduce inflammation, pain, and fever by blocking enzymes involved in prostaglandin production. They are commonly used to treat headaches, muscle pain, menstrual cramps, and minor injuries.

  • Advil (ibuprofen)

  • Aleve (naproxen)

  • Cataflam (diclofenac)

  • Celebrex (celecoxib)

  • Mobic (meloxicam)

  • Relafen (nabumetone)

Opiate Narcotics/Analgesics

Opioids are potent narcotic analgesics used to manage moderate to severe pain. They work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to block pain signals. Some opioids, like methadone, are also used in medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction.

  • Duragesic (fentanyl)

  • Methadose (methadone)

  • Ultram (tramadol)

  • Norco (hydrocodone and acetaminophen)

  • Percocet (oxycodone and acetaminophen)

  • OxyContin (oxycodone, extended-release)

Smoking Cessation Medications

Smoking cessation medications help people quit smoking by reducing withdrawal symptoms and nicotine cravings. They may work by affecting nicotine receptors in the brain or by modulating dopamine and norepinephrine levels to improve mood and reduce the urge to smoke.

Nicotinic Receptor Partial Agonist

  • Chantix (varenicline)

Atypical Antidepressant (Also Used for Smoking Cessation)

  • Zyban (bupropion)

Note: Bupropion is also used as an antidepressant under the brand name Wellbutrin. For smoking cessation, it is branded as Zyban and often taken in combination with behavioral therapy.

Thyroid Medications

Thyroid medications are used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. These medications help restore normal levels of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) to regulate the body’s metabolism, energy, and temperature.

Thyroid Hormone Replacements

  • Synthroid (levothyroxine)

  • Levoxyl (levothyroxine)

  • Cytomel (liothyronine)

Vaccines

A vaccine is typically a shot given to a patient to protect them from getting sick from a virus. The most common vaccine is the flu shot (ex: Flucelvax), which is recommended to most people annually to protect them against the most widespread influenza strains.

  • Fluzone; Flucelvax; Fluad (influenza vaccine)

  • Spikevax; Comirnaty (COVID vaccine)

  • Shingrix (herpes zoster vaccine)

Top 200 Drugs for the PTCB Exam

Brand Name Generic Name Drug Classification
Advair Diskus fluticasone/salmeterol Corticosteroid + Bronchodilator
Crestor rosuvastatin Statin
Cymbalta duloxetine SNRI antidepressant
Vyvanse lisdexamfetamine CNS stimulant (for ADHD)
Lasix furosemide Diuretic (Loop)
Coumadin warfarin Anticoagulant
Lantus insulin glargine Long-acting insulin
Neurontin gabapentin Antiepileptic/Antineuralgic
Zoloft sertraline SSRI antidepressant
ProAir HFA; Ventolin albuterol Bronchodilator
Augmentin amoxicillin/clavulanate Antibiotic (Penicillin)
Ambien zolpidem Sedative
Singulair montelukast Leukotriene receptor antagonist
Toprol XL metoprolol succinate Beta-blocker
Seroquel quetiapine Atypical antipsychotic
Diovan valsartan ARB (Angiotensin receptor blocker)
Viagra sildenafil Erectile dysfunction treatment
Zocor simvastatin Statin
Flexeril cyclobenzaprine Muscle relaxant
Concerta methylphenidate CNS stimulant (for ADHD)
Tamiflu oseltamivir Antiviral
Mobic meloxicam NSAID
Premarin conjugated estrogens Estrogen replacement
Bactrim DS sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim Antibiotic (Sulfonamide)
Effexor XR venlafaxine SNRI antidepressant
Glucophage metformin Antidiabetic (Biguanide)
Prozac fluoxetine SSRI antidepressant
Celebrex celecoxib NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor)
Klonopin clonazepam Benzodiazepine
Abilify aripiprazole Atypical antipsychotic
OxyContin oxycodone Opioid analgesic
Diflucan fluconazole Antifungal
Paxil paroxetine SSRI antidepressant
Prilosec omeprazole Proton pump inhibitor
Lyrica pregabalin Antiepileptic/Antineuralgic
Xanax alprazolam Benzodiazepine
Spiriva tiotropium Anticholinergic bronchodilator
Januvia sitagliptin DPP-4 inhibitor (Antidiabetic)
Tricor fenofibrate Antihyperlipidemic (Fibrate)
Actos pioglitazone Antidiabetic (Thiazolidinedione)
Levaquin levofloxacin Antibiotic (Fluoroquinolone)
Benicar olmesartan ARB (Angiotensin receptor blocker)
Ultram tramadol Opioid analgesic
Fosamax alendronate Bisphosphonate (for osteoporosis)
Suboxone buprenorphine/naloxone Opioid dependence treatment
Humulin R insulin regular Short-acting insulin
Lunesta eszopiclone Sedative
Lotensin benazepril ACE inhibitor
Advil/Motrin ibuprofen NSAID
Depakote divalproex Antiepileptic
Strattera atomoxetine Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (for ADHD)
Valtrex valacyclovir Antiviral
Aleve naproxen NSAID
Cipro ciprofloxacin Antibiotic (Fluoroquinolone)
Coreg carvedilol Beta-blocker
Keppra levetiracetam Antiepileptic
Claritin loratadine Antihistamine
Flonase fluticasone (nasal) Corticosteroid (nasal spray)
Zetia ezetimibe Cholesterol absorption inhibitor
Risperdal risperidone Atypical antipsychotic
Tylenol acetaminophen Analgesic/Antipyretic
Altace ramipril ACE inhibitor
Zyprexa olanzapine Atypical antipsychotic
Wellbutrin bupropion Antidepressant
Desyrel trazodone Antidepressant
Evista raloxifene SERM (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator)
Imdur isosorbide mononitrate Nitrate (for angina)
Adderall XR amphetamine/dextroamphetamine CNS stimulant (for ADHD)
Lanoxin digoxin Cardiac glycoside
Hyzaar losartan/hydrochlorothiazide ARB + Diuretic combination
Catapres clonidine Alpha-2 agonist
Atarax hydroxyzine Antihistamine
Geodon ziprasidone Atypical antipsychotic
Cardizem diltiazem Calcium channel blocker
Elavil amitriptyline Tricyclic antidepressant
Amaryl glimepiride Sulfonylurea (Antidiabetic)
Tenormin atenolol Beta-blocker
Dilantin phenytoin Antiepileptic
Maxalt rizatriptan Triptan (for migraines)
Glucotrol glipizide Sulfonylurea (Antidiabetic)
Cozaar losartan ARB (Angiotensin receptor blocker)
Reglan metoclopramide Antiemetic
Nolvadex tamoxifen SERM (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator)
Micardis telmisartan ARB (Angiotensin receptor blocker)
Pepcid famotidine H2-receptor antagonist
Buspar buspirone Anxiolytic
Duragesic fentanyl (transdermal) Opioid analgesic
Ortho-Tri-Cyclen ethinyl estradiol/norgestimate Oral contraceptive
Clozaril clozapine Atypical antipsychotic
Asacol mesalamine Anti-inflammatory (for IBD)
Aldactone spironolactone Potassium-sparing diuretic
Zanaflex tizanidine Muscle relaxant
Mevacor lovastatin Statin
Proscar finasteride 5-alpha reductase inhibitor
Remeron mirtazapine Antidepressant
Zestoretic lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide ACE inhibitor + Diuretic
Tessalon benzonatate Antitussive
Betapace sotalol Beta-blocker / Antiarrhythmic
Lotrisone clotrimazole/betamethasone Antifungal + Steroid
Trileptal oxcarbazepine Antiepileptic
Requip ropinirole Anti-Parkinson’s
Combivent; Duoneb albuterol/ipratropium Bronchodilator
Pamelor nortriptyline Tricyclic antidepressant
Tegretol carbamazepine Antiepileptic
Symbicort budesonide/formoterol Corticosteroid + Bronchodilator
Medrol methylprednisolone Corticosteroid
Haldol haloperidol Typical antipsychotic
Colace docusate Stool softener
Xalatan latanoprost Prostaglandin analog (glaucoma)
Sinemet carbidopa/levodopa Anti-Parkinson’s
Onglyza saxagliptin DPP-4 inhibitor (Antidiabetic)
Arimidex anastrozole Aromatase inhibitor (breast cancer)
Detrol tolterodine Antimuscarinic (overactive bladder)
Phenergan promethazine Antiemetic / Antihistamine
AndroGel testosterone (gel) Testosterone replacement
Prevacid lansoprazole Proton pump inhibitor
Janumet sitagliptin/metformin DPP-4 inhibitor + Biguanide (Antidiabetic)
Invokana canagliflozin SGLT2 inhibitor (Antidiabetic)
Flomax tamsulosin Alpha-1 blocker (for BPH)
Prograf tacrolimus Immunosuppressant
Zofran ondansetron Antiemetic
Cogentin benztropine Anticholinergic (for Parkinson’s or EPS)
Humalog insulin lispro Rapid-acting insulin
Topamax topiramate Antiepileptic
Diovan HCT valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide ARB + Diuretic combination
Inderal propranolol Beta-blocker
Lamictal lamotrigine Antiepileptic
Travatan Z travoprost (eye drops) Prostaglandin analog (glaucoma)
Vesicare solifenacin Antimuscarinic (overactive bladder)
Levitra vardenafil PDE-5 inhibitor (Erectile Dysfunction)
Aggrenox aspirin/dipyridamole Antiplatelet agent
Boniva ibandronate Bisphosphonate (for osteoporosis)
Exelon rivastigmine Cholinesterase inhibitor (Alzheimer’s)
Namenda memantine NMDA antagonist (Alzheimer’s)
Trulicity dulaglutide GLP-1 receptor agonist (antidiabetic)
Ozempic semaglutide GLP-1 receptor agonist (injectable, antidiabetic)
Victoza; Saxenda liraglutide GLP-1 receptor agonist (antidiabetic, weight loss)
Ritalin methylphenidate CNS stimulant (for ADHD)
Chantix varenicline Nicotine receptor partial agonist (smoking cessation)
Stelara ustekinumab Monoclonal antibody (psoriasis, Crohn’s)
Remicade infliximab Monoclonal antibody (Crohn’s, arthritis)
Xolair omalizumab Monoclonal antibody (asthma, hives)
Herceptin trastuzumab Monoclonal antibody (HER2+ breast cancer)
Procrit epoetin alfa Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (CKD-related anemia)
Sensipar cinacalcet Calcimimetic (for hyperparathyroidism in CKD)
Gilenya fingolimod S1P receptor modulator (multiple sclerosis)
Enbrel etanercept Biologic immunomodulator (autoimmune diseases)
Otrexup methotrexate DMARD (rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis)
Neoral; Restasis cyclosporine Calcineurin inhibitor (transplant rejection; dry eye)
Wellbutrin XL bupropion Antidepressant (extended-release)
Fioricet acetaminophen/butalbital/caffeine Analgesic (tension headaches)
Zyrtec cetirizine Antihistamine
Benadryl diphenhydramine Antihistamine (1st generation)
Vistaril hydroxyzine pamoate Antihistamine/Anxiolytic
Flagyl metronidazole Antibiotic/Antiprotozoal
Lotemax loteprednol Corticosteroid (ophthalmic)
Ciprodex ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone Otic antibiotic + steroid
ChloraPrep chlorhexidine Topical antiseptic
Lidoderm lidocaine (patch) Topical anesthetic
Sovaldi sofosbuvir Antiviral (Hepatitis C)
Valcyte valganciclovir Antiviral (CMV)
Celexa citalopram Antidepressant (SSRI)
Protonix pantoprazole Proton Pump Inhibitor
Deltasone prednisone Corticosteroid
Ativan lorazepam Benzodiazepine
Pen VK penicillin vk Beta lactam antibiotic
Lovaza omega-3 fatty acid Fatty Acid, antilipemic agent
Cialis tadalafil PDE-5 inhibitor (Erectile Dysfunction)
Imitrex sumatriptan Triptan (for migraine)
Lopressor metoprolol tartrate Beta blocker
Novolog insulin aspart Insulin
Levemir insulin detemir Insulin
Eliquis apixaban Factor Xa Inhibitor (anticoagulant)
Xarelto rivaroxaban Factor Xa Inhibitor (anticoagulant)
Nitrostat nitroglycerin Nitrate
Lioresal baclofen Muscle Relaxant
Zithromax azithromycin Macrolide (antibiotic)
Lexapro escitalopram Antidepressant (SSRI)
Macrobid nitrofurantoin mono/macrocrystals Antibiotic
Ex-lax/Senna-s senna Stool softener
Percocet oxycodone/acetaminophen Opioid/NSAID pain reliever combination
Aricept donepezil Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (Alzheimer’s disease)
Miralax polyethylene glycol 3350 Laxative
Humira adalimumab Monoclonal antibody (Crohn’s, UC, RA, etc.)
Breo Ellipta fluticasone/vilanterol Corticosteroid/Beta 2 Agonist combo (inhalation)
Mounjaro; Zepbound tirzepatide GIP/GLP-1 agonist combo (weight loss)
Dupixent dupilumab Monoclonal Antibody
Entresto sacubitril/valsartan ARB/Neprilysin Inhibitor (Heart Failure)
Farxiga dapagliflozin SGLT-2 Inhibitor (Diabetes)
Jardiance empagliflozin SGLT-2 Inhibitor (Diabetes)
Keflex cephalexin Cephalosporin antibiotic
Shingrix zoster vaccine Vaccine (Herpes Zoster)
Fluzone; Flucelvax; Fluad influenza vaccine Vaccine (Influenza)
Spikevax; Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine Vaccine (COVID-19)

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