Pharmacology
Nursing Pharmacology Study Guide 2026 — Drug Classes and NCLEX Tips
May 30, 2026
High-Yield Drug Classes for NCLEX
- Beta Blockers (-olol): Treat hypertension. Side effects: bradycardia, hypotension. Never stop abruptly.
- ACE Inhibitors (-pril): Treat hypertension, heart failure. Side effect: dry cough, hyperkalemia.
- Loop Diuretics (furosemide): Monitor potassium — risk of hypokalemia.
- Anticoagulants: Warfarin — monitor INR. Heparin — monitor aPTT. Both high-alert.
- Opioids: Monitor respiratory rate. Antidote: Naloxone.
- Insulins: Know onset, peak, duration for all types.
Memory Tips
- Learn by drug class not individual drugs
- Use suffix to identify class — -olol, -pril, -statin, -mycin
- Make drug cards with action, side effects, nursing considerations
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