I’ve been learning a bit about pharmacology. And, since rout memorization really isn’t my
thing, I thought I’d share a few of my mnemonics! As with any device for memory, the more vivid
and striking, the better. And I’ve
created quite the crew here. For
reference, I’ll put brand names in bold and generic names in italics.
THE VILLAINS
Aka, beta-blockers, which lower
blood pressure. Now, “beta” is another
word for a critiquer/proofreader, so you know anyone who blocks them is a
villain. Besides, their names end in
-lol, so you just know they’re laughing at you!
We have . . .
Tenormin. A villainous name, if ever I’ve heard
one! Probably because it’s almost like Norman. That means he must be first alphabetically: Atenolol.
Metoprolol, the robotic villain
who can only mechanically repeat what he’s good for: Lopressor. He’s also called Toprol, because he’s
pretty uncreative.
Coreg, the ex-carnie turned
inquisitor: Carvedilol, who will coreg [correct] you.
Zebeta, the dark business
lady Bisoprolol.
All will cackle loudly -- -lol! – as
they decrease your blood pressure.
THE HEROES
We also have heroes These noble meds stop the firehose (aka
proton pump) squirting acid into your stomach, protecting you from ulcers and
acid reflux. They are our proton pump
inhibitors. We have . . .
The rabbit (Rabeprazole) with
a hiccup who throws hexes – AcipHex
The heavy with the huge proton gun
he’s named Protonix. He wears
nothing but pants, so we know him as Pantoprazole.
Esomeprazole (like Esme,
Granny Weatherwax, the witch from Discworld).
She uses magic threads (a la Dealing With Dragons), so we call
her Nexium.
Lansoprazole, who is clearly
Lancelot. He prevaricates but also
heroically prevents acid—Prevacid.
Prilosec, the pinstriped-suit-wearing
tall, thin, narrow one who looks like a secretary but is actually the omniscient
(Omeprazole) leader.
Go -prazole razzle team!
-
Yes, this really, really helps me
remember.
