5 Common Types of Medicines You’ll Work With as a Pharmacy Technician

When people feel sick, they often buy medicine at the pharmacy. But behind the counter, there’s a lot of work going on—especially from pharmacy technicians like you. You help ensure people get the right medicine as prescribed to them by their doctors.

As a new pharmacy tech, you may find it scary. There are so many types of medicines with complicated names and different uses. You might wonder, “Which ones will I need to know the most?”

In this blog, you’ll learn about five common types of medicines you’ll work with—so you can feel more confident on the job.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are the most ubiquitous form of medication. They treat infections caused by bacteria, such as strep throat, ear infections, and pneumonia.

You’ll assist in preparing various forms of antibiotics, such as pills, liquids, and occasionally even creams. You must know the appropriate dosages and monitor potential side effects, such as upset bellies or allergies.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nearly 47 million antibiotics are prescribed annually in America for infections that do not require antibiotics. That is why we need to know how antibiotics function and ensure that antibiotics are being used properly.

Analgesic

Analgesics, also known as pain relievers, are medications used by individuals to treat pain. They include plain over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) and more potent prescription medications such as opioids.

You’ll work with various pain medications and learn how to handle them properly. Some of these more potent drugs, such as opioids, have extremely stringent controls because, if not correctly used, they can become addictive. You’ll have a significant role in keeping these medications secure and ensuring patients have proper instructions on how to use these medications correctly.

Learning how pain medications work will enable you to assist patients and the pharmacist in your practice.

Cardiac Medications

Cardiac health has become a top priority in medicine. There are millions of individuals on medications to treat heart issues or reduce their chances of experiencing a heart attack or stroke.

As a Pharmacy Technician, you’ll handle medications such as:

• Anti-hypertensives (lower blood pressure)
• Antiarrhythmics (control irregular heart rhythms)
• Anti-platelet drugs (prevent blood clotting)
• Statins are cholesterol-lowering

These medications need to be handled carefully since patients frequently take multiple heart drugs simultaneously. You’ll have to ensure that medications are correctly filled and assist in double-checking for potential drug interactions.

Psychiatric Medications

Mental well-being is as significant as physical health. Some individuals take medications as a response to disorders such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia.

As a pharmacy technician, you will assist in preparing and dispensing psychiatric medications. Some of these include:

• Anti-anxiety medications
• Mood stabilizers
• Collabor

Due to the potential for psychiatric medications to have strong side effects, you need to pay close attention when filling these prescriptions. Pharmacy Technicians should be kind and understanding, as filling out mental illness medication may be an emotionally challenging experience at times for patients.

Being part of a mental health treatment-supporting pharmacy team is a serious responsibility, but it makes a real difference in individuals’ lives.

Risks of Medications: Short- and Long-Term Consequences

Long-standing health issues are chronic conditions that continue for a protracted period, sometimes a lifetime. Diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and thyroid disorders are a few examples.

You will meet numerous patients who depend on medications daily to treat these conditions. You will be working with these common medications:

• Insulin in Diabetes
• Asthma inhalers are
• Thyroid medication
• Anti-inflammatory drugs for arthritis

You’ll assist patients in staying on track by ensuring they receive the appropriate medication in the proper time. This will allow them to live healthier, more comfortable lives.

Pharmacy Technicians are responsible for assisting individuals in managing their chronic illnesses. You’ll be a person individuals come to trust and rely on — something worth being proud of!

Enroll Now and Begin Your Career in the Healthcare Industry!

Northwest Career College prepares you for real-world success. Our Pharmacy Technician Program gives you hands-on experience, expert training, and the self-confidence required to thrive.

You can complete your degree in as few as 9 months, and financial assistance is offered for those eligible. You’ll be prepared to work in pharmacies, hospitals, and healthcare centers, assisting patients daily. Get a head start on your new vocation. Enroll now at Northwest Career College!