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 their doctors prescribed.

As a new pharmacy tech, you may feel intimidated. 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 bacterial infections, such as strep throat, ear infections, and pneumonia. You’ll help prepare various forms of antibiotics, such as pills, liquids, and occasionally creams. You must know the appropriate dosages and monitor potential side effects, such as upset stomachs or allergic reactions.

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 understand how antibiotics work and ensure they are 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 a range of 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 play a key role in keeping these medications secure and ensuring patients receive clear instructions on how to use them 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 need to ensure medications are filled correctly and help double-check 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 help prepare and dispense 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 last for a long time, sometimes a lifetime. Diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and thyroid disorders are a few examples. You will meet many patients who depend on daily medications 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 help patients stay on track by ensuring they receive the right medication at the right time. This helps them live healthier, more comfortable lives.

Pharmacy technicians help individuals manage chronic illnesses. You’ll be someone people trust and rely on, something to be 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 little as 9 months, and eligible students can receive financial assistance. 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!