Anatomical classification of drugs
The anatomical classification of drugs refers to the grouping of drugs based on the body system or organ they primarily affect. This is the first level of the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification system, and it provides a broad overview of a drug’s target site.
Here are the 14 main anatomical groups in the ATC system:
- A – Alimentary tract and metabolism: Drugs for the digestive system and metabolic processes.
- B – Blood and blood forming organs: Drugs for the blood and blood-forming organs.
- C – Cardiovascular system: Drugs for the heart and blood vessels.
- D – Dermatologicals: Drugs for the skin.
- G – Genito-urinary system and sex hormones: Drugs for the urinary and reproductive systems, and sex hormones.
- H – Systemic hormonal preparations, excl. sex hormones and insulins: Hormones used for systemic effects, excluding sex hormones and insulin.
- J – Anti-infectives for systemic use: Drugs used to treat infections.
- L – Antineoplastics and immunomodulating agents: Drugs used to treat cancer and modulate the immune system.
- M – Musculo-skeletal system: Drugs for the muscles, bones, and joints.
- N – Nervous system: Drugs for the nervous system.
- P – Antiparasitic products, insecticides and repellents: Drugs used to kill or repel parasites, insects, and other pests.
- R – Respiratory system: Drugs for the respiratory system.
- S – Sensory organs: Drugs for the eyes and ears.
- V – Various: Drugs that don’t fit into other categories.
Within each anatomical group, drugs are further classified based on their therapeutic effects and chemical properties. This hierarchical system allows for a more detailed and specific categorization of drugs.
It’s important to note that the anatomical classification is just one aspect of drug categorization. Other factors, such as the drug’s mechanism of action and side effects, are also important when considering how a drug works and how it should be used.
Suggested readings:
Final Year B Pharm Notes, Syllabus, Books, PDF Subjectwise/Topicwise
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