Key Terms
Concise definitions for terms used throughout this guide
Quick definitions for the terms used throughout this guide — each gets fuller context in its own section.
Antimicrobial Resistance
The process by which bacteria and other microbes evolve to survive medications designed to kill them, driven substantially by unnecessary or improperly completed antibiotic courses. A recognised, growing global health threat.
NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug)
A class of pain and inflammation medication, including ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, that works by blocking prostaglandin-producing enzymes — the same mechanism responsible for both its benefits and its gut, kidney, and cardiovascular risks.
Pharmacodynamic Interaction
A drug interaction in which two medications affect the body through related mechanisms, producing a combined effect that's more than simply additive — combining alcohol with sedating medications is a common example.
Pharmacokinetic Interaction
A drug interaction in which one medication changes how another is absorbed, metabolised, or cleared from the body, often via shared liver enzyme pathways.
Polypharmacy
Regularly taking five or more medications, typically in older adults with multiple chronic conditions. Associated with rising risk of adverse drug reactions and interactions as the number of medications increases.