In pharmacology, the mechanism of action (MOA) is the specific biological process through which a drug produces its pharmacological effect AKA how it works. ⁠

Not only is knowing the mechanism of action important for exams and NAPLEX (as they are popular test questions), it gives you a baseline to understand/remember the drug indication, side effects, and underlying pathophysiology of the disease state.⁠⠀

Some MOAs are more complicated than others while some MOAs are unknown. Often, we get lucky and the drug class hints at the mechanism of action such as calcium channel blockers, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers, etc. but this may not always be the case. ⁠⠀

Check out some tips and tricks on how to remember the MOA of some other common medications below:⁠⠀

-Rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban – anticoagulants⁠⠀
-Montelukast (Singulair) – used for allergic rhinitis and asthma⁠⠀
-Sulfamethoxazole – used in combination with trimethoprim as an antibiotic ⁠⠀
-Metformin (Glucophage) – antidiabetic medication⁠⠀
-Nitroglycerin – antianginal agent⁠⠀