Glossary of Medical Terms

A substance that is being studied in the treatment of cancer. It belongs to the families of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors and intercalating agents.

A drug used to treat some bacterial infections. Amoxicillin is a form of penicillin that is made in the laboratory. It kills certain types of bacteria. It is a type of antibiotic.

A drug used to treat bacterial infections. Adding the chemical clavulanate potassium to the antibiotic amoxicillin increases the amount of time the antibiotic stays active in the body. Amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium is a type of combination antibiotic. Also called Augmentin.

A prescribed drug that has a marked stimulant action on the central nervous system. It produces a feeling of mental alertness and well being. Tolerance to amphetamine develops rapidly and prolonged use may lead to dependence.

Presence of inappropriate behaviour or physiological changes that develop during, or shortly after, use of amphetamines or related substances.

A drug used in the treatment of infections caused by fungi. It is a type of antifungal.

A substance that is being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer, including pancreatic, lung, breast, prostate, melanoma, and multiple myeloma. It belongs to the family of drugs called cyanoaziridine derivatives. Also called imexon.

A sac-like enlargement of a canal or duct.

An enlargement of the ducts from the liver and pancreas at the point where they enter the small intestine.

Cancer that forms in the ampulla of Vater (an enlargement of the ducts from the liver and pancreas where they join and enter the small intestine). Symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Also called ampullary cancer.