The drug classifications can be further divided into two groups: noncontrolled and controlled drugs. Noncontrolled Drugs Noncontrolled  drugs  are  referred  to  as  non- prescription,  over  the  counter  drugs  (OTC),  (i.e., aspirin,   and   mild   analgesics).   These   drugs   are effective for relieving most mild dental pain. Controlled Drugs All  prescription  drugs  are  to  be  treated  with respect; certain groups considered to have a potential for abuse, such as narcotics, stimulants, and sedatives require  special  handling  and  security  measures. Controlled substances are those drugs listed in the Controlled Substance Act of 1970 that is administered by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) of the Justice  Department.  Controlled  drugs  are  categorized into five schedules. MANMED, chapter 21, describes the schedules. Ethyl alcohol (used to fuel laboratory torches), although not included in any schedules of the Controlled Substances Act, must be received and accounted for, and dispensed in the same manner as schedule  II  substances  described  in  MANMED, chapter 21. DRUG NOMENCLATURE The term drug nomenclature implies that there are several names that can be used to identify a drug. Normally  drugs  have  three  names:  chemical,  generic, and trade (brand). Chemical  name—Describes  the  chemical  and molecular structure. The chemical name of a common dental   local   anesthetic   called   acetamide   is 2-(diethylamino)-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-monohydro chloride  (C₁₄H₂₂N₂O.HCL.H₂O). Generic name—Describes the common name of the drug. The above example has the generic name of lidocaine hydrochloride. Trade  name—This  name  is  given  by  the manufacturer, and is also called the brand name. DRUGS USED IN DENTISTRY The drugs listed here are some of those commonly used  in  dentistry  and  are  grouped  according  to pharmacological classes. Only a brief summary is possible here and the Dental Technician who desires more complete study of each drug should refer to reference books in the command library. ACIDS Acids are very caustic and present a sour taste. Extreme care must be taken when handling acidic substances. Follow all safety precautions on Material Safety  Data  Sheets  (MSDS)  for  each  product.  A common acid used in dentistry is phosphoric acid, and comes in the forms of solutions or gels. It can be used in etching procedures with composite restorations, sealants, and orthodontic brackets. EMOLLIENTS Emollients  are  bland  or  fatty  substances  that may be applied to the skin to make it more pliable and soft,  and  can  also  serve  as  a  lubricant  in  dental procedures. Cocoa  Butter  (Theobroma  Oil) Cocoa butter is an excel lent emollient with a pleasant odor. It is ideal for the treatment of chapped or cracked lips, and can also be used as a lubricant in rubber dam procedures. Petrolatum (Petroleum Jelly) Petrolatum  is  highly  occlusive  and  a  good emollient. It can be used as a lubricant when handling sticky dental materials, and has several uses in the prosthetic  laboratory. DISINFECTANTS, ANTISEPTICS, AND GERMICIDES These drugs and chemicals are primarily intended for   the   prevention   of   infections   by   destroying microorganisms  or  preventing  their  growth.  The differences  among  them  are  based  primarily  on  the degree of activity and how they are used. Complete details  on  their  uses  is  covered  in  chapter  10, “Sterilization and Disinfection.” ANTIBIOTICS Antibiotics are chemical compounds that stop the growth of or destroy different types of bacteria and other micro-organisms. They are used in dentistry to treat  oral  infections.    They are also prescribed as a 7-3