Quarter
CHEMISTRY AND MEDICINE
4
STE
INTRODUCTION
In this quarter, we will explore the critical role of chemistry in medical
products and their impact on our health, industry, and the environment.
Understanding the chemical processes and principles involved in medical
products is essential in enhancing the integrity and wellness of the human
body and protecting the environment. As consumers, we often rely on medical
products to maintain our health, prevent illnesses, and cure diseases.
However, it is crucial to recognize that the effectiveness of these products
depends on their chemical properties and how they interact with our bodies.
Through this module, you will learn about the chemical components of
medical products and how they affect our bodies, the importance of safety
and quality control in the manufacturing of these products, and their
environmental impact. You will also have the opportunity to analyze some
medical products, their uses, and effects through the preparation of science
brochures.
Overall, it aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of
the key concepts in consumer chemistry, the benefits of medical products to
our health, industry, and the environment, and the critical role of chemistry
in sustaining a quality life.
By the end of this module, you must be able to:

demonstrate understanding of the key concepts on consumer chemistry,
uses and benefits of medical products to one’s health, industry, and the
environment.
1|Page
Module
1
Medicine is a broad field that encompasses health and healing, including
the expertise of nurses, doctors, and other specialists. It addresses the
diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, medical research, and
various aspects of health to achieve optimal health and well-being.
The
ultimate goal of medicine is to promote and maintain good health and wellness
in individuals.
At the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
1. define medicine;
2. explain the history and evolution of medicine; and
3. explain the different classifications of medicine.
PRE -ASSESSMENT:
Directions: Read the following questions carefully and write only the letter of
the correct answer. Write it on a separate sheet of paper.
1.
What do you call the practices and procedures used for the prevention,
treatment, or relief of symptoms of diseases or abnormal conditions?
2.
a.
Cancer
c. Homeopathy
b.
Drug
d. Medicine
What medicinal practices were commonly used by ancient people?
a.
All of the above.
c . Use antibiotics to treat virus
b.
Practice surgery with robots
d. Use of herbs and medicine
2|Page
3.
4.
5.
6.
What does WHO stand for?
a.
World Health Organization
c. World Housing Organization
b.
World Humanitarian Organization
d. World Hunger Organization
Who is considered to be the father of Ancient Medicine?
a. Asclepius
c. Hippocrates
b. Galen
d. Imhotep
Who is considered to be the father of Modern Medicine?
a. Asclepius
c. Hippocrates
b. Galen
d. Imhotep
Which of the following is a substance (other than food) that is used to
prevent, diagnose,
treat, or relieve symptoms of a disease or abnormal
condition?
7.
a. Drug
c. Medicine
b. Homeopathy
d. Pharmacology
Which is not true about Prescription drugs?
a.
May have a higher risk of side effects or adverse reactions
b.
Require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider
c.
Consumers can order these drugs for themselves without a
prescription
d.
Can be given only on the order of a physician, physician assistant,
or qualified nurse
3|Page
8.
Which of the following best describes the Over-the-Counter drugs?
a. Medications that are illegal to possess or consume
b. Medications that are only available in certain countries
c. Medications that are available for purchase without a prescription.
d. Medications that require a prescription from a healthcare provider to
obtain.
9. Which of the following is true about biopharmaceuticals?
a. They are often taken orally or via injection.
b. They are typically derived from chemical synthesis.
c. They consist of relatively small, chemically synthesized molecules.
d. They are designed to target specific cellular processes or molecular
targets.
10. Which of the following is an example of a traditional small-molecule drug?
a. Aspirin
b. Gene therapy
c. Insulin
d. Monoclonal antibodies
4|Page
WHAT IS MEDICINE?
Medicine refers to the practices and
procedures used for the prevention,
treatment, or relief of symptoms of
diseases or abnormal conditions.
This
term may also refer to a legal drug used
for the same purpose. (www.cancer.gov)
These are chemicals or compounds
https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/male-and-femaledoctor
used to cure, halt, or prevent disease;
ease symptoms; or help in the diagnosis
of illnesses.
Advances in medicines have enabled doctors to cure many
diseases and save lives. (kidshealth.org)
It is a term used to describe how humans preserve their health through
drugs or surgery; it is an art form, a scientific study, and a practice.
(study.com)
It is the science and practice of caring for a patient and managing the
diagnosis, prognosis, prevention, treatment or palliation of their injury or
disease.
The word "medicine" is derived from Latin medicus, meaning "a
physician". Medicine encompasses a variety of health care practices evolved
to maintain and restore health by the prevention and treatment of illnesses.
HISTORY OF MEDICINE
Modern
distinct
from
medicine
the
is
medical
significantly
practices
of
ancient times. In early civilizations, there
were no medical experts or treatments
available, and ailments and diseases were
5|Page
considered a part of regular life and potential threats. Historians have
researched and noted the development of ancient medicine across various
cultures and societies.
Medicine in Ancient Egypt
Historians consider ancient Egypt as the
birthplace of medicine because it had the first
physicians. Imhotep (ee·mow·tep), a renowned
medical practitioner, is often regarded as the father
of medicine since there are no records of medical
work before him. The ancient Egyptians focused on
treating wounds and injuries and created medical
texts to educate others on how to prevent fatal
https://lionsgateccrc.org/medicine-in-ancientegypt/
injuries and save lives.
Medicine in Ancient Babylon
The
history
of
medicine
in
ancient Babylon relied heavily on magic
and religion, and medical treatments
were
a
combination
of
natural
remedies and faith rituals. Unlike the
Egyptians who believed in training
medical professionals, anyone could
become a doctor in Babylon, but it was a dangerous profession as a doctor
who killed a patient during surgery could have their hands amputated as a
form of punishment. Scholars have examined the medical practices of ancient
Babylon through surviving texts from 500 BCE, which describe the ingredients
used in medicines prescribed by doctors, but it seems that a lot of medical
practices were based on speculation.
6|Page
Medicine in Ancient India
To
understand
the
ancient
medicine of India, scholars study the
Vedas, a set of sacred texts passed
down
orally
from
generation
to
generation before being written down
between 1500 and 500 BCE. These
texts offer insight into the medical
practices of ancient India, which were
based on both natural remedies and
https://babavickramabedi.medium.com/ancient-indiaand-diabetes-c1cf917d83e2
religious beliefs.
While plants and
other natural medicines were used,
the healing of people was also thought
to be connected to gods, magic, and talismans such as crystals.
Medicine in Ancient China
The Ancient Chinese recorded their medical knowledge for future
generations, and an important text that is studied today by historians is the
Huangdi Neijing.
The text provides details on how to perform medical
treatments, particularly in internal medicine in ancient China.
The
ancient
Chinese
placed
great
emphasis on balance in the body and the
world, which they called the Yin-Yang. They
believed that if the internal balance of a person
was disrupted, they could fall ill and even die.
Ancient Chinese medical practices included
various procedures, some of which are still
being used today, like acupuncture. They also
used herbs and natural remedies to prevent diseases and cure illnesses.
7|Page
Medicine in Ancient Greece
About 2,000 to 2,700 years ago,
Greece was a powerful country that learned
about medicine from other countries like
Egypt, Babylon, China, and India.
They
combined this knowledge and made it their
own.
They also had a god of medicine
named Asclepius, who was known for
carrying a special staff with a snake on it. Today, this staff is a symbol for
medicine that people all over the world recognize. Today, it's the symbol used
by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Doctors today pledge to not harm their patients, and this promise is
called the "Hippocratic oath." It's named after a famous Greek doctor named
Hippocrates who is known as the father of modern medicine. He made many
rules and techniques that doctors still use today. In ancient Greece, medicine
started to become more based on science and natural effects rather than
religion, which was a big change.
8|Page
After the Greeks, the ancient Romans became
powerful and learned a lot about medicine from the
Greeks. A famous doctor called Galen was Greek, but
worked in Rome.
When the Roman Empire ended,
people still knew about these medical advances
because they were written down in books.
Monks
from the medieval times kept these books safe and
translated them into different languages. They also
started hospitals to help people using the information
in these books.
Medicine has been practiced since prehistoric times, during most of
which it was an art (an area of skill and knowledge) frequently having
connections to the religious and philosophical beliefs of local culture.
For
example, a medicine man would apply herbs and say prayers for healing, or
an ancient philosopher and physician would apply bloodletting according to
the theories of humorism.
In recent centuries, since the advent of modern science, most medicine
has become a combination of art and science (both basic and applied, under
the umbrella of medical science). While stitching technique for sutures is an
art learned through practice, the knowledge of what happens at the cellular
and molecular level in the tissues being stitched arises through science.
(frontlinejournals.org)
LEARNING TASK 1. Fill in the blanks. Read each sentence carefully. Select
the word from the word bank below that best completes the sentence. Write
it on a separate sheet of paper.
9|Page
cure
abnormal
compounds
practices
prevention
Medicine refers to the 1.____________ and procedures used for the
2.____________,
treatment,
or
relief
of
symptoms
of
diseases
or
3._______________ conditions. This term may also refer to a legal drug used
for the same purpose. Medicines are chemicals or 4.____________ used to
5._________, halt, or prevent disease; ease symptoms; or help in the
diagnosis of illnesses.
LEARNING TASK 2. Fill in each word horizontally or vertically in the
corresponding numbered space on the grid based on the clues provided,
ensuring intersecting letters match, to reveal a hidden word. Write your
answer on a separate sheet of paper.
DOWN
10 | P a g e
1. They had a god of medicine named Asclepius, who was known for
carrying a special staff with a snake on it.
2. The ancient people here used plants and natural medicines.
4. the birthplace of medicine
ACROSS
3. They are ancient people who placed great emphasis on balance in the
body and the world, which they called the Yin-Yang.
5. These ancient people relied heavily on magic and religion, and medical
treatments were a combination of natural remedies and faith rituals.
CLASSIFICATION OF MEDICINES
Pharmacology is a branch of medicine that deals with the interaction
of drugs with the systems and processes of living animals, in particular, the
mechanisms of drug action as well as the therapeutic and other uses of the
drug.
Drug is any substance (other than food) that is used to prevent,
diagnose, treat, or relieve symptoms of a disease or abnormal condition.
Drugs can also affect how the brain and the rest of the body work and cause
changes in mood, awareness, thoughts, feelings, or behavior. Some types of
drugs,
such
as
opioids,
(https://www.cancer.gov)
11 | P a g e
may
be
abused
or
lead
to
addiction.
The mission of FDA's Center for
Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) is
to ensure that drugs marketed in this
country are safe and effective. CDER
does not test drugs, although the center's
Office of Testing and Research does
conduct limited research in the areas of
drug quality, safety, and effectiveness.
centers.
CDER is the largest of FDA's six
It has responsibility for both prescription and nonprescription or
over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.
1. Drugs are classified in multiple ways. One of the key divisions is by level of
control, which distinguishes prescription drugs from over-the-counter drugs:
Prescription drugs:

Dispensed only on the order of a physician, physician assistant, or
qualified nurse

Require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider

Typically used to treat complex, chronic, or serious medical conditions

May have a higher risk of side effects or adverse reactions

Examples include antibiotics, antidepressants, and opioids
Over-the-counter drugs:

Consumers can order these drugs for themselves without a prescription

Generally considered safe and effective for self-diagnosis and treatment
of minor ailments

Typically used to treat common conditions like headaches, colds, and
allergies

May have fewer side effects or adverse reactions compared to
prescription drugs
12 | P a g e

Examples include pain relievers, cough and cold medicines, and antacids
2. Another key distinction in drug classification is between traditional smallmolecule drugs and biopharmaceuticals:
Traditional small-molecule drugs:

Typically derived from chemical synthesis

Consist of relatively small, chemically synthesized molecules

Designed to target specific cellular processes or molecular targets

Often taken orally or via injection

Examples include aspirin, statins, and antibiotics
Biopharmaceuticals:

Extracted from living organisms, such as genetically modified bacteria,
yeast, or animal cells

Include a wide range of complex molecules, such as proteins, antibodies,
and nucleic acids

Designed to target specific cellular processes or molecular targets

Often require injection or infusion to deliver them directly into the
bloodstream or affected tissues

Examples include vaccines, insulin, monoclonal antibodies, and gene
therapies
LEARNING TASK 3. TRUE or FALSE. Read each statement carefully and
indicate whether it is true or false. Write your answer on a separate sheet of
paper.
_____________ 1. Pharmacology is a branch of medicine that deals with the
interaction of drugs with the systems and processes of living animals.
13 | P a g e
_____________ 2. Prescription drugs require a prescription from a licensed
healthcare provider.
_____________ 3. Over-the-counter drugs are typically used to treat
complex, chronic, or serious medical conditions.
_____________ 4. Traditional small-molecule drugs are
typically derived
from chemical synthesis.
_____________ 5. Biopharmaceuticals are extracted from living organisms
such as genetically modified bacteria, yeast, or animal cells.
LEARNING TASK 4. Search your home for medications and make a list of
them on a separate sheet of paper. Then, research each medication to
determine whether it is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication or a
prescription drug. Categorize each medication accordingly on your list.
ASSESSMENT:
Directions: Read the following questions carefully. Write the letter of the
correct answer on a separate sheet of paper.
1. Who is often regarded as the father of medicine?
a. Asclepius
b. Galen
c. Hippocrates
d. Imhotep
2. In which ancient civilization were medical treatments a combination of
natural remedies and faith rituals?
14 | P a g e
a. Ancient Babylon
b. Ancient China
c. Ancient Egypt
d. Ancient Greece
3. What is the name of the set of sacred texts passed down orally from
generation to generation before being written down between 1500 and
500 BCE in India?
a. The Vedas
b. The Huangdi Neijing
c. The Hippocratic Corpus
d. The Canon of Medicine
4. What did the ancient Chinese call the balance in the body and the world?
a. Meridians
b. Qi
c. Shen
d. Yin-Yang
5. What is the name of the famous Greek doctor who is known as the
father of modern medicine?
a. Asclepius
b. Galen
c. Hippocrates
d. Imhotep
6. What is the name of the famous oath taken by doctors to not harm
their patients?
a. The Galenic Oath
b. The Imhotep Oath
c. The Asclepian Oath
15 | P a g e
d. The Hippocratic Oath
7. Which branch of medicine deals with the interaction of drugs with the
systems and processes of living animals?
a. Oncology
b. Pathology
c. Pharmacology
d. Radiology
8. Which of the following is an example of a prescription drug?
a. Antacids
b. Antidepressants
c. Aspirin
d. Ibuprofen
9. What is the main difference between prescription drugs and over-thecounter drugs?
a. Prescription drugs are more expensive than over-the-counter drugs.
b. Over-the-counter drugs are typically used to treat serious medical
conditions.
c. Prescription drugs are generally considered safer than over-thecounter drugs.
d. Prescription drugs require a prescription from a licensed healthcare
provider, while over-the-counter drugs do not.
10. Why are prescription drugs typically used to treat complex, chronic, or
serious medical conditions?
a. Because they are cheaper than over-the-counter drugs.
b. Because they are less effective than over-the-counter drugs.
c. Because they are easier to obtain than over-the-counter drugs.
d. Because they may have a higher risk of side effects or adverse
reactions.
11. What is the main difference between traditional small-molecule drugs
16 | P a g e
and biopharmaceuticals?
a. Biopharmaceuticals are typically taken orally, while traditional smallmolecule drugs require injection or infusion.
b. Traditional small-molecule drugs are derived from living organisms,
while biopharmaceuticals are chemically synthesized.
c. Biopharmaceuticals are designed to target specific cellular processes
or molecular targets, while traditional small-molecule drugs are not.
d. Biopharmaceuticals are extracted from living organisms, while
traditional small-molecule drugs consist of relatively small,
chemically synthesized molecules.
12. Which of the following is an example of a traditional small-molecule
drug?
a. Aspirin
c. Monoclonal antibodies
b. Insulin
d. Vaccines
13. Which of the following is an example of a biopharmaceutical?
a. Antacids
c. Insulin
b. Antibiotics
d. Statins
14. Why are biopharmaceuticals often injected or infused?
a. Because they cannot be chemically synthesized
b. Because they are less effective when taken orally
c. Because they are too expensive to be taken orally
d. Because they need to be delivered directly into the bloodstream or
affected tissues.
15. What is the main source of biopharmaceuticals?
a. Living organisms
b. Chemical synthesis
c. Genetic modification
d. Inorganic compounds
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REFERENCES:
Encyclopedia Britannica. (n.d.). Pharmacology. In Encyclopedia Britannica.
Retrieved
March
12,
2023,
from
https://www.britannica.com/science/pharmacology
Frontline Medical and Surgical Practice Journal. (n.d.). About the Journal.
Retrieved
March
12,
2023,
from
https://frontlinejournals.org/journals/index.php/fmspj/about
KidsHealth. (n.d.). Prescription drug abuse. Retrieved March 10, 2023, from
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/meds.html
18 | P a g e
Medical
News
Today.
(2021,
July
26).
What
is
medicine?
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323679
National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Medicine. In NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms.
Retrieved
March
10,
2023,
from
https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancerterms/def/medicine
Operative Neurosurgery. (n.d.). Medication. Retrieved March 12, 2023, from
https://operativeneurosurgery.com/doku.php?id=medication
Study.com. (n.d.). Medicine: History & Development. Retrieved March 10,
2023,
from
https://study.com/learn/lesson/medicine-history-
development.html#:~:text=Modern%20medicine%20has%20evolved%2
0from,%2C%20procedures%2C%20and%20religious%20beliefs.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022, January 11). How drugs are
developed
and
approved.
Retrieved
March
12,
2023,
from
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/development-approval-process-drugs/howdrugs-are-developed-and-approved
Module
2
The use of drugs for medical purposes is an essential aspect of modern
healthcare. However, the availability and use of drugs need to be regulated
to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.
This is where the drug
classification system comes into play. In many countries, drugs are classified
into prescription and over-the-counter categories, based on their potential
risks and benefits.
19 | P a g e
Prescription drugs can only be dispensed with a valid
prescription from a licensed healthcare provider, while OTC drugs can be
purchased without a prescription. This system helps to ensure that patients
receive appropriate treatment for their medical conditions while minimizing
the risk of adverse effects and abuse. In this context, we will explore the drug
classification system and its significance in ensuring patient safety and
effective treatment.
At the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
1.
differentiate prescription drugs from over-the-counter drugs;
2.
give examples of prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs;
3.
give the benefits, risks, and regulation of prescription drugs and
over-the-counter drugs; and
4.
give possible ways to reduce the negative side effects of medicines in
our environment.
PRESCRIPTION DRUGS
Prescription
medicines
are
medications
aimed
to
target
specific
symptoms or illnesses, which require physician care and/or supervision.
Doctors use prescriptions to prevent drug misuse, such as over usage, reselling, or replication, and are often required when purchasing at a pharmacy
or dispensary.
A prescription medicine is a medicine that can only be made available to
a patient on the written instruction of an authorized health professional.
Examples of prescription medicines include blood pressure tablets, cancer
medicine and strong painkillers. (www.tga.gov.au)
20 | P a g e
The symbol ℞, commonly written as
"Rx", is used as a shorthand for the word
"prescription". This symbol is derived from
the Latin word "recipe", which means "take"
and is often followed by instructions for
preparing a medication.
When a patient
receives a prescription drug, they are
typically given a monograph, which may be called a Patient Information Leaflet
(PIL) in Europe.
This document provides detailed information about the
medication and its proper use.
Prescription drugs are:

Prescribed by a doctor

Bought at a pharmacy

Prescribed for and intended to be used by one person

Regulated by FDA through the New Drug Application (NDA) process.
This is the formal step a drug sponsor takes to ask that the FDA consider
approving a new drug for marketing in the United States.
An NDA
includes all animal and human data and analyses of the data, as well as
information about how the drug behaves in the body and how it is
manufactured. (www.fda.gov)
Why is a medicine prescription only?
A medicine is classified as prescription only because of various factors,
including:

the risk associated with its use

how it is to be taken (e.g. if it is to be injected)

the potential for misuse
21 | P a g e
LEARNING TASK 1. Analyze the pictures below and give reasons why they
are considered Prescription Drugs. Write your answer on a separate sheet of
paper.
Prescription drug abuse refers to the use of a prescription medication in
a manner that is not consistent with the directions of the prescriber. This can
range from taking someone else's pain medication for one's own pain to
ingesting pills in non-prescribed ways, such as snorting or injecting them to
achieve a high. The problem of prescription drug abuse is on the rise and
affects individuals of all ages, including teenagers.
The prescription
medications most frequently misused are opioid painkillers, anti-anxiety
drugs, sedatives, and stimulants. It is essential to identify prescription drug
abuse early on and intervene as soon as possible to prevent it from
progressing into an addiction. (www.mayoclinic.org)
22 | P a g e
10 Commonly Prescribed Medicines from Around the World
1. Hydrocodone
Hydrocodone is widely known as the
active ingredient for prescription pain
relievers. Hydrocodone is usually
prescribed as a last resort because it
can lead to addiction. Because it is
addictive, the drug is subject to a
written controlled prescription from a
doctor every time it has to be filled.
2.
Metformin
It is a prescribed medicine
used to treat type 2 diabetes
and even prevent it if
someone is at a high risk of
developing the disease by
lowering blood sugar levels.
3. Losartan
It is used to treat high blood
pressure
by
blocking
a
substance in the body that
causes the blood vessels to
tighten.
Losartan
also
lowers the risk of stroke in
patients
23 | P a g e
with
high
blood
pressure and cardiomegaly or enlarged heart. Type 2 diabetes patients
and those with a history of hypertension also take it to address kidney
problems.
4. Antibiotics
These are prescribed
medicines that fight
off bacterial
infections. First
discovered in 1928
by
Alexander
Fleming, this drug kills bacteria and eradicates them from the body.
Viral infections like colds, runny noses, most sore throats (except strep
throat), flu, and bronchitis cannot be treated with antibiotics. When not
needed, misused, or not fully used according to prescription, antibiotics
can do more harm than
good and produce side
effects.
5. Albuterol
This medicine prevents
and treats breathing
difficulties, wheezing,
coughing, and other related conditions caused by lung diseases like
asthma. It relaxes the air passages and opens them up to make
breathing easier.
24 | P a g e
6. Antihistamines
These are commonly used to
treat allergies and symptoms
such as sneezing and rashes.
Allergies happen when the
body reacts to a “foreign
substance” and activates its
defense mechanism, including histamine. The drugs are also used to
treat various conditions such as colds, stomach problems, and anxiety.
7. Gabapentin
It is an antiepileptic/anticonvulsant drug used with other medications
to prevent and control
seizures.
It is taken
orally with or without
food.
usually
Doctors would
prescribe
patient
to
take
the
it
regularly to maximize
its benefits.
Patients
are also advised to stop taking gabapentin only with a doctor’s
approval.
8. Omeprazole
25 | P a g e
This
medication
is
usually prescribed to
someone
experiencing
gastroesophageal
reflux
disease
(GERD) and erosive
esophagitis.
GERD
is a condition where too much acid is in the stomach, causing
symptoms such as belching or burping, heartburn, indigestion, and
even flatulence (farting). It is omeprazole’s job to reduce the acidity
in the stomach and help heal the esophagus and stomach from acid
damage.
9. Levothyroxine
It is used to treat an
underactive thyroid
gland condition called
hypothyroidism.
Thyroid hormones
are essential to the
body’s every cell and organ because they regulate the rate at which
calories are burned, affecting both weight loss and weight gain.
Thyroid hormones also regulate the heartbeat, control the way
muscles contract, and influence the rate of how fast dying cells are
replaced. Levothyroxine is taken to make up or replace the missing
thyroid hormone called thyroxine.
26 | P a g e
10. Atorvastatin
This is prescribed to
reduce the risk of a
heart attack.
This
drug is also used to
decrease
the
chances
of
undergoing
surgery.
heart
Moreover,
atorvastatin is used to lower the levels of fatty substances like lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol and triglycerides in the
blood with the goal of increasing the good cholesterol or highdensity lipoprotein (HDL).
WAYS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF DRUG MISUSE
1. Make sure you're getting the right medicine. Make sure your health
care provider clearly understands your condition and the signs and
symptoms. Tell your health care provider about all your prescriptions,
as well as over-the-counter medicines, herbs and supplements, and
alcohol and other drug use. Ask your doctor whether there's another
medicine with ingredients that have less potential for addiction.
2. Check in with your health care provider. Talk with your health care
provider on a regular basis to make sure that the medicine is working
and you're taking the right dose.
3. Follow directions carefully.
Use your medicine the way it was
prescribed. Don't stop or change the dose of a drug on your own if it
doesn't seem to be working without talking to your health care
provider. For example, if you're taking a pain medicine that isn't
adequately controlling your pain, don't take more.
27 | P a g e
4. Know what your medicine does.
Ask your health care provider or
pharmacist about the effects of your medicine, so you know what to expect.
Also check if other drugs, over-the-counter products or alcohol should be
avoided when taking this medicine.
5. Never use another person's prescription. Everyone is different. Even if you
have a similar medical condition, it may not be the right medicine or dose
for you.
6. Don't order prescriptions online unless they're from a trustworthy
pharmacy.
Some websites sell counterfeit prescription and over-the-
counter drugs that could be dangerous.
LEARNING TASK 2. Match the items in Column A with the corresponding
items in Column B. Write the letter of your answer on a separate sheet of
paper.
A
B
___1. a cough suppressant and a pain reliever
a. Albuterol
___2. used to treat type 2 diabetes
b. Antihistamines
___3. used to treat high blood pressure
c. Antibiotics
___4. fight off bacterial infections
d. Atorvastatin
___5. prevents and treats breathing
e. Losartan
difficulties, wheezing, coughing
f. Gabapentin
caused by asthma
g. Hydrocodone
___6. used to treat allergies and symptoms
such as sneezing and rashes
___7. antiepileptic/anticonvulsant drug
h. Levothyroxine
i. Metformin
j. Omeprazole
used with other medications to prevent and control seizures
___8. reduce the acidity in the stomach
___9. used to treat an underactive thyroid gland condition called
hypothyroidism
28 | P a g e
___10. used to treat high cholesterol
OVER-THE-COUNTER DRUGS (OTC)
Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are those that can be sold directly to
people without a prescription. OTC medicines treat a variety of illnesses and
their symptoms including pain, coughs and colds, diarrhea, constipation, acne,
and others. Some OTC medicines have active ingredients with the potential
for misuse at higher-than-recommended dosages. (nida.nih.gov)
Typically, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are regulated based on their
active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), rather than their final product. By
regulating APIs instead of specific drug formulations, governments allow
manufacturers the freedom to formulate ingredients, or combinations of
ingredients, into proprietary mixtures. (https://dbpedia.org)
Examples Of Over-The-Counter Drugs:
Medicines that can help with headache, arthritis pain, sprains, and other
minor joint and muscle problems.
1. Acetaminophen – use for pain. DO NOT take more than 3 grams (3,000
mg) on any one day. Large amounts can harm your liver. Remember
that 3 grams is about the same as 6 extra-strength pills or 9 regular
pills.
2. Nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory
drugs
(NSAIDs)
–
examples
are
ibuprofen and naproxen.
Medicines that help reduce fever in children and adults. Know how much
you or your child weighs before giving these medicines.
29 | P a g e
3. Acetaminophen – take every 4 to 6 hours.
4. Ibuprofen - take every 6 to 8 hours. DO NOT use ibuprofen in children
younger than 6 months.
Medicines for cold, sore throat, cough
Cough medicines:
5. Guaifenesin - Helps break up mucus. Drink lots of fluids if you take this
medicine.
6. Menthol throat lozenges - Soothes "tickle" in the throat (Halls,
Robitussin, and Vicks).
7. Liquid cough medicines with dextromethorphan - Suppresses the urge
to cough (Benylin, Delsym, Robitussin DM, Simply Cough, Vicks 44, and
store brands).
Decongestants:
8. Oral decongestants – Pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine
9. Decongestant nasal sprays – Oxymetazoline , phenylephrine
* Decongestants help clear a runny nose and relieve postnasal drip.
* Decongestant nasal sprays may work more quickly, but they can have a
rebound effect if you use them for more than 3 to 5 days. Your symptoms
may get worse if you keep using these sprays.
Sore Throat Medicines
10. Dyclonine (Cepacol); phenol (Chloraseptic)- Spray to numb pain
RISKS IN TAKING OTC MEDICINES:
30 | P a g e
 The medicine you are taking could interact with other medicines,
supplements, foods, or drinks
 Some medicines are not right for people with certain medical conditions.
For example, people with high blood pressure should not take certain
decongestants.
 Some people are allergic to certain medicines
 Many medicines are not safe during pregnancy. If you are pregnant,
check with your health care provider before taking any medicine.
 Be careful when giving medicines to children. Make sure that you give
your child the correct dose.
If you are giving your child a liquid
medicine, don't use a kitchen spoon. Instead, use a measuring spoon
or a dosing cup marked in teaspoons.
LEARNING TASK 3.
Read each statement carefully. Write "True" if the
statement is correct and "False" if otherwise on a separate sheet of paper.
__________ 1. Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are only sold with a
prescription.
__________ 2. Acetaminophen can harm your liver if taken in large amounts.
__________ 3. It is safe to use decongestant nasal sprays for more than 5
days in a row.
__________ 4. You should use a kitchen spoon to measure liquid medicine
for your child.
__________ 5. It is safe to take any over-the-counter medicine with other
medicines, supplements, foods, or drinks.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF MEDICINES: SOURCES AND IMPACTS
31 | P a g e

Medicines enter the environment through human excretions and the
improper disposal of unused or expired drugs.

Sewage treatment plants may not remove all medicines from the water,
which can harm aquatic life and potentially end up in our drinking water
and food.

Pharmaceutical companies can also release medicine pollution into the
environment during manufacturing.

Landfills can also contribute to medicine pollution if drugs are disposed
of improperly, leading to contamination of soil and groundwater.

Proper
disposal
of
medicines
is
important
to
minimize
their
environmental impact and protect human health.

Medicines in the environment can harm organisms living in aquatic
systems by disturbing their growth, behavior, and reproduction.

An experiment showed that certain concentrations of antidepressants in
water made male fish more aggressive, leading to more female deaths
and fewer eggs being laid.

Medicines in the environment may contribute to the rise in antibioticresistant bacteria, which can be harmful to humans.
32 | P a g e
It is important to prevent medicines from reaching the environment to avoid
harming animals and humans.
Figure 1. Routes of pharmaceuticals entering the environment
Source : https://www.embopress.org/
LEARNING TASK 4. List five possible ways to reduce the negative impact of
medicines on the environment. Write it on a separate sheet of paper.
LEARNING TASK 5. Place the corresponding number in the correct section
of the Venn diagram based on the description given for each type of
medication (Over-the-counter or Prescription). Write it on a separate sheet of
paper.
1. Medications aimed to target specific symptoms or illnesses
2. Medicine that can only be made available to a patient on the written
instruction of an authorized health professional
3. Can be sold directly to people without a prescription
33 | P a g e
4. Drugs that are regulated based on their active pharmaceutical
ingredient (API)
5. Drugs can have potential side effects and risks, which may vary
depending on the individual and the medication
6. Drugs which are regulated by the FDA in the United States to ensure
safety and efficacy
7. Losartan
8. Metformin
9. Antibiotics
10. Decongestant
OTC
BOTH
PRESCRIPTION
ASSESSMENT
I. Directions : Read the questions carefully and write the letter of the correct
answer on a separate sheet of paper.
1. What are prescription drugs?
A) Over-the-counter medications
B) Medications that do not require a doctor's supervision
C) Medications that can be bought at a pharmacy without a
prescription
D) Medications that require a prescription from an authorized health
Professional
34 | P a g e
2. Why are some medicines classified as prescription-only?
A) Because they are expensive
B) Because they are hard to find
C) Because they are not effective
D) Because of the risk associated with their use and potential for
misuse
3. What is prescription drug abuse?
A) The appropriate use of prescription medication
B) The use of prescription medication without a prescription
C) The use of over-the-counter medication in a manner that is not
consistent with the directions on the label
D) The use of prescription medication in a manner that is not
consistent with the directions of the prescriber
4. What are some ways that medicines enter the environment?
A) Both A and B
B) None of the above
C) Through human excretions
D) Improper disposal of unused or expired drugs
5. What is the potential harm of medicines not being removed from
water in sewage treatment plants?
A) No harm
B) Both A and B
C) Harm to aquatic life only
D) Harm to humans who drink the water
6. What is metformin used for?
A) Relieving pain
B) Treating high blood pressure
C) Fighting off bacterial infections
35 | P a g e
D) Treating type 2 diabetes and preventing it
7. What is Losartan used for?
A) Relieving pain
B) Treating high blood pressure
C) Fighting off bacterial infections
D) Treating type 2 diabetes and preventing it
8. What are antibiotics used for?
A ) Relieving pain
B) Treating high blood pressure
C) Fighting off bacterial infections
D) Treating type 2 diabetes and preventing it
9. You have a headache and want to take something to relieve the pain.
Which of the following is an OTC drug that can help?
A. Acetaminophen
B. Codeine
C. Morphine
D. Oxycodone
10. What are antihistamines used for?
A) Relieving pain
B) Fighting off bacterial infections
C) Preventing and treating breathing difficulties caused by lung
diseases like asthma
D) Treating allergies and other conditions such as colds, stomach
problems, and anxiety
36 | P a g e
II. TRUE or FALSE. Write TRUE if the statement is correct and FALSE if
incorrect. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.
_____________ 1. Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines can be sold
without a prescription.
_____________ 2. OTC medicines can be harmful if taken at higherthan-recommended dosages.
_____________ 3. Ibuprofen can be used in children younger than 6
months.
_____________ 4. Decongestant nasal sprays can be used for more
than 3 to 5 days without risk of a rebound effect.
_____________ 5. Sore throat medicines with Dyclonine and phenol
help to numb pain.
37 | P a g e
REFERENCES
Iglesias-Ara A, Zenarruzabeitia O, Ochoa MC, Rodriguez-Ruiz ME, Larrinaga
G, Errarte P, Perez I, Bilbao FJ, de la Fuente JM (2007). "Proteomic
analysis of microdissected prostate tissue samples discriminates tumor
from
non-tumor
tissue".
EMBO
reports
8
(5):
418–23.
doi:10.1038/sj.embor.7400934. PMID 17401409.
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021, March 11). Prescription drug abuse. Mayo Clinic.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prescription-drugabuse/symptoms-causes/syc-20376813
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021, June 2). Over-the-Counter
Medicines.
Retrieved
March
13,
2023,
from
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/over-countermedicines
National Library of Medicine. (2021, August 2). Hyperthyroidism. MedlinePlus.
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002208.htm
National Library of Medicine. (2021, August 23). Over-the-counter medicines.
MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/overthecountermedicines.html
Rocha-Santos, T., Duarte, A. C., & Benoliel, M. J. (2019). Medicines in the
Environment: Risks and Impacts. Frontiers for Young Minds, 7, 81. doi:
10.3389/frym.2019.00081
Therapeutic
Goods
Administration.
(2022,
February
9).
Prescription
medicines: Overview. Australian Government Department of Health.
38 | P a g e
https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/resource/guidance/prescriptionmedicines-overview
Thompson, P. L., Stenson, A., & Luterbacher, M. C. (2005). Pharmaceuticals
and personal care products: Targets for reducing environmental
impacts?
Journal
of
Cleaner
Production,
13(9),
795-809.
doi:
10.1016/j.jclepro.2004.11.004
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021, January 29). Prescription drugs
and
over-the-counter
(OTC)
drugs:
Questions
and
answers.
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/frequently-asked-questions-populartopics/prescription-drugs-and-over-counter-otc-drugs-questions-andanswers
Unilab.
(n.d.).
Amoclav
https://www.unilab.com.ph/products/amoclav-suspension
39 | P a g e
Suspension.
Module
3
This module covers cancer-related topics such as the definition of cancer
and the differences between cancer cells and normal cells. It also explains
how cancer develops and how cancer spreads. Additionally, it covers different
types of carcinogens and anticancer drugs.
At the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
1. explain what cancer is;
2. describe how carcinogens cause cancer; and
3. give the common anticancer drugs.
Pre-Assessment
Directions: Read the questions and choose the best answer for each question.
Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.
1. What is cancer?
a. A disease that affects the heart
b. A disease that affects the digestive system
c. A disease characterized by normal cell growth
d. A disease characterized by abnormal cell growth
2. What are the characteristics of cancerous tumors?
a. They are harmless
b. They are always benign
c. They do not spread to other parts of the body
d. They can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the
body.
40 | P a g e
3. What are the differences between cancer cells and normal cells?
a. Normal cells can hide from the immune system
b. Normal cells require different types of nutrients than cancer cells
c. Cancer cells don't respond to signals that normally tell cells to stop
dividing or die
d. Cancer cells grow without the signals that would normally tell
normal cells to grow
4. How does cancer develop?
a. Due to a viral infection
b. Due to a bacterial infection
c. Due to an autoimmune disorder
d. Due to changes or alterations in genes
5. What are the causes of genetic changes that lead to cancer?
a. All of the above
b. Inherited from parents
c. Errors that occur as cells divide
d. Exposure to harmful substances in the environment
6. What is metastatic cancer?
a. A type of cancer that is not harmful
b. A type of cancer that is always benign
c. A type of cancer that affects only one part of the body
d. A type of cancer that has spread to another part of the body
7. How many types of cancer are there?
a. Over 50
b. Over 100
c. Over 500
d. Over 1000
8. What is carcinoma?
a. A type of cancer that starts in the lungs
41 | P a g e
b. A type of cancer that starts in the bone marrow
c. A type of cancer that starts in bone and soft tissues
d. A type of cancer that forms in cells covering the body's surfaces
9. What is sarcoma?
a. A type of cancer that starts in the lungs
b. A type of cancer that starts in the bone marrow
c. A type of cancer that starts in bone and soft tissues
d. A type of cancer that forms in cells covering the body's surfaces
10. What is leukemia?
a. A type of cancer that starts in the lungs
b. A type of cancer that starts in the bone marrow
c. A type of cancer that starts in bone and soft tissues
d. A type of cancer that forms in cells covering the body's surfaces
WHAT IS CANCER?
Cancer refers to any one of a large number of diseases characterized by
the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and have the
ability to infiltrate and destroy normal body tissue. It often has the ability to
spread throughout your body.It is a disease that can arise in any part of the
human body, which is composed of billions of cells.
Under normal
circumstances, human cells reproduce and multiply via cell division,
generating new cells that the body requires. However, when cells reach a
certain age or become damaged, they undergo cell death, allowing new cells
to replace them.
Occasionally, this organized system becomes disrupted, leading to the
growth and multiplication of defective or damaged cells when they shouldn't.
42 | P a g e
Such cells can congregate to create lumps of tissue referred to as tumors.
These tumors can either be cancerous or non-cancerous (benign).
Cancerous tumors have the ability to invade nearby tissues and
metastasize, creating new tumors in distant parts of the body. These tumors
are often referred to as malignant tumors. While many cancers give rise to
solid tumors, blood cancers, such as leukemias, usually do not.
Unlike cancerous tumors, benign tumors do not infiltrate or spread into
surrounding tissues.
If they are removed, benign tumors typically do not
reappear, although they can grow to be very large.
Nevertheless, some
benign tumors may cause severe symptoms or pose a risk to life, such as
tumors found in the brain.
Differences Between Cancer Cells and Normal Cells
Cancer cells differ from normal cells in many ways. For instance, cancer cells:
1)
Cancer cells grow without the signals that would normally tell normal
cells to grow.
2)
Cancer cells don't respond to signals that normally tell cells to stop
dividing or die, which is called programmed cell death (apoptosis).
3)
Cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of
the body. In contrast, normal cells stop growing when they come into
contact with other cells, and they don't move around the body much.
4)
Cancer cells can signal blood vessels to grow toward tumors, which
provides tumors with oxygen and nutrients while removing waste
products from tumors.
5)
Cancer cells can hide from the immune system, which is meant to
eliminate abnormal or damaged cells.
6)
Some cancer cells can manipulate the immune system into supporting
the tumor's growth, rather than attacking it.
43 | P a g e
7)
Cancer cells may accumulate changes in their chromosomes, such as
duplication or deletion of parts of chromosomes. Some cancer cells
have twice as many chromosomes as normal cells.
8)
Cancer cells require different types of nutrients than normal cells and
may generate energy differently. This enables cancer cells to grow
more quickly than normal cells.
LEARNING TASK 1. Write three (3) descriptions of Normal Cells and Cancer
Cells. Write them inside the box.
Normal Cells
Cancer Cells
HOW DOES CANCER DEVELOP?
Cancer is a type of disease that has a genetic basis. This means that
changes or alterations in genes can cause cancer to develop.
Genes are
responsible for controlling how our cells function, including how they grow and
divide.
Any changes that occur in these genes can disrupt their normal
function and lead to uncontrolled cell growth and division, resulting in the
development of cancerous tumors.
44 | P a g e
Genetic changes that cause cancer can happen because:
 of errors that occur as cells divide
 of damage to DNA caused by
harmful
substances
in
the
environment, such as the chemicals
in tobacco smoke and ultraviolet
rays from the sun.
 they
were
inherited
from
our
parents.
WHEN CANCER SPREADS
Metastatic cancer is a type
of cancer that has spread
from
the
original
site
where it first formed to
another part of the body.
This
process
is
called
metastasis, and it occurs
when cancer cells break
away from the
primary
tumor and travel through
the
bloodstream
or
lymphatic system to other
organs and tissues in the body.
The metastatic cancer cells have the same name and type as the original
cancer, even though they are now growing in a different part of the body. For
example, breast cancer that spreads to the lung is still considered breast
cancer, not lung cancer.
45 | P a g e
TYPES OF CANCER
Cancer is a complex disease with over 100 different types, and each
type is named after the organ or tissue where it originates. For example, lung
cancer starts in the lungs, and brain cancer starts in the brain. The name of
the cancer can also describe the type of cell that formed it, such as epithelial
or squamous cells.
This naming system helps doctors understand the
characteristics of the cancer, such as its behavior and how it responds to
different treatments.
1. CARCINOMA - Carcinomas are a common type of
cancer that start in
cells covering the body's
surfaces. They can begin in different types of cells
and have specific names. Adenocarcinoma starts
in glandular tissues and is often found in organs
like the breast and prostate. Basal cell carcinoma
forms in the skin's outer layer, while squamous cell
carcinoma forms in the cells just under the skin's
surface.
Transitional cell carcinoma starts in
tissues lining organs like the bladder and kidneys.
2. SARCOMA - Sarcomas are cancers that
form in bone and soft tissues such as
muscles, fat, blood vessels, and fibrous
tissue. Osteosarcoma is the most
common cancer of the bone. The most
common types of soft tissue sarcomas
are
leiomyosarcoma,
malignant
fibrous
liposarcoma, and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
46 | P a g e
Kaposi
sarcoma,
histiocytoma,
3. LEUKEMIA - Leukemia is a
cancer that starts in the bone
marrow and doesn't form solid
tumors.
Instead, abnormal
white blood cells build up in the
blood and bone marrow, which
can cause difficulty for the
body
to
function
properly.
Acute forms grow quickly and chronic forms grow slowly.
4. LYMPHOMA - Lymphoma is
cancer that starts in white blood
cells called lymphocytes.
These
cells are part of the immune
system and can build up in lymph
nodes and other organs.
There
are two main types of lymphoma:
Hodgkin lymphoma, which forms
from abnormal B cells called Reed-Sternberg cells, and non-Hodgkin
lymphoma, which is a large group of cancers that can form from B cells or
T cells and can grow at different rates.
4. MULTIPLE MYELOMA - Multiple
myeloma is a type of cancer that
starts in plasma cells, which are a
type
of
immune
cell.
The
cancerous cells build up in the
bone marrow and form tumors in
47 | P a g e
bones throughout the body.
It's also called plasma cell myeloma or
Kahler disease.
5. MELANOMA - Melanoma is
a type of cancer that starts
in cells called melanocytes,
which produce a pigment
called melanin that gives
color to the skin. Melanoma
usually forms on the skin,
but can also develop in other
pigmented tissues, such as the eye.
6. BRAIN
AND
SPINAL
CORD
TUMORS - There are various types of
tumors that can form in the brain and
spinal cord. These tumors are classified
by the type of cell they originate from
and
where
they
first
developed.
Astrocytic tumors, for instance, begin in
a type of brain cell called astrocytes,
which support nerve cells. Brain tumors
can either be benign or malignant
(cancerous).
LEARNING TASK 2. TRUE or FALSE. Read each statement carefully and
indicate whether it is true or false. Write your answer on a separate sheet of
paper.
___________ 1. Cancer is a simple disease with only a few types that can be
easily treated.
48 | P a g e
___________ 2. Metastasis is when cancer cells break away from the primary
tumor and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic
system to other organs and tissues in the body.
___________ 3. Melanoma is a skin cancer.
___________ 4. Multiple myeloma starts in white blood cells called
lymphocytes.
___________ 5. All types of cancer form solid tumors.
CARCINOGEN
A carcinogen is a substance that can cause cancer, but not everyone
exposed to a carcinogen will develop cancer. Factors like the amount and
length of exposure, and a person's genetics can influence whether cancer will
develop. People who are exposed to environmental carcinogens involuntarily,
like some workers in certain industries, are more likely to develop cancer.
Common Carcinogens You Should Know
1. Tobacco - Both smoking and exposure to
secondhand
damaging
smoke
DNA
carcinogenic
can
with
chemicals
cause
at
least
found
cancer
70
in
by
known
tobacco.
Smokeless tobacco may also lead to cancer, and
even light smoking increases the
developing cancer.
49 | P a g e
risk of
2. Radon - is a gas that is usually
harmless when present in small
quantities
in
the
However,
when
it
environment.
accumulates
indoors and you inhale it, it can
damage your lung lining and is the
primary cause of lung cancer in
people who do not smoke. Radon is odorless and invisible, but you can
measure its levels in your home using a specific test.
3. Asbestos - is a strong material
commonly
used
in
building
products such as roof shingles
and ceiling tiles.
However, if
the tiny fibers break free and
are inhaled, they can become
lodged in the lungs and are
known to be cancer-causing
agents.
4. Crispy,
Brown Foods
-
Acrylamide,
a
chemical that may cause cancer, can be
released from some vegetables, such as
potatoes, when they are cooked at high
temperatures.
suggests
that
Although research on rats
acrylamide
may
be
a
carcinogen for humans, more research is
needed to understand the effects. To reduce
exposure, you can cook foods until they are a
lighter color and be aware that acrylamide is also present in some
products and tobacco smoke.
50 | P a g e
5. Formaldehyde - Formaldehyde is a
chemical found in various household
products including plywood and fabrics
that has been linked to cancer based on
studies conducted on lab rats and
people who are exposed to it at their
jobs.
6.
Ultraviolet Rays - UV rays
from the sun and tanning beds can
damage the cells in your skin,
leading to skin cancer, according to
studies.
Pollution
and
climate
change contribute to the intensity of
these rays, so it's important to
protect your skin with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses and avoid
tanning salons to stay safe.
7. Alcohol - The risk of developing
certain types of cancer, including
head
and
breast,
neck,
liver,
esophageal,
and
colorectal,
increases with the amount of
alcohol
you
consume.
The
carcinogenic chemicals that are
produced
during
the
manufacturing of beer, wine, and liquor may be one reason for this. To
reduce the risk, experts recommend that women consume no more than
one alcoholic drink per day, and men consume no more than two.
51 | P a g e
8. Processed Meat - Consuming
preserved or flavored meats like
bacon,
salami,
sausage,
and
pepperoni can increase the risk of
colon cancer according to analysis
of over 800 studies by experts.
It's okay to have a hot dog
occasionally, but it's important to
limit intake of processed meat as much as possible. Avoid foods that
have been salted, cured, fermented, or smoked.
9.
Engine
Exhaust
-
Diesel fuel is used in various
modes of transportation such
as trucks, buses, trains, and
certain
cars.
produced
from
The
exhaust
these
diesel
engines contains gas and soot
that are believed to be a cause
of lung cancer and other types of cancer. It is recommended to avoid
idling in traffic or staying close to diesel-run vehicles as much as
possible. For those who work with diesel engines, it is advised to follow
the appropriate workplace safety guidelines to minimize the health risks.
10.
Pollution - Experts have found that outdoor air pollution, in
addition to exhaust, contains cancer-causing substances such as dust,
metals, and solvents. This conclusion is based on analyzing data from
more than 1.2 million individuals throughout the United States. While
52 | P a g e
it
is
impossible
entirely
pollution,
to
avoid
you
can
take action to reduce
your contribution to
it.
Consider walking
or biking instead of
driving, and follow local public health recommendations to stay indoors
during times of poor air quality.
LEARNING TASK 3. List down some ways that you can do to prevent
exposure to carcinogens. Write your answer on your paper.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
ANTICANCER DRUGS
Anticancer drug, also called antineoplastic drug, is any drug that is
effective in the treatment of malignant, or cancerous, disease.
This drug have different ways of working and can affect both cancerous
and normal cells. Since there are many
types of cancer and limited biochemical
differences
between
cancerous
and
normal cells, finding a single "cure" for
cancer has been challenging.
The
effectiveness of many anticancer drugs
53 | P a g e
is limited by their toxicity to normal rapidly growing cells and the potential for
cancerous cells to develop resistance to a specific drug. Therefore,
combination chemotherapy with several drugs for varying periods of time may
be necessary.
Cancer drugs can be used alone or together with other treatments like
radiation therapy, depending on the person's health and the stage of their
cancer. Doctors will determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each
individual.
COMMON TYPES OF ANTICANCER DRUGS

Alkylating Agents - they work by damaging the DNA of cancer cells
to prevent them from dividing.

Nitrosoureas - they work by attaching themselves to DNA strands in
cancer cells, this prevents them from dividing.

Antimetabolites - they work by convincing cancer cells to consume
them and then preventing their division into new cells.

Anti-Tumor Antibiotics - are chemicals that interfere with enzymes
that support growth in cancer cells.

Plant Alkaloids - are drugs that come from plants and have antitumor properties.

Corticosteroids - are synthetic versions of naturally occurring
hormones that can reduce inflammation and treat cancer.
Alternative options for cancer treatment:
1. Targeted therapies are a type of cancer treatment that work by
stopping the proteins that help cancer cells grow, divide and spread in
the body.
These therapies can be used to treat different types of
cancer and can be helpful in many ways.
54 | P a g e
2. Immunotherapy is a treatment that helps the immune system fight
cancer cells by identifying and attacking them. The immune system
normally kills abnormal cells in the body, and with the help of
immunotherapy, it can also attack cancer cells. However, this
treatment may cause flu-like symptoms or skin reactions at the
injection site.
3. Radiation therapy is a treatment for cancer that involves high doses
of radiation. It aims to destroy cancer cells and reduce the size of
tumors. Radiation can come from a machine outside the body or a
device that's placed inside the body. However, this treatment can
cause side effects such as feeling tired or having irritated skin.
4. Surgery is done to take out a cancerous tumor. This is usually when
the cancer has not spread to other parts of the body and is confined to
one area.
Side Effects Of Anticancer Drugs



Anemia
Hair loss
Constipation


Diarrhea
Difficulty
breathing



Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
LEARNING TASK 4. Answer the question below in essay form. Write your
answer on a separate sheet of paper.
What do you think is the best Anticancer Drug and why?
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
55 | P a g e
ASSESSMENT
Directions: Read the questions carefully and choose the letter of the correct
answer. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.
1. What is cancer?
A. A type of virus
B. A genetic disorder
C. A disease caused by bacteria
D. A disease characterized by abnormal cell growth
2) What is the difference between cancerous and benign tumors?
A. Cancerous tumors can be removed, while benign tumors cannot.
B. Benign tumors are always life-threatening, while cancerous
tumors are not.
C. Cancerous tumors do not infiltrate surrounding tissues, while
benign tumors do.
D. Benign tumors can spread to other parts of the body, while
cancerous tumors do not.
3) Which of the following statements is true about cancer cells?
A. Cancer cells do not require any nutrients to survive.
B. Cancer cells grow in response to signals that tell normal cells to
grow.
C. Cancer cells cannot manipulate the immune system to support
their growth.
D. Cancer cells require different types of nutrients than normal cells
and may generate energy differently.
4) How do cancer cells differ from normal cells?
A. Cancer cells do not require any nutrients to grow.
B. Cancer cells respond to signals that tell cells to stop dividing or
die.
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C. Cancer cells do not invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts
of the body.
D. Cancer cells may accumulate changes in their chromosomes, such
as duplication or deletion of parts of chromosomes.
5) What causes genetic changes that lead to cancer?
A. All of the above
B. Inherited from our parents
C. Errors that occur as cells divide
D. Exposure to harmful substances in the environment
6) What is the most common type of cancer that forms in bone and soft
tissues?
A.
Carcinoma
B.
Leukemia
C.
Lymphoma
D.
Sarcoma
7) What type of cancer starts in cells called melanocytes?
A. Carcinoma
B. Lymphoma
C. Melanoma
D. Sarcoma
8) Which of the following is a common carcinogen that can cause lung
cancer?
A. Alcohol
B. Asbestos
C. Processed meat
D. Tobacco
9) What is a carcinogenic chemical that may be released from some
vegetables when they are cooked at high temperatures?
A. Acrylamide
57 | P a g e
B. Asbestos
C. Formaldehyde
D. Radon
10)
Which type of meat should be limited as much as possible to
reduce the risk of colon cancer?
11)
12)
A.
Fresh meat
B.
Organic meat
C.
Flavored meat
D.
Preserved meat
What is the purpose of anticancer drugs?
A.
To reduce the size of tumors
B.
To improve the immune system
C.
To prevent the development of cancer
D.
To treat malignant or cancerous disease
Which type of anticancer drug works by damaging the DNA of
cancer cells?
A. Alkylating agents
B. Antimetabolites
C. Anti-tumor antibiotics
D. Nitrosoureas
13)
What is the purpose of targeted therapies in cancer treatment?
A. To take out a cancerous tumor
B. To help the immune system fight cancer cells
C. To destroy cancer cells and reduce the size of tumors
D. To stop the proteins that help cancer cells grow, divide,
and spread
14)
Which alternative cancer treatment may cause flu-like symptoms
or skin reactions at the injection site?
A. Immunotherapy
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B. Radiation therapy
C. Surgery
D. Targeted therapies
15)
What is a common side effect of anticancer drugs?
A. Nausea
B. Hair growth
C. Difficulty sleeping
D. Increased appetite
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REFERENCES:
American Cancer Society. (2022, February 1). Known and Probable Human
Carcinogens.
https://www.cancer.org/healthy/cancer-causes/general-
info/known-and-probable-human-carcinogens.html.
CancerCare
Manitoba.
(n.d.).
Chemotherapy.
https://www.cancercare.mb.ca/Treatments/treatments/chemotherapy.
Chin, L., & Gray, J. W. (2007). Translating insights from the cancer genome
into
clinical
practice.
Nature,
44(2),
161–168.
https://doi.org/10.1038/nm1558.
Elsevier
B.V.
(n.d.).
Anticarcinogen.
In
ScienceDirect
Topics.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-anddentistry/anticarcinogen.
Libretexts.
(n.d.).
Anti-Cancer
Drugs
I.
https://chem.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Biological_Chemistry/Supple
mental_Modules_(Biological_Chemistry)/Pharmaceuticals/AntiCancer_Drugs_I.
Mayo
Clinic.
(2022,
January
18).
Cancer.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cancer/symptomscauses/syc-20370588.
Medical News Today. (2021, August 6). Common cancer medications.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/common-cancermedications#common-medications.
60 | P a g e
National Cancer Institute. (2022, January 14). What is Cancer? National
Institutes
of
Health.
https://www.cancer.gov/about-
cancer/understanding/what-is-cancer.
National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2021). Carcinogen. In
Genetic
Science
Learning
Center.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK53010/.
National Human Genome Research Institute. (n.d.). Carcinogen. In Genetics
Home
Reference
Glossary.
https://www.genome.gov/genetics-
glossary/Carcinogen#:~:text=A%20carcinogen%20is%20a%20substa
nce,exhaust%20fumes%20and%20cigarette%20smoke).
Steward, B. W., & Wild, C. P. (Eds.). (2014). World Cancer Report 2014.
World
Health
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK285562/.
61 | P a g e
Organization.
Module
4
The module will cover the basic principles of homeopathy, the
preparation of homeopathic remedies, and their effects on the body. You
will also learn about the importance of quality control in homeopathic
medicine production and the environmental impact of homeopathic
remedies.
By the end of the module, you should have a comprehensive
understanding of the role of chemistry in homeopathic medicine and how it
can enhance the integrity and wellness of the human person while
protecting the environment. This knowledge will help you sustain a quality
life by making informed decisions about your health and well-being.
At the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
1. define homeopathy;
2. explain what science says about homeopathy; and
3. give some side effects of homeopathy.
PRE-ASSESSMENT
Directions: Read the questions carefully and choose the letter of the correct
answer. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.
1. What is homeopathy?
a) A type of surgery
b) A scientific system of medicine
c) A form of conventional medicine
d) A pseudoscientific system of alternative medicine
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2. What is the "law of minimum dose" in homeopathy?
a) The dose of the medication has no effect on its effectiveness
b) The higher the dose of the medication, the greater its
effectiveness
c) The lower the dose of the medication, the greater its
effectiveness
d) The
more
diluted
the
medication,
the
greater
its
effectiveness
3. What are homeopathic remedies made from?
a) Synthetic chemicals
b) Artificial preservatives
c) Chemicals that are harmful to the body
d) Natural sources like plants, minerals, and animals
4. How is the treatment for each person decided in homeopathy?
a) Based on their age
b) Based on their weight
c) Based on their medical history
d) Based on their unique symptoms
5. What is "potentization" in homeopathy?
a) A process of shaking the medication
b) A process of diluting the medication
c) A process of adding water to the medication
d) A process of adding alcohol to the medication
6. What is the belief behind the lower dose of medication in
homeopathy?
a) The lower the dose, the less effective the medicine
b) The lower the dose, the more powerful the medicine
c) The higher the dose, the more powerful the medicine
d) The dose of the medication has no effect on its effectiveness
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7. What conditions is homeopathy used for?
a) All of the above
b) Only acute illnesses
c) Only chronic illnesses
d) Only infectious diseases
8. What did the Australian government's National Health and Medical
Research Council conclude about homeopathy in 2015?
a) It is harmful to the body
b) It is effective for all health conditions
c) It is effective for some health conditions
d) There is no reliable evidence supporting its effectiveness for
any health condition
9. What did a 2012 review of homeopathic products conclude?
a) They are all safe to use
b) They have no effect on the body
c) They are more effective than conventional treatments
d) They can cause adverse effects, some of which may be
serious
10. What has the FDA warned consumers about in regards to
homeopathic products?
a) All of the above
b) Those claiming to cure all health conditions
c) Those not evaluated for safety and effectiveness
d) Those containing excessive amounts of toxic substances
64 | P a g e
What Is Homeopathy?
Homeopathy
pseudoscientific
is
system
alternative medicine.
It is
a
of
also
known as homeopathic medicine, is a
medical system that was developed
in 1796 by the German physician
Samuel Hahnemann.
It’s based on
two unconventional theories:
1. “Like cures like”—the notion that a disease can be cured by a
substance that produces similar symptoms in healthy people.
2. “Law of minimum dose”—the notion that the lower the dose of the
medication, the greater its effectiveness. Many homeopathic products
are so diluted that no molecules of the original substance remain.
How Does It Work?
Homeopathic remedies are made from natural sources like plants,
minerals, and animals.
They can be in different forms like sugar pellets,
creams, and tablets. The treatment for each person is personalized based on
their unique symptoms, so two people with the same condition might get
different treatments.
Homeopathy uses a different system than regular
medicine to figure out what treatment is best for each person. They look for
patterns in symptoms to decide what will work.
Homeopathy believes that the cause of an illness can cure the same
illness in very small doses. For example, a remedy for allergies may contain
red onion, which makes eyes water. Homeopathic doctors make the remedies
65 | P a g e
by adding water or alcohol to ingredients like poison ivy, white arsenic,
crushed whole bees, and an herb called arnica, and then shaking the mixture.
This is called "potentization," and it is believed to transfer the healing
properties. Homeopaths believe that the lower the dose, the more powerful
the medicine, and many of these remedies no longer contain any molecules
of the original substance. The remedies come in a variety of forms, like sugar
pellets, liquid drops, creams, gels, and tablets.
What Conditions Does Homeopathy Treat?
It’s used for a wide variety of health issues, including some chronic
illnesses:

Allergies

Migraines

Depression

Chronic fatigue syndrome

Rheumatoid arthritis

Irritable bowel syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome
LEARNING TASK 1. Fill in the blanks with the correct word for each
statement. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.
1. Homeopathy is a ______ system of alternative medicine.
2. Homeopathy is based on two unconventional theories: "Like cures like"
and ______.
3. Homeopathic remedies are made from natural sources like plants,
minerals, and ______.
4. Homeopathy uses a different system than regular medicine to figure out
what treatment is best for each person based on their ______.
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5. Homeopathy is used for a wide variety of health issues, including
______.
What the Science Says About the Effectiveness of Homeopathy

In 2015, the Australian government's National Health and Medical
Research Council conducted a comprehensive assessment of
evidence on homeopathy and concluded that there is no reliable
evidence supporting its effectiveness for any health condition.

Homeopathy is a controversial topic because some of its key
concepts are not consistent with fundamental scientific concepts.

Homeopathic preparations can be so dilute that the active
ingredient becomes unmeasurable, which makes it challenging to
investigate these products.

Recent research has begun to explore physical attributes of
homeopathic
preparations
to
determine
if
they
can
be
characterized in the future.
What the Science Says About the Safety and Side Effects of
Homeopathy

Some homeopathic products may contain substantial amounts of
active ingredients and can cause side effects or drug interactions.

A 2012 review concluded that using certain homeopathic products
or
replacing
an
effective
conventional
treatment
with
an
ineffective homeopathic one can cause adverse effects, some of
which may be serious.

67 | P a g e
Liquid homeopathic products may contain high levels of alcohol.

Homeopathic practitioners expect some patients to experience
"homeopathic aggravation," but there is not much evidence of this
in clinical studies.

The FDA has warned consumers about certain homeopathic
products, such as those containing excessive amounts of toxic
substances or those not evaluated for safety and effectiveness.
What is the environmental impact on homeopathy?
Homeopathy's
unique
manufacturing
process
generates minimal toxic waste
and allows for a small quantity of
the initial substance to produce
all
required
homeopathic
medicine, making it a renewable
and
sustainable
medicine.
source
of
Homeopathic
remedies have minimal impact on the environment, produce insignificant
waste, and do not deplete natural resources.
This is in stark contrast to
pharmaceutical production and hospitals, which generate significant waste
and
use
hazardous
chemicals
manufacturing processes.
and
complicated
reagents
in
their
As a result, homeopathy offers substantial
opportunities for maintaining ecological balance.
LEARNING TASK 2. Answer the question below and write your insight about
it.
Do you think homeopathy is safe to use?
_____________________________________________________________
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ASSESSMENT:
DIRECTIONS: TRUE or FALSE. Read each statement carefully and indicate
whether it is true or false. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.
1. Homeopathy is a pseudoscientific system of alternative medicine. ____
2. Homeopathy was developed in 1796 by the German physician Samuel
Hahnemann. ____
3. "Like cures like" is one of the unconventional theories that homeopathy
is based on. ____
4. Homeopathic remedies are made from artificial sources. ____
5. The lower the dose of the medication, the greater its effectiveness.
____
6. Homeopathic remedies are personalized based on each person's unique
symptoms. ____
7. Homeopathy believes that the cause of an illness can cure the same
illness in large doses. ____
8. Homeopathic doctors make the remedies by adding water or alcohol to
ingredients like poison ivy, white arsenic, and crushed whole bees, and
then shaking the mixture. ____
9. Homeopaths believe that the lower the dose, the less powerful the
medicine. ____
10.
Homeopathy is effective for treating a wide variety of health
issues. ____
11.
A comprehensive assessment of evidence on homeopathy
conducted by the Australian government's National Health and
Medical Research Council concluded that there is no reliable
evidence supporting its effectiveness for any health condition.
____
69 | P a g e
12.
Homeopathy is not controversial because its key concepts are
consistent with fundamental scientific concepts. ____
13.
Homeopathic preparations can be so dilute that the active
ingredient becomes unmeasurable, which makes it challenging to
investigate these products. ____
14.
Homeopathic products do not cause side effects or drug
interactions. ____
15.
The FDA has warned consumers about certain homeopathic
products that contain excessive amounts of toxic substances or
those not evaluated for safety and effectiveness. ____
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REFERENCES:
Aurum Project. (n.d.). Homeopathy, sustainability & environmental healing.
https://aurumproject.org.au/homeopathy-sustainabilityenvironmentalhealing/#:~:text=In%20ecological%20terms%2C%20homeopathic%2
0remedies,no%20question%20of%20over%2Dconsumption.
Boiron
USA.
(2021).
Homeopathy:
The
greener
way
to
feel
better.
https://www.boironusa.com/homeopathy-the-greener-way-to-feelbetter/
Kassab, S., & Cummings, M. (2019). Homeopathy. In The Palgrave Handbook
of Social Theory in Health, Illness and Medicine (pp. 1-18). Palgrave
Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-73645-7_55
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2022, February
14).
Homeopathy.
Retrieved
March
14,
2023,
from
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/homeopathy
NHS. (2018, July 12). Homeopathy. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/homeopathy/
Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing. (n.d.). What are homeopathic
remedies?
Retrieved
https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healingpractices/homeopathy/what-are-homeopathic-remedies
71 | P a g e
from
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2018, December 18). Homeopathic
Products.
Retrieved
March
14,
2023,
from
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/homeopathicproducts
WebMD. (n.d.). What is Homeopathy? Retrieved March 14, 2023, from
https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-is-homeopathy
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