Ever wonder why drugs are getting such weird names? Because of it, you could easily mistake Domperidone for the popular champagne brand Dom Perignon. The first one is actually a medication that stimulates milk supply in nursing mothers, so you might have surprises.

In fact, the FDA rejects about four out of every 10 name proposals for drugs to prevent their misuse. Manufacturers are just trying to be creative, but this may lead to dangerous mix-ups.

Some weird drug names are justified. Lasix, for instance, stands for LAsts SIX hours. It’s a diuretic that reduces blood pressure and fluid retention.

Whether you’re in the mood for a laugh or looking for more information, you’re in the right place. Here are 10 funny prescription drug names you might not be aware of:

1. Eculizumab

Despite its crazy name, Eculizumab is actually prescribed for serious conditions. It can help with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, and more.

This drug works by preventing red blood cell breakdown. It’s given as an intravenous infusion and carries a myriad of side effects.

2. Perforomist

Contrary to what you might think, the word Perforomist has nothing to do with performance and perfectionism. In fact, it’s one of the most popular COPD medications for people with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The drug can relieve asthma symptoms for as long as 12 hours. It works by relaxing the airways so you can breathe more easily.

In the long run, it may improve lung function and even save your life.

3. Vepoloxamer

Vepoloxamer is prescribed for those with cancer, brain injury, and circulatory system diseases. It has anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, and anti-thrombotic properties, which allows for a wide range of uses.

In clinical trials, this drug reduced cortical lesions by as much as 20 percent. Rats treated with Vepoloxamer experienced major improvements in sensorimotor function.

4. Telaprevir

This drug does have a crazy name, but it’s one of the best treatments for chronic hepatitis C. It works by inhibiting NS3/4A, a serine protease enzyme.

Telaprevir is prescribed to adults with cirrhosis and liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus. This infection affects over 170 million people worldwide. Treatment aims to prevent complications and slow the progression of the disease.

Like most medications, this drug carries potential side effects. Nausea and vomiting, anemia, fatigue, rashes, and itching are just a few to mention.

5. Pancuronium

Pancuronium may sound like a cure-all, but it’s actually one of the three drugs used for lethal injections. It relaxes the muscles, increases heart rate, and raises blood pressure.

Besides being used in euthanasia, this drug is prescribed to those with muscular paralysis. It’s also one of the main chemicals in pediatric anesthesia.

Centuries ago, Efren Saldivar used this chemical during his famous killing spree. The Skin Hunters killed people by giving them Pancuronium.

Considering these facts, it’s no wonder this drug is so controversial. In fact, it has been banned in several European countries over the past few years.

6. Warfarin

The brand name Warfarin makes you think of waffles or warfare. This potent anticoagulant could actually save your life. It protects against stroke and treats serious diseases like pulmonary embolism and deep brain thrombosis.

This medication works by decreasing certain clotting proteins in the blood. It improves circulation and cardiovascular health while preventing future blood clots.

A century ago, Warfarin was used as rat poison. One day, researchers discovered that it could treat life-threatening disorders when used in appropriate doses.

Today, it’s one of the most widely prescribed drugs for heart attack and blood clots.

7. Taltz

This popular drug helps treat psoriatic arthritis and plaque psoriasis. It works by suppressing the immune system and reducing the production of inflammatory chemicals. Psoriasis sufferers inject it under the skin to achieve relief.

Due to its immunosuppressive activity, Taltz weakens your body’s natural defenses. This may increase your risk of disease and infections. That’s why it should only be used once every two to four weeks.

8. Adlyxin

It’s hard to talk about funny prescription drug names without mentioning Adlyxin. Also known as lixisenatide, this medication aids in diabetes management.

It improves glycemic control, keeping your blood sugar levels stable. To reap its benefits, use it as part of a balanced lifestyle. Good nutrition and regular exercise are paramount.

9. Xylometazoline

If you ever used a nasal spray, you’ve probably seen the word Xylometazoline somewhere on the label. This drug reduces inflammation and eases the congestion of nasal passages.

It’s widely prescribed to those with sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, and flu. It works by constricting the large veins in the nose, offering quick relief.

The downside is that it stops working once your body gets used to it.

10. Idebenone

Admit it – Idebenone sounds really cool! You wouldn’t guess it’s one of the best treatments for brain disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. It can even help with heart and liver disorders, Friedreich’s ataxia, and other serious conditions.

Its chemical structure is similar to coenzyme Q-10. Due to its high antioxidant levels, this drug scavenges oxidative damage and protects your brain from free radicals.

What’s up with These Funny Prescription Drug Names?

As you see, it’s nothing funny about these drugs other than their crazy names. However, manufacturers don’t choose these names randomly.

Let’s take fluoxetine, for instance. It’s easier to pronounce this word rather than say N-methyl-3-phenyl-3-[4-(trifluoromethyl)phenoxy]propan-1-amine, which is its active ingredient. This medication is also sold under the brand name Prozac for the same reason.

Another example is Tylenol. This acronym stands for n-aceTYL-para-amino-phENOL.

The popular drug Nystatin was developed in New York. Hence, its name – N.Y. STATIN.

We hope these funny prescription drug names made you smile. For other cool stuff, check out the Science section on our blog. Drop a comment below if you know any other meds with crazy names!