General pharmacology and pharmacokinetics mnemonic

Common cytochrome P450 inhibitors

The mnemonic

SICK FACES

What each word stands for

  • SSulfonamides
  • IIsoniazid
  • CCimetidine
  • KKetoconazole
  • FFluconazole
  • AAcute alcohol use
  • CChloramphenicol
  • EErythromycin
  • SSodium valproate

Why it matters clinically

Inhibitors raise levels of drugs such as warfarin and phenytoin, causing toxicity.

Where it stops being reliable

Omits other important inhibitors such as ciprofloxacin, amiodarone and grapefruit juice; versions differ.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the General pharmacology and pharmacokinetics mnemonic?

SICK FACES. It helps you recall: Common cytochrome P450 inhibitors.

What does "S" stand for?

Sodium valproate

What does "I" stand for?

Isoniazid

What does "C" stand for?

Chloramphenicol

What are all the parts of the SICK FACES mnemonic?

S: Sulfonamides; I: Isoniazid; C: Cimetidine; K: Ketoconazole; F: Fluconazole; A: Acute alcohol use; C: Chloramphenicol; E: Erythromycin; S: Sodium valproate.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to General pharmacology and pharmacokinetics in Pharmacology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Omits other important inhibitors such as ciprofloxacin, amiodarone and grapefruit juice; versions differ.

How is this useful clinically?

Inhibitors raise levels of drugs such as warfarin and phenytoin, causing toxicity.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Pharmacology question about General pharmacology and pharmacokinetics.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.