The WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (aka Essential Medicines List or EML), published by the

World Health Organization The World Health Organization (WHO) is a list of specialized agencies of the United Nations, specialized agency of the United Nations which coordinates responses to international public health issues and emergencies. It is headquartered in Gen ...

(WHO), contains the medications considered to be most effective and safe to meet the most important needs in a

health system A health system, health care system or healthcare system is an organization of people, institutions, and resources that delivers health care services to meet the health needs of target populations. There is a wide variety of health systems aroun ...

. The list is frequently used by countries to help develop their own local lists of essential medicines. , more than 155 countries have created national lists of essential medicines based on the World Health Organization's model list. This includes both developed and developing countries. The list is divided into core items and complementary items. The core items are deemed to be the most

cost-effective Cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) is a form of economic analysis that compares the relative costs and outcomes (effects) of different courses of action. Cost-effectiveness analysis is distinct from cost–benefit analysis, which assigns a monetar ...

options for key health problems and are usable with little additional health care resources. The complementary items either require additional infrastructure such as specially trained

health care providers A health professional, healthcare professional (HCP), or healthcare worker (sometimes abbreviated as HCW) is a provider of health care treatment and advice based on formal training and experience. The field includes those who work as a nurse, phys ...

diagnostic equipment A medical device is any device intended to be used for medical purposes. Significant potential for hazards are inherent when using a device for medical purposes and thus medical devices must be proved safe and effective with reasonable assur ...

or have a lower cost–benefit ratio. About 25% of items are in the complementary list. Some medications are listed as both core and complementary. While most medications on the list are available as generic products, being under

patent A patent is a type of intellectual property that gives its owner the legal right to exclude others from making, using, or selling an invention for a limited period of time in exchange for publishing an sufficiency of disclosure, enabling discl ...

does not preclude inclusion. The first list was published in 1977 and included 208 medications. The WHO updates the list every two years. There are 306 medications in the 14th list in 2005, 410 in the 19th list in 2015, 433 in the 20th list in 2017, 460 in the 21st list in 2019, and 479 in the 22nd list in 2021. Various national lists contain between 334 and 580 medications. The Essential Medicines List (EML) was updated in July 2023 to its 23rd edition. This list contains 1200 recommendations for 591 drugs and 103 therapeutic equivalents. A separate list for children up to 12 years of age, known as the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for Children (EMLc), was created in 2007 and is in its 9th edition. It was created to make sure that the needs of children were systematically considered such as availability of proper

formulations Formulation is a term used in various senses in various applications, both the material and the Abstract object, abstract or wikt:formal, formal. Its fundamental meaning is the putting together of components in appropriate relationships or struc ...

. Everything in the children's list is also included in the main list. The list and notes are based on the 19th to 23rd edition of the main list. Therapeutic alternatives with similar clinical performance are listed for some medicines and they may be considered for national essential medicines lists. The 9th Essential Medicines List for Children was updated in July 2023. Note: An α indicates a medicine is on the complementary list.

Anaesthetics, preoperative medicines and medical gases

General anaesthetics and oxygen

Inhalational medicines

Halothane Halothane, sold under the brand name Fluothane among others, is a general anaesthetic. It can be used to induce or maintain anaesthesia. One of its benefits is that it does not increase the production of saliva, which can be particularly useful ...

Isoflurane Isoflurane, sold under the brand name Forane among others, is a halogenated ether used as a general anesthetic. It can be used to start or maintain anesthesia; however, other medications are often used to start anesthesia, due to airway irritat ...

Nitrous oxide Nitrous oxide (dinitrogen oxide or dinitrogen monoxide), commonly known as laughing gas, nitrous, or factitious air, among others, is a chemical compound, an Nitrogen oxide, oxide of nitrogen with the Chemical formula, formula . At room te ...

Oxygen Oxygen is a chemical element; it has chemical symbol, symbol O and atomic number 8. It is a member of the chalcogen group (periodic table), group in the periodic table, a highly reactivity (chemistry), reactive nonmetal (chemistry), non ...

Sevoflurane Sevoflurane, sold under the brand name Sevorane, among others, is a sweet-smelling, nonflammable, highly fluorinated methyl isopropyl ether used as an inhalational anaesthetic for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia. After desflu ...

Injectable medicines

Ketamine Ketamine is a cyclohexanone-derived general anesthetic and NMDA receptor antagonist with analgesic and hallucinogenic properties, used medically for anesthesia, depression, and pain management. Ketamine exists as its S- (esketamine) a ...

Propofol Propofol is the active component of an intravenous anesthetic formulation used for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia. It is chemically termed 2,6-diisopropylphenol. The formulation was approved under the brand name Diprivan. Nu ...

Thiopental Sodium thiopental, also known as Sodium Pentothal (a trademark of Abbott Laboratories), thiopental, thiopentone, or Trapanal (also a trademark), is a rapid-onset short-acting barbiturate general anesthetic. It is the thiobarbiturate analog ...

Local anaesthetics

Bupivacaine Bupivacaine, marketed under the brand name Marcaine among others, is a medication used to decrease sensation in a specific small area. In nerve blocks, it is injected around a nerve that supplies the area, or into the spinal canal's epidural ...

Lidocaine Lidocaine, also known as lignocaine and sold under the brand name Xylocaine among others, is a local anesthetic of the amino amide type. It is also used to treat ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. When used for local anae ...

Lidocaine/epinephrine Lidocaine, also known as lignocaine and sold under the brand name Xylocaine among others, is a local anesthetic of the amino amide type. It is also used to treat ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. When used for local anaesth ...

(

lidocaine Lidocaine, also known as lignocaine and sold under the brand name Xylocaine among others, is a local anesthetic of the amino amide type. It is also used to treat ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. When used for local anae ...

epinephrine Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and medication which is involved in regulating visceral functions (e.g., respiration). It appears as a white microcrystalline granule. Adrenaline is normally produced by the adrenal glands a ...

) Complementary: *

Ephedrine Ephedrine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant and sympathomimetic agent that is often used to prevent hypotension, low blood pressure during anesthesia. It has also been used for asthma, narcolepsy, and obesity but is not the preferred ...

(For use in spinal anaesthesia during delivery, to prevent hypotension).

Preoperative medication and sedation for short-term procedures

Atropine Atropine is a tropane alkaloid and anticholinergic medication used to treat certain types of nerve agent and pesticide poisonings as well as some types of slow heart rate, and to decrease saliva production during surgery. It is typically give ...

Midazolam Midazolam, sold under the brand name Versed among others, is a benzodiazepine medication used for anesthesia, premedication before surgical anesthesia, and procedural sedation, and to treat psychomotor agitation, severe agitation. It induces ...

Morphine Morphine, formerly also called morphia, is an opiate that is found naturally in opium, a dark brown resin produced by drying the latex of opium poppies (''Papaver somniferum''). It is mainly used as an analgesic (pain medication). There are ...

Medical gases

No more than 30% oxygen should be used to initiate resuscitation of neonates less than or equal to 32 weeks of gestation.

Medicines for pain and palliative care

Non-opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIMs)

Acetylsalicylic acid Aspirin () is the Generic trademark, genericized trademark for acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce pain, fever, and inflammation, and as an antithrombotic. Specific inflammatory conditions ...

(aspirin) *

Ibuprofen Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation. This includes dysmenorrhea, painful menstrual periods, migraines, and rheumatoid arthritis. It can be taken oral administration, ...

Not in children less than three months. *

Paracetamol Paracetamol, or acetaminophen, is a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic agent used to treat fever and mild to moderate pain. It is a widely available over-the-counter drug sold under various brand names, including Tylenol and Panadol. Parac ...

Not recommended for anti‐inflammatory use due to lack of proven benefit to that effect. (acetaminophen)

Opioid analgesics

Codeine Codeine is an opiate and prodrug of morphine mainly used to treat pain, coughing, and diarrhea. It is also commonly used as a recreational drug. It is found naturally in the sap of the opium poppy, ''Papaver somniferum''. It is typically use ...

Fentanyl Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic piperidine opioid primarily used as an analgesic (pain medication). It is 30 to 50 times more Potency (pharmacology), potent than heroin and 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Its primary Medici ...

For the management of cancer pain *

Hydromorphone Hydromorphone, also known as dihydromorphinone, and sold under the brand name Dilaudid among others, is a morphinan opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain. Typically, long-term use is only recommended for pain due to cancer. It may b ...

and

oxycodone Oxycodone, sold under the brand name Roxicodone and OxyContin (which is the extended-release form) among others, is a semi-synthetic opioid used medically for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. It is highly addictive and is a commonly ...

are alternatives Complementary: *

Methadone Methadone, sold under the brand names Dolophine and Methadose among others, is a synthetic opioid used medically to treat chronic pain and opioid use disorder. Prescribed for daily use, the medicine relieves cravings and opioid withdrawal sym ...

For the management of cancer pain.

Medicines for other common symptoms in palliative care

Amitriptyline Amitriptyline, sold under the brand name Elavil among others, is a tricyclic antidepressant primarily used to treat major depressive disorder, and a variety of pain syndromes such as neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, migraine and tension headac ...

* Cyclizine *

Dexamethasone Dexamethasone is a fluorinated glucocorticoid medication used to treat rheumatic problems, a number of skin diseases, severe allergies, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), croup, brain swelling, eye pain following eye su ...

Diazepam Diazepam, sold under the brand name Valium among others, is a medicine of the benzodiazepine family that acts as an anxiolytic. It is used to treat a range of conditions, including anxiety disorder, anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal syndr ...

* Docusate sodium *

Fluoxetine Fluoxetine, sold under the brand name Prozac, among others, is an Antidepressant, antidepressant medication of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class used for the treatment of major depressive disorder, Anxiety disorder, anx ...

Haloperidol Haloperidol, sold under the brand name Haldol among others, is a typical antipsychotic medication. Haloperidol is used in the treatment of schizophrenia, tics in Tourette syndrome, mania in bipolar disorder, delirium, agitation, acute psychos ...

* Hyoscine butylbromide *

Hyoscine hydrobromide Scopolamine, also known as hyoscine, or Devil's Breath, is a medication used to treat motion sickness and postoperative nausea and vomiting. It is also sometimes used before surgery to decrease saliva. When used by injection, effects begin ...

Lactulose Lactulose is a non-absorbable sugar used in the treatment of constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. It is administered orally for constipation, and either orally or rectally for hepatic encephalopathy. It generally begins working after 8� ...

Loperamide Loperamide, sold under the brand name Imodium, among others,Drugs.co Page accessed 4 September 2015 is a medication of the opioid receptor agonist class used to decrease the frequency of diarrhea. It is often used for this purpose in irritable ...

Metoclopramide Metoclopramide is a medication used to treat nausea, vomiting, gastroparesis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is also used to treat migraine headaches. Common side effects include feeling tired, diarrhea, akathisia, and tardive dyski ...

Ondansetron Ondansetron, sold under the brand name Zofran among others, is a medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, radiation therapy, migraines, or surgery. It is also effective for treating gastroenteritis. It can be giv ...

Dolasetron Dolasetron (trade name Anzemet) is a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist used to treat nausea and vomiting following chemotherapy. Its main effect is to reduce the activity of the vagus nerve, which is a nerve that activates the vomiting center i ...

granisetron Granisetron is a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist used as an antiemetic to treat nausea and vomiting following chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Its main effect is to reduce the activity of the vagus nerve, which is a nerve that activates the ...

palonosetron Palonosetron, sold under the brand name Aloxi, is a medication used for the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). It is a 5-HT3 antagonist. Palonosetron is administered intravenously, or as a single oral ...

, and

tropisetron Tropisetron is a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist used mainly as an antiemetic to treat nausea and vomiting following chemotherapy, although it has been used experimentally as an analgesic in cases of fibromyalgia. It was patented in 198 ...

are alternatives * Senna

Antiallergics and medicines used in anaphylaxis

Epinephrine Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and medication which is involved in regulating visceral functions (e.g., respiration). It appears as a white microcrystalline granule. Adrenaline is normally produced by the adrenal glands a ...

(adrenaline) *

Hydrocortisone Hydrocortisone is the name for the hormone cortisol when supplied as a medication. It is a corticosteroid and works as an anti-inflammatory and by immune suppression. Uses include conditions such as adrenocortical insufficiency, adrenogenit ...

Loratadine Loratadine, sold under the brand name Claritin among others, is a medication used to treat allergies. This includes allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and hives. It is also available in drug combinations such as loratadine/pseudoephedrine, in whic ...

Cetirizine Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine, second-generation Peripherally selective antihistamine used to treat allergic rhinitis (hay fever), dermatitis, and urticaria (hives). It is taken by mouth. Effects generally begin within thirty ...

and

fexofenadine Fexofenadine, sold under the brand name Allegra among others, is an antihistamine medication used in the treatment of allergy symptoms such as allergic rhinitis and urticaria. Therapeutically, fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1 blocke ...

are alternativesThere may be a role for sedating antihistamines for limited indications (EMLc). *

Prednisolone Prednisolone is a corticosteroid, a steroid hormone used to treat certain types of allergies, inflammation, inflammatory conditions, autoimmune disorders, and cancers, Electrolyte imbalance, electrolyte imbalances and skin conditions. Some of ...

Prednisone Prednisone is a glucocorticoid medication mostly used to immunosuppressive drug, suppress the immune system and decrease inflammation in conditions such as asthma, COPD, and rheumatologic diseases. It is also used to treat high blood calcium ...

is an alternative

Antidotes and other substances used in poisonings

Non-specific

* Charcoal, activated

Specific

Acetylcysteine ''N''-acetylcysteine, also known as Acetylcysteine and NAC, is a mucolytics that is used to treat paracetamol (acetaminophen) overdose and to loosen thick mucus in individuals with chronic bronchopulmonary disorders, such as pneumonia and ...

* Calcium gluconate * Methylthioninium chloride (methylene blue) *

Naloxone Naloxone, sold under the brand name Narcan among others, is an opioid antagonist, a medication used to reverse or reduce the effects of opioids. For example, it is used to restore breathing after an opioid overdose. Effects begin within two ...

Penicillamine Penicillamine, sold under the brand name of Cuprimine among others, is a medication primarily used for the treatment of Wilson's disease. It is also used for people with kidney stones who have high urine cystine levels, rheumatoid arthritis, ...

Prussian blue Prussian blue (also known as Berlin blue, Brandenburg blue, Parisian and Paris blue) is a dark blue pigment produced by oxidation of ferrous ferrocyanide salts. It has the chemical formula . It consists of cations, where iron is in the oxidat ...

Sodium nitrite Sodium nitrite is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula . It is a white to slightly yellowish crystalline powder that is very soluble in water and is hygroscopic. From an industrial perspective, it is the most important nitrite sa ...

Sodium thiosulfate Sodium thiosulfate (sodium thiosulphate) is an inorganic compound with the formula . Typically it is available as the white or colorless pentahydrate (x = 5), which is a white solid that dissolves well in water. The compound is a reducing agent an ...

Complementary: *

Deferoxamine Deferoxamine (DFOA), also known as desferrioxamine and sold under the brand name Desferal, is a medication that binds iron and aluminium. It is specifically used in iron overdose, hemochromatosis either due to multiple blood transfusions or an ...

Dimercaprol Dimercaprol, also called British anti-Lewisite (BAL), is a medication used to treat acute poisoning by arsenic, mercury, gold, and lead. It may also be used for antimony, thallium, or bismuth poisoning, although the evidence for those uses is n ...

Fomepizole Fomepizole, also known as 4-methylpyrazole, is a medication used to treat methanol and ethylene glycol poisoning. It may be used alone or together with hemodialysis. It is given by injection into a vein. Common side effects include headache ...

Sodium calcium edetate Sodium calcium edetate (sodium calcium EDTA), also known as edetate calcium disodium among other names, is a medication primarily used to treat lead poisoning, including both short-term and long-term lead poisoning. Sodium calcium edetate came ...

Succimer Succimer, sold under the brand name Chemet among others, is a medication tool used to treat lead, mercury, and arsenic poisoning. When it's radiolabeled with technetium-99m, it's used in many types of diagnostic testing. Common side effe ...

Medicines for diseases of the nervous system

Antiseizure medicines

Carbamazepine Carbamazepine, sold under the brand name Tegretol among others, is an anticonvulsant medication used in the treatment of epilepsy and neuropathic pain. It is used as an adjunctive treatment in schizophrenia along with other medications and as ...

Lamotrigine Lamotrigine ( ), sold under the brand name Lamictal among others, is a medication used to treat epilepsy and stabilize mood in bipolar disorder. For epilepsy, this includes focal seizures, tonic-clonic seizures, and seizures in Lennox-Gastau ...

For use as adjunctive therapy for treatment-resistant partial or generalized seizures. *

Levetiracetam Levetiracetam, sold under the brand name Keppra among others, is a novel antiepileptic drug. (medication) used to treat epilepsy. It is used for Focal seizure, partial-onset, Myoclonic epilepsy, myoclonic, or tonic–clonic seizures, and is ta ...

Lorazepam Lorazepam, sold under the brand name Ativan, Tavor among others, is a benzodiazepine medication. It is used to treat anxiety (including anxiety disorders), insomnia, severe agitation, active seizures including status epilepticus, alcoh ...

and

midazolam Midazolam, sold under the brand name Versed among others, is a benzodiazepine medication used for anesthesia, premedication before surgical anesthesia, and procedural sedation, and to treat psychomotor agitation, severe agitation. It induces ...

are alternatives *

Magnesium sulfate Magnesium sulfate or magnesium sulphate is a chemical compound, a salt with the formula , consisting of magnesium cations (20.19% by mass) and sulfate anions . It is a white crystalline solid, soluble in water but not in ethanol. Magnesi ...

For use in eclampsia and severe pre‐eclampsia and not for other convulsant disorders. *

For buccal administration when solution for oromucosal administration is not available. *

Phenobarbital Phenobarbital, also known as phenobarbitone or phenobarb, sold under the brand name Luminal among others, is a medication of the barbiturate type. It is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the treatment of certain types of ...

Phenytoin Phenytoin (PHT), sold under the brand name Dilantin among others, is an anticonvulsant, anti-seizure medication. It is useful for the prevention of tonic-clonic seizures (also known as grand mal seizures) and focal seizures, but not absence se ...

The presence of both 25 mg/5 mL and 30 mg/5 mL strengths on the same market would cause confusion in prescribing and dispensing and should be avoided. *

Valproic acid Valproate (valproic acid, VPA, sodium valproate, and valproate semisodium forms) are medications primarily used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder and prevent migraine headaches. They are useful for the prevention of seizures in those with ...

(sodium valproate)Avoid use in pregnancy and in women and girls of child-bearing potential, unless alternative treatments are ineffective or not tolerated because of the high risk of birth defects and developmental disorders in children exposed to valproate in the womb. Complementary: * Ethosuximide *

Medicines for multiple sclerosis

Complementary: * Cladribine *

Glatiramer acetate Glatiramer acetate, sold under the brand name Copaxone among others, is an immunomodulator medication used to treat multiple sclerosis. Glatiramer acetate is approved in the United States to reduce the frequency of relapses, but not for reduci ...

Rituximab Rituximab, sold under the brand name Rituxan among others, is a monoclonal antibody medication used to treat certain autoimmune diseases and types of cancer. It is used for non-Hodgkin lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (in children and ad ...

Medicines for parkinsonism

Biperiden Biperiden, sold under the brand name Akineton among others, is a medication used to treat Parkinson disease, certain drug-induced movement disorders and Tourette Syndrome. It is not recommended for tardive dyskinesias. It is taken by mouth, in ...

Trihexyphenidyl Trihexyphenidyl (THP, benzhexol, trihex, marketed as Artane and others) is an antispasmodic drug used to treat stiffness, tremors, spasms, and poor muscle control. It is an agent of the antimuscarinic class and is often used in management of P ...

is an alternative * Levodopa/carbidopa (

levodopa Levodopa, also known as L-DOPA and sold under many brand names, is a dopaminergic medication which is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD) and certain other conditions like dopamine-responsive dystonia and restless legs syndrome. ...

carbidopa Carbidopa, sold under the brand name Lodosyn, is a medication given to people with Parkinson's disease in order to inhibit peripheral metabolism of levodopa. This property is significant in that it allows a greater proportion of administered levo ...

)

benserazide Benserazide is a peripherally acting aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase or DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor, which is unable to cross the blood–brain barrier. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. Medical use ...

is an alternative for carbidopa

Anti-infective medicines

Anthelminthics

Intestinal anthelminthics

Albendazole Albendazole is a broad-spectrum antihelmintic and antiprotozoal agent of the benzimidazole type. It is used for the treatment of a variety of intestinal parasite infections, including ascariasis, pinworm infection, hookworm infection, trichuri ...

Ivermectin Ivermectin is an antiparasitic drug. After its discovery in 1975, its first uses were in veterinary medicine to prevent and treat heartworm and acariasis. Approved for human use in 1987, it is used to treat infestations including head lice ...

Levamisole Levamisole, sold under the brand name Ergamisol among others, is a medication used to treat parasitic worm infections, specifically ascariasis and hookworm infections. It is taken by mouth. Side effects may include abdominal pain, vomiting, ...

Mebendazole Mebendazole (MBZ), sold under the brand name Vermox among others, is a medication used to treat a number of parasitic worm infestations. This includes ascariasis, pinworm infection, hookworm infections, guinea worm infections and hydatid di ...

Niclosamide Niclosamide, sold under the brand name Niclocide among others, is an anthelmintic medication used to treat tapeworm infestations, including diphyllobothriasis, hymenolepiasis, and taeniasis. It is not effective against other worms such as ...

Praziquantel Praziquantel, sold under the brandname Biltricide among others, is a medication used to treat a number of types of parasitic worm infections in mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. In humans specifically, it is used to treat schist ...

* Pyrantel

Antifilarials

* Diethylcarbamazine *

Antischistosomals and other antinematode medicines

Triclabendazole Triclabendazole, sold under the brand name Egaten among others, is a medication used to treat fascioliasis and paragonimiasis. It is very effective for both conditions. Treatment in hospital may be required. It is taken by mouth with typicall ...

Complementary: * OxamniquineOxamniquine is listed for use when praziquantel treatment fails.

Cysticidal medicines

Complementary: *

Antibacterials

Access group antibiotics

Amikacin Amikacin is an antibiotic medication used for a number of bacterial infections. This includes joint infections, intra-abdominal infections, meningitis, pneumonia, sepsis, and urinary tract infections. It is also used for the treatment of ...

Amoxicillin Amoxicillin is an antibiotic medication belonging to the aminopenicillin class of the penicillin family. The drug is used to treat bacterial infections such as middle ear infection, strep throat, pneumonia, skin infections, odontogenic inf ...

Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, also known as co-amoxiclav or amox-clav, sold under the brand name Augmentin, among others, is an antibiotic medication used for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. It is a combination consisting of ...

(

amoxicillin Amoxicillin is an antibiotic medication belonging to the aminopenicillin class of the penicillin family. The drug is used to treat bacterial infections such as middle ear infection, strep throat, pneumonia, skin infections, odontogenic inf ...

clavulanic acid Clavulanic acid is a β-lactam antibiotic, β-lactam drug that functions as a Suicide inhibition, mechanism-based β-lactamase inhibitor. While not effective by itself as an antibiotic, when combined with penicillin-group antibiotics, it can ove ...

) *

Ampicillin Ampicillin is an antibiotic belonging to the aminopenicillin class of the penicillin family. The drug is used to prevent and treat several bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, meningitis, s ...

Benzathine benzylpenicillin Benzathine benzylpenicillin, also known as benzathine penicillin G (BPG), is an antibiotic medication useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. Specifically it is used to treat strep throat, diphtheria, syphilis, and yaws ...

Benzylpenicillin Benzylpenicillin, also known as penicillin G (PenG) or BENPEN, is an antibiotic used to treat a number of bacterial infections. This includes pneumonia, strep throat, syphilis, necrotizing enterocolitis, diphtheria, gas gangrene, leptospiro ...

Cefalexin Cefalexin, also spelled cephalexin, is an antibiotic that can treat a number of bacterial infections. It kills gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria by disrupting the growth of the bacterial cell wall. Cefalexin is a β-lactam antibi ...

Cefazolin Cefazolin, also known as cefazoline and cephazolin, is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. Specifically it is used to treat cellulitis, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, end ...

1 month. *

Chloramphenicol Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. This includes use as an eye ointment to treat conjunctivitis. By mouth or by intravenous, injection into a vein, it is used to treat meningitis, pl ...

Only for the presumptive treatment of epidemic meningitis in children older than two years and in adults. *

Clindamycin Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic medication used for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections, including osteomyelitis (bone) or joint infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, strep throat, pneumonia, acute otitis media (mi ...

Cloxacillin Cloxacillin is an antibiotic useful for the treatment of several bacterial infections. This includes impetigo, cellulitis, pneumonia, septic arthritis, and otitis externa. It is not effective for methicillin-resistant ''Staphylococcus aureus'' ( ...

Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( J01CF Beta-lactamase resistant penicillins)cloxacillin, dicloxacillin and flucloxacillin are preferred for oral administration due to better bioavailability. *

Doxycycline Doxycycline is a Broad-spectrum antibiotic, broad-spectrum antibiotic of the Tetracycline antibiotics, tetracycline class used in the treatment of infections caused by bacteria and certain parasites. It is used to treat pneumonia, bacterial p ...

Use in children <8 years only for life-threatening infections when no alternative exists. *

Gentamicin Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat several types of bacterial infections. This may include bone infections, endocarditis, pelvic inflammatory disease, meningitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and sepsis amo ...

Metronidazole Metronidazole, sold under the brand name Flagyl and Metrogyl among others, is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication. It is used either alone or with other antibiotics to treat pelvic inflammatory disease, endocarditis, and bacterial vagino ...

Nitrofurantoin Nitrofurantoin, sold under the brand name Macrobid among others, is an antibacterial medication of the nitrofuran class used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), although it is not as effective for kidney infections. It is taken by mouth ...

Phenoxymethylpenicillin Phenoxymethylpenicillin, also known as penicillin V (PcV) and penicillin VK, is an antibiotic useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. Specifically it is used for the treatment of strep throat, otitis media, and celluliti ...

(penicillin V) *

Procaine benzylpenicillin Procaine benzylpenicillin also known as penicillin G procaine, is an antibiotic useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. Specifically it is used for syphilis, anthrax, mouth infections, pneumonia, diphtheria, cellulitis, a ...

Procaine benzylpenicillin is not recommended as first-line treatment for neonatal sepsis except in settings with high neonatal mortality, when given by trained health workers in cases where hospital care is not achievable. * Spectinomycin * Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (

sulfamethoxazole Sulfamethoxazole (SMZ or SMX) is an antibiotic. It is used for bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, bronchitis, and prostatitis and is effective against both gram negative and positive bacteria such as ''Escherichia coli' ...

trimethoprim Trimethoprim (TMP) is an antibiotic used mainly in the treatment of bladder infections. Other uses include for middle ear infections and travelers' diarrhea. With sulfamethoxazole or dapsone it may be used for ''Pneumocystis'' pneumonia ...

) *

Trimethoprim Trimethoprim (TMP) is an antibiotic used mainly in the treatment of bladder infections. Other uses include for middle ear infections and travelers' diarrhea. With sulfamethoxazole or dapsone it may be used for ''Pneumocystis'' pneumonia ...

Watch group antibiotics

Azithromycin Azithromycin, sold under the brand names Zithromax (in oral form) and Azasite (as an eye drop), is an antibiotic medication used for the treatment of several bacterial infections. This includes otitis media, middle ear infections, strep throa ...

* Cefixime *

Cefotaxime Cefotaxime is an antibiotic used to treat several bacterial infections in humans, other animals, and plant tissue culture. Specifically in humans it is used to treat joint infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, meningitis, pneumonia, urin ...

Third-generation cephalosporin of choice for use in hospitalized neonates. *

Ceftriaxone Ceftriaxone, sold under the brand name Rocephin, is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. These include middle ear infections, endocarditis, meningitis, pneumonia, bone and joi ...

Do not administer with calcium and avoid in infants with hyperbilirubinemia. 41 weeks corrected gestational age. *

Cefuroxime Cefuroxime, sold under the brand name Zinacef among others, is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat and prevent a number of bacterial infections. These include pneumonia, meningitis, otitis media, sepsis, urinary tract inf ...

Ciprofloxacin Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat a number of bacterial infections. This includes bone and joint infections, intra-abdominal infections, certain types of infectious diarrhea, respiratory tract infections, skin ...

Clarithromycin Clarithromycin, sold under the brand name Biaxin among others, is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. This includes strep throat, pneumonia, skin infections, '' H. pylori'' infection, and Lyme disease, among others. Clari ...

Erythromycin Erythromycin is an antibiotic used for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. This includes respiratory tract infections, skin infections, chlamydia infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, and syphilis. It may also be used ...

is an alternative as second choice treatment for pharyngitis in children (EMLc only)For use in combination regimens for eradication of ''H. pylori'' in adults. *

Piperacillin/tazobactam Piperacillin/tazobactam, sold under the brand name Tazocin among others, is a combination medication containing the antibiotic piperacillin and the β-lactamase inhibitor tazobactam. The combination has activity against many Gram-positive and G ...

(

piperacillin Piperacillin is a broad-spectrum β-lactam antibiotic of the ureidopenicillin class. The chemical structure of piperacillin and other ureidopenicillins incorporates a polar side chain that enhances penetration into Gram-negative bacteria and red ...

+ tazobactam) *

Vancomycin Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic medication used to treat certain bacterial infections. It is administered intravenously ( injection into a vein) to treat complicated skin infections, bloodstream infections, endocarditis, bone an ...

Vancomycin powder for injection may also be used for oral administration Complementary: *

Ceftazidime Ceftazidime, sold under the brand name Fortaz among others, is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. Specifically it is used for joint infections, meningitis, pneumonia, sepsi ...

Meropenem Meropenem, sold under the brand name Merrem among others, is an intravenous carbapenem antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Some of these include meningitis, intra-abdominal infection, pneumonia, sepsis, and anthrax. C ...

Imipenem/cilastatin is an alternative for complicated intraabdominal infections and high-risk febrile neutropenia only, except for acute bacterial meningitis in neonates, where meropenem is preferred *

Reserve group antibiotics

Reserve antibiotics are last-resort antibiotics. The EML antibiotic book was published in 2022. Complementary: *

Cefiderocol Cefiderocol, sold under the brand name Fetroja (by Shionogi) among others, is an antibiotic used to treat complicated urinary tract infections when no other options are available. It is indicated for the treatment of multi-drug-resistant Gram ...

Ceftazidime/avibactam Ceftazidime/avibactam, sold under the brand name Avycaz (by AbbVie) among others, is a fixed-dose combination medication composed of ceftazidime, a cephalosporin antibiotic, and avibactam, a Beta-lactamase inhibitor, β-lactamase inhibitor. It i ...

(

ceftazidime Ceftazidime, sold under the brand name Fortaz among others, is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. Specifically it is used for joint infections, meningitis, pneumonia, sepsi ...

avibactam Avibactam is a non-β-lactam Β-Lactamase inhibitor, β-lactamase inhibitor developed by Actavis (now Teva Pharmaceuticals, Teva) jointly with AstraZeneca. A new drug application for avibactam in Ceftazidime/avibactam, combination with ceftazidim ...

) * Ceftolozane/tazobactam (

ceftolozane Ceftolozane/tazobactam, sold under the brand name Zerbaxa, (Merck) is a combination antibiotic, fixed-dose combination antibiotic medication used for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections and complicated intra-abdominal infections ...

+ tazobactam) * Colistin * Fosfomycin * LinezolidTedizolid phosphate is an alternative * Meropenem/vaborbactam (meropenem + vaborbactam) * Plazomicin * Polymyxin B

Antileprosy medicines

* Clofazimine * Dapsone * Rifampicin

Antituberculosis medicines

* Ethambutol * Ethambutol/isoniazid/pyrazinamide/rifampicin (ethambutol + isoniazid + pyrazinamide + rifampicin) * Ethambutol/isoniazid/rifampicin (ethambutol + isoniazid + rifampicin) * Ethionamide * Isoniazid * Isoniazid/pyrazinamide/rifampicin (isoniazid + pyrazinamide + rifampicin) * Isoniazid/rifampicin (isoniazid + rifampicin) * Isoniazid/rifapentine (isoniazid + rifapentine) * Moxifloxacin * Pyrazinamide * RifabutinFor use only in patients with HIV receiving protease inhibitors. * Rifampicin * Rifapentine Complementary: *

(

)For use only in combination with meropenem or imipenem/cilastatin. * Bedaquiline * Clofazimine * CycloserineTerizidone is an alternative * Delamanid * EthionamideProthionamide is an alternative * Levofloxacin * Linezolid *

Imipenem/cilastatin is an alternative * Moxifloxacin * P-aminosalicylic acid (p-aminosalicylate sodium) * Pretomanid * Streptomycin

Antifungal medicines

* Amphotericin B * Clotrimazole * Fluconazole * Flucytosine * Griseofulvin * ItraconazoleFor treatment of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, histoplasmosis, sporotrichosis, paracoccidioidomycosis, mycoses caused by ''Talaromyces marneffei'' and chromoblastomycosis; and prophylaxis of histoplasmosis and infections caused by ''Talaromyces marneffei'' in AIDS patients. * Nystatin * VoriconazoleFor treatment of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis and acute invasive aspergillosis. Complementary: * MicafunginAnidulafungin and caspofungin are alternatives * Potassium iodide

Antiviral medicines

Antiherpes medicines

* AciclovirValaciclovir is an alternative

Antiretrovirals

=Nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors

= * Abacavir * Lamivudine * Tenofovir disoproxil fumaratealso indicated for pre-exposure prophylaxis. * Zidovudine

=Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors

= * Efavirenz * Nevirapine 6 weeks

=Protease inhibitors

= * Atazanavir/ritonavir (atazanavir + ritonavir) * Darunavir 3 years * Lopinavir/ritonavir (lopinavir + ritonavir) * Ritonavir

=Integrase inhibitors

= * Dolutegravir * RaltegravirFor use in pregnant women and in second-line regimens in accordance with WHO treatment guidelines.

=Fixed-dose combinations of antiretroviral medicines

= * Abacavir/lamivudine (abacavir + lamivudine) * Dolutegravir/lamivudine/tenofovir (dolutegravir + lamivudine + tenofovir) * Efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovirlamivudine is an alternative for emtricitabine * Efavirenz/lamivudine/tenofovir (efavirenz + lamivudine + tenofovir) * Emtricitabine/tenofovir (emtricitabine + tenofovir)combination also indicated for pre-exposure prophylaxis * Lamivudine/zidovudine (lamivudine + zidovudine)

=Medicines for prevention of HIV-related opportunistic infections

= * Isoniazid/pyridoxine/sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (isoniazid + pyridoxine +

)

=Other antivirals

= * RibavirinFor the treatment of viral haemorrhagic fevers * ValganciclovirFor the treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVr). Complementary: * OseltamivirFor severe illness due to confirmed or suspected influenza virus infection in critically ill hospitalized patients * ValganciclovirFor the treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVr).

Antihepatitis medicines

=Medicines for hepatitis B

Nucleoside/Nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors

* Entecavir * Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate

=Medicines for hepatitis C

Pangenotypic direct-acting antiviral combinations

* DaclatasvirPangenotypic when used in combination with sofosbuvir * Daclatasvir/sofosbuvir (daclatasvir + sofosbuvir) * Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (glecaprevir + pibrentasvir) * RavidasvirPangenotypic when used in combination with sofosbuvir * SofosbuvirPangenotypic when used in combination with daclatasvir or ravidasvir * Sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (sofosbuvir + velpatasvir)

Non-pangenotypic direct-acting antiviral combinations

* Ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (ledipasvir + sofosbuvir)

Other antivirals for hepatitis C

* RibavirinFor the treatment of hepatitis C, in combination with direct acting anti-viral medicines

Antiprotozoal medicines

Antiamoebic and antigiardiasis medicines

* Diloxanide 25 kg. *

Tinidazole is an alternative

Antileishmaniasis medicines

* Amphotericin BLiposomal amphotericin B has a better safety profile than the sodium deoxycholate formulation and should be prioritized for selection and use depending on local availability and cost. * Meglumine antimoniate * Miltefosine * Paromomycin * Sodium stibogluconate

Antimalarial medicines

=For curative treatment

= * AmodiaquineTo be used in combination with artesunate 50 mg. * ArtemetherFor use in the management of severe malaria. * Artemether/lumefantrine (artemether + lumefantrine)Not recommended in the first trimester of pregnancy or in children below 5 kg. * ArtesunateTo be used in combination with either amodiaquine, mefloquine, or sulfadoxine + pyrimethamine. * Artesunate/amodiaquine (artesunate + amodiaquine)Other combinations that deliver the target doses required such as 153 mg or 200 mg (as hydrochloride) with 50 mg artesunate are alternatives * Artesunate/mefloquine (artesunate + mefloquine) * Artesunate/pyronaridine tetraphosphate (artesunate + pyronaridine tetraphosphate) 5 kg * ChloroquineFor use only for the treatment of ''Plasmodium vivax'' infection. * Dihydroartemisinin/piperaquine phosphate (dihydroartemisinin + piperaquine phosphate) 5 kg *

For use only in combination with quinine. * Mefloquine * PrimaquineOnly for use to achieve radical cure of ''Plasmodium vivax'' and ''Plasmodium ovale'' infections, given for 14 days. * QuinineFor use only in the management of severe malaria, and should be used in combination with doxycycline. * Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (sulfadoxine + pyrimethamine)Only in combination with artesunate 50 mg.

=For chemoprevention

= * Amodiaquine + sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (Co-packaged) * ChloroquineFor use only in Central American regions, for ''Plasmodium vivax'' infections. *

8 years. * Mefloquine 5 kg or > 3 months. * ProguanilFor use only in combination with chloroquine. * Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (sulfadoxine + pyrimethamine)

Antipneumocystosis and antitoxoplasmosis medicines

* Pyrimethamine * Sulfadiazine * Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (

) Complementary: * Pentamidine

Antitrypanosomal medicines

=African trypanosomiasis

= * FexinidazoleFor the treatment of 1st and 2nd stage human African trypanosomiasis due to ''Trypanosoma brucei gambiense'' infection.

Medicines for the treatment of 1st stage African trypanosomiasis

* PentamidineTo be used for the treatment of ''Trypanosoma brucei gambiense'' infection. * Suramin sodiumTo be used for the treatment of the initial phase of ''Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense'' infection.

Medicines for the treatment of 2nd stage African trypanosomiasis

* EflornithineTo be used for the treatment of ''Trypanosoma brucei gambiense'' infection * Melarsoprol * NifurtimoxOnly to be used in combination with eflornithine, for the treatment of ''Trypanosoma brucei gambiense'' infection. Complementary: * Melarsoprol

=American trypanosomiasis

= * Benznidazole * Nifurtimox

Medicines for ectoparasitic infections

Medicines for Ebola virus disease

* Ansuvimab * Atoltivimab/maftivimab/odesivimab (atoltivimab + maftivimab + odesivimab)

Medicines for COVID-19

No listings in this section.

Antimigraine medicines

For treatment of acute attack

(aspirin) *

(acetaminophen)The presence of both 120 mg/5 mL and 125 mg/5mL strengths on the same market would cause confusion in prescribing and dispensing and should be avoided. * Sumatriptan

For prophylaxis

* Propranolol

Immunomodulators and antineoplastics

Immunomodulators for non-malignant disease

Complementary: * AdalimumabCertolizumab pegol, etanercept, golimumab and infliximab are alternatives, including quality-assured biosimilars * Azathioprine * Ciclosporin * Tacrolimus

Antineoplastics and supportive medicines

Cytotoxic medicines

Complementary: * Arsenic trioxide * Asparaginase * Bendamustine * Bleomycin * Calcium folinate (leucovorin calcium) * Capecitabine * Carboplatin * Chlorambucil * Cisplatin * Cyclophosphamide * Cytarabine * Dacarbazine * Dactinomycin * Daunorubicin * Docetaxel * Doxorubicin * Doxorubicin (as pegylated liposomal) * Etoposide * Fludarabine * Fluorouracil * Gemcitabine * Hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea) * Ifosfamide * Irinotecan * Melphalan * Mercaptopurine * Methotrexate * Oxaliplatin * Paclitaxel * PegaspargaseIncluding quality-assured biosimilars * Procarbazine * Realgar-Indigo naturalis, Realgar ''Indigo naturalis'' formulation * Tioguanine * Vinblastine * Vincristine * Vinorelbine

Targeted therapies

Complementary: * Tretinoin, All-trans retinoic acid (tretinoin) (ATRA) * Bortezomib * Dasatinib * ErlotinibAfatinib and gefitinib are alternatives * Everolimus * Ibrutinib * Imatinib * Nilotinib *

* Trastuzumab

Immunomodulators

Complementary: * Filgrastim * Lenalidomide * NivolumabPembrolizumab is an alternative, including quality-assured biosimilars * Pegfilgrastim * Thalidomide

Hormones and antihormones

Complementary: * AbirateroneEnzalutamide is an alternative * AnastrozoleAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code L02#L02BG, L02BG Aromatase inhibitors) * BicalutamideFlutamide and nilutamide are alternatives *

* LeuprorelinGoserelin and triptorelin are alternatives * Methylprednisolone *

is an alternative * Tamoxifen

Supportive medicines

Complementary: * Allopurinol * Mesna * Rasburicase * Zoledronic acid

Therapeutic foods

* Ready-to-use therapeutic foodBiscuit or paste of nutritional composition as determined by the UN joint statement on the community-based management of severe acute malnutrition and Codex alimentarius guidelines.

Medicines affecting the blood

Antianaemia medicines

* Iron supplement, Ferrous salt * Ferrous salt/folic acid (ferrous salt + folic acid) * Folic acidpericonceptual use for prevention of first occurrence of neural tube defects * Hydroxocobalamin Complementary: * Erythropoiesis-stimulating agentsEpoetin alfa, epoetin beta, beta and epoetin theta, theta; darbepoetin alfa; methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta; and their quality-assured biosimilars are alternatives

Medicines affecting coagulation

* DabigatranApixaban, edoxaban, and rivaroxaban are alternatives * EnoxaparinAlternatives are dalteparin and nadroparin, including their quality-assured biosimilars. * Heparin sodium * Phytomenadione * Protamine sulfate * Tranexamic acid * Warfarin Complementary: * Desmopressin * Heparin sodium * Protamine sulfate * Warfarin

Other medicines for haemoglobinopathies

* DeferasiroxDeferiprone is an alternative Complementary: *

* Hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea)

Blood products of human origin and plasma substitutes

Blood and blood components

* Cryoprecipitate, pathogen-reducedcryoprecipitate (not pathogen-reduced) is an alternative * Fresh frozen plasma * Platelet concentrates, Platelets * Packed red blood cell, Red blood cells * Whole blood

Plasma-derived medicines

Human immunoglobulins

* Rho(D) immune globulin (anti-D immunoglobulin) * Anti-rabies immunoglobulin * Anti-tetanus immunoglobulin Complementary: * Human normal immunoglobulin, Normal immunoglobulin

Blood coagulation factors

Complementary: * Factor VIII (medication), Coagulation factor VIII * Factor IX complex, Coagulation factor IXcoagulation factor IX complex is an alternative

Plasma substitutes

* Dextran 70Polygeline, injectable solution, 3.5% is considered an alternative

Cardiovascular medicines

Antianginal medicines

* BisoprololCarvedilol and metoprolol are alternatives * Glyceryl trinitrate (pharmacology), Glyceryl trinitrate * Isosorbide dinitrate * Verapamil

Antiarrhythmic medicines

* Bisoprolol * Digoxin *

(adrenaline) *

* Verapamil Complementary: * Amiodarone

Antihypertensive medicines

* AmlodipineAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C08#C08CA, C08CA Dihydropyridine derivatives) * BisoprololIncludes atenolol, carvedilol, and metoprolol as alternatives. Atenolol should not be used as a first-line agent in uncomplicated hypertension in patients > 60 years. * EnalaprilAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C09#C09AA, C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) * HydralazineHydralazine is listed for use only in the acute management of severe pregnancy-induced hypertension. Its use in the treatment of essential hypertension is not recommended in view of the evidence of greater efficacy and safety of other medicines. * HydrochlorothiazideChlorothiazide, chlorthalidone, and indapamide are alternatives * Lisinopril/amlodipine (lisinopril + amlodipine)Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C09#C09AA, C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) (for lisinopril) and 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C08#C08CA, C08CA Dihydropyridine derivatives) (for amlodipine) * Lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide (lisinopril + hydrochlorothiazide)Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C09#C09AA, C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) (for lisinopril) and chlorthalidone, chlorothiazide, indapamide (for hydrochlorothiazide) * LosartanAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C09#C09CA, C09CA Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), plain) * MethyldopaMethyldopa is listed for use only in the management of pregnancy-induced hypertension. Its use in the treatment of essential hypertension is not recommended in view of the evidence of greater efficacy and safety of other medicines. * Telmisartan/amlodipine (telmisartan + amlodipine)Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C09#C09CA, C09CA Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), plain) (for telmisartan) and 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C08#C08CA, C08CA Dihydropyridine derivatives) (for amlodipine) * Telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide (telmisartan + hydrochlorothiazide)Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C09#C09CA, C09CA Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), plain) (for telmisartan) and chlorthalidone, chlorothiazide, indapamide (for hydrochlorothiazide) Complementary: * Sodium nitroprusside

Medicines used in heart failure

* Bisoprolol * Digoxin * EnalaprilAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C09#C09AA, C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) * FurosemideBumetanide and torasemide are alternatives * Hydrochlorothiazide * Losartan * Spironolactone Complementary: * Digoxin * Dopamine (medication), Dopamine

Antithrombotic medicines

Anti-platelet medicines

(aspirin) * Clopidogrel

Thrombolytic medicines

Complementary: * Alteplase * Streptokinase

Lipid-lowering agents

* SimvastatinFor use in high‐risk patients. Atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, and pravastatin are alternatives

Fixed-dose combinations for prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

* Acetylsalicylic acid/atorvastatin/ramipril (acetylsalicylic acid + atorvastatin + ramipril)fluvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin are alternatives for atorvastatin4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C09#C09AA, C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) are alternatives for ramipril * Acetylsalicylic acid/simvastatin/ramipril/atenolol/hydrochlorothiazide (acetylsalicylic acid + simvastatin + ramipril + atenolol + hydrochlorothiazide)atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, and pravastatin are alternatives for simvastatinbisoprolol, carvedilol, and metoprolol are alternatives for atenololchlorthalidone, chlorothiazide, and indapamide are alternatives for hydrochlorothiazide * Atorvastatin/perindopril/amlodipine (atorvastatin + perindopril + amlodipine)4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C09#C09AA, C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) are alternatives for perindopril4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code C08#C08CA, C08CA Dihydropyridine derivatives) are alternatives for amlodipine

Dermatological medicines (topical)

Antifungal medicines

* MiconazoleAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code D01#D01AC, D01AC Imidazole and triazole derivatives) excluding combinations * Selenium disulfide, Selenium sulfide *

* Terbinafine

Anti-infective medicines

* Mupirocin * Potassium permanganate (medical use), Potassium permanganate * Silver sulfadiazine

Anti-inflammatory and antipruritic medicines

* BetamethasoneAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code D07#D07AC, D07AC Corticosteroids, potent (group III)) * Calamine *

Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code D07#D07AA, D07AA Corticosteroids, weak (group I))

Medicines affecting skin differentiation and proliferation

* Benzoyl peroxide * CalcipotriolCalcitriol and tacalcitol are alternatives * Coal tar * Fluorouracil * Podophyllum resinPodophyllotoxin is an alternative * Salicylic acid (medical use), Salicylic acid * Urea-containing cream, Urea Complementary: * Methotrexate

Scabicides and pediculicides

* Benzyl benzoateprecipitated sulfur topical ointment is an alternative * Permethrin

Diagnostic agents

Ophthalmic medicines

* Fluorescein (medical use), Fluorescein * Tropicamide

and cyclopentolate are alternatives

Radiocontrast media

* Amidotrizoate * Barium sulfate suspension, Barium sulfate * Iohexol Complementary: * Barium sulfate suspension, Barium sulfate * Meglumine iotroxate

Antiseptics and disinfectants

Antiseptics

* Chlorhexidine * Alcohol (medical use), EthanolPropanol is an alternative * Povidone-iodine, Povidone iodineIodine is an alternative

Disinfectants

* Alcohol based hand rub * Chlorine base compound * ChloroxylenolAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code D08#D08AE, D08AE Phenol and derivatives) * Glutaral

Diuretics

* Amiloride * FurosemideBumetanide and torasemide are alternatives * Hydrochlorothiazide * Mannitol * Spironolactone Complementary: * HydrochlorothiazideChlorothiazide and chlorthalidone are alternatives * Mannitol * Spironolactone

Gastrointestinal medicines

Complementary: * Pancreatic enzymes (medication), Pancreatic enzymes

Antiulcer medicines

* OmeprazoleAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code A02#A02BC, A02BC Proton pump inhibitors) excluding combinations * RanitidineAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code A02#A02BA, A02BA H2-receptor antagonists) excluding combinations

Antiemetic medicines

Complementary: * Aprepitant

Anti-inflammatory medicines

* SulfasalazineMesalazine is an alternative Complementary: *

Laxatives

* SennaBisacodyl is an alternative

Medicines used in diarrhoea

* Oral rehydration salts + Zinc sulfate (medical use), zinc sulfate (Co-packaged)

Oral rehydration

* Oral rehydration salts

Medicines for diarrhoea

* Zinc sulfate (medical use), Zinc sulfateIn acute diarrhoea zinc sulfate should be used as an adjunct to oral rehydration salts.

Medicines for endocrine disorders

Adrenal hormones and synthetic substitutes

* Fludrocortisone *

Androgens

Complementary: * Testosterone (medication), Testosterone

Estrogens

No listings in this section.

Progestogens

* Medroxyprogesterone acetateNorethisterone is an alternative

Medicines for diabetes

Insulins

* Insulin injection (soluble) * Intermediate-acting insulin * Long-acting insulin analoguesInsulin degludec, insulin detemir, and insulin glargine, including quality-assured biosimilars are alternatives

Oral hypoglycaemic agents

* EmpagliflozinCanagliflozin and dapagliflozin are alternatives * GliclazideGlibenclamide not suitable above 60 years. Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code A10#A10BB, A10BB Sulfonylureas) * Metformin Complementary: * Metformin

Medicines for hypoglycaemia

* Glucagon (medication), Glucagon Complementary: * Diazoxide

Thyroid hormones and antithyroid medicines

* Levothyroxine * Potassium iodide * MethimazoleCarbimazole is an alternative depending on local availability * PropylthiouracilFor use when alternative first-line treatment is not appropriate or available; and in patients during the first trimester of pregnancy. Complementary: * Lugol's solution * Methimazole * Potassium iodide * PropylthiouracilFor use when alternative first-line treatment is not appropriate or available

Medicines for disorders of the pituitary hormone system

* Cabergolinebromocriptine is an alternative Complementary: * Octreotide

Immunologicals

Diagnostic agents

* Tuberculin, purified protein derivative (PPD)

Sera, immunoglobulins and monoclonal antibodies

* Anti-rabies virus monoclonal antibodies * Antivenom immunoglobulinExact type to be defined locally * Diphtheria antitoxin * Rabies immunoglobulin, Equine rabies immunoglobulin

Vaccines

Recommendations for all * BCG vaccine * Diphtheria vaccine * Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine * Hepatitis B vaccine * HPV vaccine, Human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine * Measles vaccine * Pertussis vaccine * Pneumococcal vaccine * Poliomyelitis vaccine * Rotavirus vaccine * Rubella vaccine * Tetanus vaccine Recommendations for certain regions * Japanese encephalitis vaccineRecommended for certain regions * Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine * Yellow fever vaccine Recommendations for some high-risk populations * Cholera vaccineRecommended for some high-risk populations * Dengue vaccine * Hepatitis A vaccine * Meningococcal meningitis vaccine * Rabies vaccine * Typhoid vaccine Recommendations for immunization programmes with certain characteristics * Influenza vaccine (seasonal)Recommended only for immunization programmes with certain characteristics * Mumps vaccine * Varicella vaccine

Muscle relaxants (peripherally-acting) and cholinesterase inhibitors

* Atracurium * Neostigmine * Suxamethonium * Vecuroniumatracurium is an alternative Complementary: * Pyridostigmine * Vecuronium

Ophthalmological preparations

Anti-infective agents

* Aciclovir *

For infections due to ''Chlamydia trachomatis'' or ''Neisseria gonorrhoeae''. *

, kanamycin, netilmicin, and tobramycin are alternatives * Natamycin * OfloxacinAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code S01#S01AE, S01AE Fluoroquinolones) * TetracyclineChlortetracycline and oxytetracycline are alternatives

Anti-inflammatory agents

Local anesthetics

* TetracaineAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code S01#S01HA, S01HA Local anaesthetics) excluding cocaine and combinations

Miotics and antiglaucoma medicines

* Acetazolamide * Latanoprost * PilocarpineCarbachol is an alternative * TimololAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (ATC code S01#S01ED, S01ED Beta blocking agents) excluding combinations

Mydriatics

Cyclopentolate hydrochloride or homatropine hydrobromide are alternatives only for the EMLc Complementary: *

(adrenaline)

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) preparations

Complementary: * Bevacizumab

Medicines for reproductive health and perinatal care

Contraceptives

Oral hormonal contraceptives

* Ethinylestradiol/levonorgestrel (ethinylestradiol + levonorgestrel) * Ethinylestradiol/norethisterone (ethinylestradiol + norethisterone) * Levonorgestrel * Ulipristal

Injectable hormonal contraceptives

* Estradiol cypionate/medroxyprogesterone acetate (estradiol cypionate + medroxyprogesterone acetate) * Medroxyprogesterone acetate * Norethisterone enantate

Intrauterine devices

* IUD with copper, Copper-containing device * Hormonal intrauterine device, Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system

Barrier methods

* Condoms * Diaphragm (contraceptive), Diaphragms

Implantable contraceptives

* Etonogestrel birth control implant, Etonogestrel-releasing implant * Levonorgestrel-releasing implant

Intravaginal contraceptives

* Ethinylestradiol/etonogestrel (ethinylestradiol + etonogestrel) * Progesterone vaginal ringFor use in women actively breastfeeding at least 4 times per day

Ovulation inducers

Complementary: * Clomifene * Letrozoleanastrozole is an alternative

Uterotonics

* Carbetocin * ErgometrineMethylergometrine is an alternative * Mifepristone + misoprostol (Co-packaged)Where abortion law, permitted under national law and where abortion debate, culturally acceptable. * MisoprostolOnly for use for induction of labour where appropriate facilities are available. * Oxytocin (medication), Oxytocin

Antioxytocics (tocolytics)

* Nifedipine

Other medicines administered to the mother

* Multivitamin, Multiple micronutrient supplement * Tranexamic acid

Medicines administered to the neonate

* Caffeine citrate * Chlorhexidine Complementary: *

Indometacin is an alternative * Prostaglandin E1Prostaglandin E2 is an alternative * Pulmonary surfactant (medication), Surfactant

Peritoneal dialysis solution

Complementary: * Intraperitoneal dialysis solution (of appropriate composition)

Medicines for mental and behavioural disorders

Medicines used in psychotic disorders

* Fluphenazinehaloperidol decanonate and zuclopenthixol decanonate are alternatives *

Chlorpromazine is an alternative for the tablet * Olanzapine * PaliperidoneRisperidone injection is an alternative * Risperidonearipiprazole, olanzapine, paliperidone, and quetiapine are alternatives Complementary: * Clozapine

Medicines used in mood disorders

Medicines used in depressive disorders

Citalopram, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline are alternatives

Medicines used in bipolar disorders

* Lithium (medication), Lithium carbonate * Quetiapinearipiprazole, olanzapine, and paliperidone are alternatives *

(sodium valproate)

Medicines for anxiety disorders

lorazepam is an alternativeFor short-term emergency management of acute and severe anxiety symptoms only *

Medicines used for obsessive compulsive disorders

* Clomipramine *

Medicines for disorders due to psychoactive substance use

Medicines for alcohol use disorders

* Acamprosate calcium * Naltrexone

Medicines for nicotine use disorders

* Bupropion * Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) * Varenicline Complementary: *

buprenorphine is an alternative. The medicines should only be used within an established support programme.

Medicines acting on the respiratory tract

Antiasthmatic medicines and medicines for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

* BudesonideBeclometasone, ciclesonide, flunisolide, fluticasone, and mometasone are alternatives * Budesonide/formoterol (budesonide + formoterol)Beclometasone/formoterol, budesonide/salmeterol, fluticasone/formoterol, fluticasone furoate/vilanterol, and mometasone/formoterol are alternatives *

(adrenaline) * Ipratropium bromide * SalbutamolTerbutaline is an alternative * TiotropiumAclidinium, glycopyrronium, and umeclidinium are alternatives

Solutions correcting water, electrolyte and acid-base disturbances

Oral

* Oral rehydration salts * Potassium chloride (medical use), Potassium chloride

Parenteral

* Intravenous sugar solution, Glucose * Intravenous sugar solution, Glucose with sodium chloride * Potassium chloride (medical use), Potassium chloride * Saline (medicine), Sodium chloride * Intravenous sodium bicarbonate, Sodium hydrogen carbonate * Sodium lactate, compound solution (Ringer's lactate solution)

Miscellaneous

* Water for injection

Vitamins and minerals

* Ascorbic acid * Calcium supplement, Calcium * ColecalciferolErgocalciferol is an alternative * ErgocalciferolColecalciferol is an alternative * Iodine (medical use), Iodine * Multiple micronutrient powder * Nicotinamide * Pyridoxine * Retinol * Riboflavin * Thiamine Complementary: * Calcium gluconate

Ear, nose and throat medicines

* Acetic acid (medical use), Acetic acid * Budesonide *

Ofloxacin is an alternative * Xylometazoline

Medicines for diseases of joints

Medicines used to treat gout

* Allopurinol

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

* Chloroquine Complementary: * Azathioprine * Hydroxychloroquine * Methotrexate *

* Sulfasalazine

Medicines for juvenile joint diseases

Complementary: * Aspirin, Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)For use for rheumatic fever, juvenile arthritis, Kawasaki disease * Adalimumab * Methotrexate * Triamcinolone hexacetonidetriamcinolone acetonide is an alternative

Dental medicines and preparations

* Fluoride therapy, Fluoride * Glass ionomer cement * Resin-based composite (low-viscosity)of any type for use as dental sealant * Resin-based composite (high-viscosity)of any type for use as dental filling material * Silver diammine fluoride, Silver diamine fluoride

Notes

An α indicates the medicine is on the complementary list for which specialized diagnostic or monitoring or training is needed. An item may also be listed as complementary on the basis of higher costs or a less attractive cost-benefit ratio.

References

External links

* {{DEFAULTSORT:World Health Organization Essential Medicines, List Of World Health Organization essential medicines, Drug-related lists Publications established in 1977 Wikipedia medicine articles ready to translate