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 ...

or diagnostic equipment 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 *

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

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 * Thiopental

Local anaesthetics

* Bupivacaine *

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 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 *

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: * MethadoneFor the management of cancer pain.

Medicines for other common symptoms in palliative care

* Amitriptyline * Cyclizine * Dexamethasone *

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 * Haloperidol * Hyoscine butylbromide * Hyoscine hydrobromide * Lactulose * Loperamide *

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 Dolasetron, granisetron, palonosetron, and tropisetron are alternatives * Senna

Antiallergics and medicines used in anaphylaxis

* Dexamethasone *

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 and fexofenadine 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 *

* Calcium gluconate * Methylthioninium chloride (methylene blue) * Naloxone * Penicillamine *

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 thiosulfate Complementary: * Deferoxamine * Dimercaprol * Fomepizole * Sodium calcium edetate * Succimer

Medicines for diseases of the nervous system

Antiseizure medicines

* Carbamazepine *

* LamotrigineFor 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 * PhenytoinThe 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 (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 *

* Valproic acid (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.

Medicines for multiple sclerosis

Complementary: * Cladribine * Glatiramer acetate *

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 Trihexyphenidyl is an alternative * Levodopa/carbidopa ( levodopa + carbidopa) benserazide 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 *

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 * Niclosamide * Praziquantel * Pyrantel

Antifilarials

* Diethylcarbamazine * Ivermectin

Antischistosomals and other antinematode medicines

* Praziquantel *

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: *

* Mebendazole * Praziquantel

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/clavulanic acid ( amoxicillin + clavulanic acid) *

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 * Benzylpenicillin * Cefalexin * Cefazolin 1 month. * ChloramphenicolOnly for the presumptive treatment of epidemic meningitis in children older than two years and in adults. * Clindamycin * CloxacillinAlternatives 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 * Phenoxymethylpenicillin (penicillin V) * Procaine benzylpenicillinProcaine 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 + trimethoprim) * Trimethoprim

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

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 Erythromycin 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) *

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 * Meropenem 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 * Ceftazidime/avibactam ( ceftazidime + avibactam) * Ceftolozane/tazobactam ( ceftolozane + tazobactam) * Colistin * Fosfomycin * Linezolid Tedizolid phosphate is an alternative * Meropenem/vaborbactam ( meropenem + vaborbactam) * Plazomicin * Polymyxin B

Antileprosy medicines

* Clofazimine *

Dapsone Dapsone, also known as 4,4'-sulfonyldianiline (SDA) or diaminodiphenyl sulfone (DDS), is an antibiotic commonly used in combination with rifampicin and clofazimine for the treatment of leprosy. It is a second-line medication for the treatment an ...

* 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 Moxifloxacin is an antibiotic, used to treat bacterial infections, including pneumonia, conjunctivitis, endocarditis, tuberculosis, and sinusitis. It can be given by mouth, by injection into a vein, and as an eye drop. Common side effec ...

* Pyrazinamide * RifabutinFor use only in patients with HIV receiving protease inhibitors. * Rifampicin * Rifapentine Complementary: *

* Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid ( amoxicillin + clavulanic acid)For use only in combination with meropenem or imipenem/cilastatin. * Bedaquiline * Clofazimine * Cycloserine Terizidone is an alternative * Delamanid * Ethionamide Prothionamide is an alternative * Levofloxacin * Linezolid * Meropenem Imipenem/cilastatin is an alternative *

* P-aminosalicylic acid (p-aminosalicylate sodium) * Pretomanid *

Streptomycin Streptomycin is an antibiotic medication used to treat a number of bacterial infections, including tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium complex, ''Mycobacterium avium'' complex, endocarditis, brucellosis, Burkholderia infection, ''Burkholderia'' i ...

Antifungal medicines

Amphotericin B Amphotericin B is an antifungal medication used for serious fungal infections and leishmaniasis. The fungal infections it is used to treat include mucormycosis, aspergillosis, blastomycosis, candidiasis, coccidioidomycosis, and cryptococ ...

Clotrimazole Clotrimazole, sold under the brand name Lotrimin, among others, is an antifungal medication. It is used to treat vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, diaper rash, tinea versicolor, and types of ringworm including athlete's foot and jock itc ...

* Fluconazole * Flucytosine * Griseofulvin *

Itraconazole Itraconazole, sometimes abbreviated ITZ, is an antifungal medication used to treat a number of fungal infections. This includes aspergillosis, blastomycosis, coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, and paracoccidioidomycosis. It may be given ...

For treatment of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, histoplasmosis, sporotrichosis, paracoccidioidomycosis, mycoses caused by '' Talaromyces marneffei'' and

chromoblastomycosis Chromoblastomycosis is a long-term mycosis, fungal infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (a chronic (medicine), chronic subcutaneous mycosis). It can be caused by many different types of fungi which become implanted under the skin, ofte ...

; and prophylaxis of histoplasmosis and infections caused by ''Talaromyces marneffei'' in AIDS patients. *

Nystatin Nystatin, sold under the brand name Mycostatin among others, is an antifungal medication. It is used to treat ''Candida (fungus), Candida'' infections of the skin including diaper rash, Candidiasis, thrush, esophageal candidiasis, and vaginal ...

* VoriconazoleFor treatment of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis and acute invasive aspergillosis. Complementary: * Micafungin Anidulafungin and caspofungin are alternatives * Potassium iodide

Antiviral medicines

Antiherpes medicines

* Aciclovir Valaciclovir 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 Darunavir (DRV), sold under the brand name Prezista among others, is an antiretroviral medication used to treat and prevent HIV/AIDS. It is generally recommended for use with other antiretrovirals. It is often used with low doses of ritonavir ...

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/tenofovir lamivudine 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 + sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim)

=Other antivirals

= * RibavirinFor the treatment of viral haemorrhagic fevers * ValganciclovirFor the treatment of

cytomegalovirus ''Cytomegalovirus'' (CMV) (from ''cyto-'' 'cell' via Greek - 'container' + 'big, megalo-' + -''virus'' via Latin 'poison') is a genus of viruses in the order '' Herpesvirales'', in the family '' Herpesviridae'', in the subfamily '' Betaherp ...

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

Liposomal 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 Sulfadoxine (also spelled sulphadoxine) is an ultra-long-lasting sulfonamide used in combination with pyrimethamine to treat malaria Malaria is a Mosquito-borne disease, mosquito-borne infectious disease that affects vertebrates and ''A ...

pyrimethamine Pyrimethamine, sold under the brand name Daraprim among others, is a medication used with leucovorin (leucovorin is used to decrease side effects of pyrimethamine; it does not have intrinsic anti-parasitic activity) to treat the parasitic disea ...

. * 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 Quinine is a medication used to treat malaria and babesiosis. This includes the treatment of malaria due to ''Plasmodium falciparum'' that is resistant to chloroquine when artesunate is not available. While sometimes used for nocturnal leg ...

. * Mefloquine * PrimaquineOnly for use to achieve radical cure of ''Plasmodium vivax'' and ''Plasmodium ovale'' infections, given for 14 days. *

Quinine Quinine is a medication used to treat malaria and babesiosis. This includes the treatment of malaria due to ''Plasmodium falciparum'' that is resistant to chloroquine when artesunate is not available. While sometimes used for nocturnal leg ...

For use only in the management of severe malaria, and should be used in combination with

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 ...

. * 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 (

)

Antipneumocystosis and antitoxoplasmosis medicines

Pyrimethamine Pyrimethamine, sold under the brand name Daraprim among others, is a medication used with leucovorin (leucovorin is used to decrease side effects of pyrimethamine; it does not have intrinsic anti-parasitic activity) to treat the parasitic disea ...

* Sulfadiazine * Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim ( 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

* Ivermectin

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 Propranolol is a medication of the beta blocker class. It is used to treat hypertension, high blood pressure, some types of cardiac dysrhythmia, irregular heart rate, thyrotoxicosis, capillary hemangiomas, akathisia, performance anxiety, and ...

Immunomodulators and antineoplastics

Immunomodulators for non-malignant disease

Complementary: * Adalimumab Certolizumab pegol, etanercept, golimumab and

infliximab Infliximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody, sold under the brand name Remicade among others, is a medication used to treat a number of autoimmune diseases. This includes Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing ...

are alternatives, including quality-assured

biosimilar A biosimilar (also known as follow-on biologic or subsequent entry biologic) is a biologic medical product that is almost an identical copy of an original product that is manufactured by a different company. Biosimilars are officially approved ...

s * Azathioprine *

Ciclosporin Ciclosporin, also spelled cyclosporine and cyclosporin, is a calcineurin inhibitor, used as an immunosuppressant medication. It is taken Oral administration, orally or intravenously for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn's disease, nephr ...

Tacrolimus Tacrolimus, sold under the brand name Prograf among others, is an immunosuppressive drug. After Allotransplantation, allogenic organ transplant, the risk of organ Transplant rejection, rejection is moderate. To lower the risk of organ rejectio ...

Antineoplastics and supportive medicines

Cytotoxic medicines

Complementary: * Arsenic trioxide *

Asparaginase Asparaginase is an enzyme that is used as a medication and in food manufacturing. As a medication, L-asparaginase is used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL). It is given by intravenous, injection into ...

* Bendamustine * Bleomycin * Calcium folinate (leucovorin calcium) *

Capecitabine Capecitabine, sold under the brand name Xeloda among others, is a anticancer medication used to treat breast cancer, gastric cancer and colorectal cancer. For breast cancer it is often used together with docetaxel. It is taken by mouth. ...

* Carboplatin * Chlorambucil *

Cisplatin Cisplatin is a chemical compound with chemical formula, formula ''cis''-. It is a coordination complex of platinum that is used as a chemotherapy medication used to treat a number of cancers. These include testicular cancer, ovarian cancer, c ...

* Cyclophosphamide * Cytarabine * Dacarbazine * Dactinomycin * Daunorubicin *

Docetaxel Docetaxel (DTX or DXL), sold under the brand name Taxotere among others, is a chemotherapy medication used to treat a number of types of cancer. This includes breast cancer, head and neck cancer, stomach cancer, prostate cancer and non-small-cel ...

* Doxorubicin * Doxorubicin (as pegylated liposomal) *

Etoposide Etoposide, sold under the brand name Vepesid among others, is a chemotherapy medication used for the treatments of a number of types of cancer including testicular cancer, lung cancer, lymphoma, leukemia, neuroblastoma, and ovarian cancer. It is ...

* Fludarabine * Fluorouracil * Gemcitabine * Hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea) * Ifosfamide * Irinotecan * Melphalan * Mercaptopurine * Methotrexate *

Oxaliplatin Oxaliplatin, sold under the brand name Eloxatin among others, is a cancer medication (platinum-based antineoplastic class) used to treat colorectal cancer. It is given by intravenous, infusion into a vein. Common side effects include paresth ...

* Paclitaxel * PegaspargaseIncluding quality-assured biosimilars * Procarbazine * Realgar ''Indigo naturalis'' formulation * Tioguanine * Vinblastine *

Vincristine Vincristine, also known as leurocristine and sold under the brand name Oncovin among others, is a chemotherapy medication used to treat a number of types of cancer. This includes acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, Hodgkin lym ...

* Vinorelbine

Targeted therapies

Complementary: * All-trans retinoic acid (

tretinoin Tretinoin, also known as all-''trans'' retinoic acid (ATRA), is a medication used for the treatment of acne and acute promyelocytic leukemia. For acne, it is applied to the skin as a cream, gel or ointment. For acute promyelocytic leukemia, ...

) (ATRA) * Bortezomib * Dasatinib * Erlotinib Afatinib and

gefitinib Gefitinib, sold under the brand name Iressa, is a medication used for certain breast, lung and other cancers. Gefitinib is an EGFR inhibitor, like erlotinib, which interrupts signaling through the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in targe ...

are alternatives * Everolimus * Ibrutinib * Imatinib * Nilotinib *

Trastuzumab Trastuzumab, sold under the brand name Herceptin among others, is a monoclonal antibody used to treat breast cancer and stomach cancer. It is specifically used for cancer that is HER2 receptor positive. It may be used by itself or together ...

Immunomodulators

Complementary: * Filgrastim * Lenalidomide * Nivolumab Pembrolizumab is an alternative, including quality-assured

s * Pegfilgrastim *

Thalidomide Thalidomide, sold under the brand names Contergan and Thalomid among others, is an oral administered medication used to treat a number of cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma), graft-versus-host disease, and many skin disorders (e.g., complication ...

Hormones and antihormones

Complementary: * Abiraterone Enzalutamide is an alternative * AnastrozoleAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( L02BG Aromatase inhibitors) * Bicalutamide Flutamide and nilutamide are alternatives * Dexamethasone *

* Leuprorelin Goserelin and triptorelin are alternatives * Methylprednisolone *

is an alternative *

Tamoxifen Tamoxifen, sold under the brand name Nolvadex among others, is a selective estrogen receptor modulator used to prevent breast cancer in women and men. It is also being studied for other types of cancer. It has been used for Albright syndrome ...

Supportive medicines

Complementary: *

Allopurinol Allopurinol is a medication used to decrease hyperuricemia, high blood uric acid levels. It is specifically used to prevent gout, prevent specific types of kidney stones and for the high uric acid levels that can occur with chemotherapy. It i ...

* 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 The is a collection of internationally recognized standards, codes of practice, guidelines, and other recommendations published by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO) of the United Nations relating to f ...

guidelines.

Medicines affecting the blood

Antianaemia medicines

* Ferrous salt * Ferrous salt/folic acid ( ferrous salt +

folic acid Folate, also known as vitamin B9 and folacin, is one of the B vitamins. Manufactured folic acid, which is converted into folate by the body, is used as a dietary supplement and in food fortification as it is more stable during processing and ...

) *

Folic acid Folate, also known as vitamin B9 and folacin, is one of the B vitamins. Manufactured folic acid, which is converted into folate by the body, is used as a dietary supplement and in food fortification as it is more stable during processing and ...

periconceptual use for prevention of first occurrence of neural tube defects * Hydroxocobalamin Complementary: * Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents Epoetin alfa,

beta Beta (, ; uppercase , lowercase , or cursive ; or ) is the second letter of the Greek alphabet. In the system of Greek numerals, it has a value of 2. In Ancient Greek, beta represented the voiced bilabial plosive . In Modern Greek, it represe ...

and

theta Theta (, ) uppercase Θ or ; lowercase θ or ; ''thē̂ta'' ; Modern: ''thī́ta'' ) is the eighth letter of the Greek alphabet, derived from the Phoenician letter Teth 𐤈. In the system of Greek numerals, it has a value of 9. Gree ...

; darbepoetin alfa; methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta; and their quality-assured biosimilars are alternatives

Medicines affecting coagulation

Dabigatran Dabigatran, sold under the brand name Pradaxa among others, is an anticoagulant used to treat and prevent blood clots and to prevent stroke in people with atrial fibrillation. It is commonly used to prevent blood clots following hip or kn ...

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

Warfarin Warfarin, sold under the brand name Coumadin among others. It is used as an anticoagulant, anticoagulant medication. It is commonly used to prevent deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, and to protect against stroke in people who ha ...

Complementary: * Desmopressin * Heparin sodium * Protamine sulfate *

Other medicines for haemoglobinopathies

* Deferasirox Deferiprone is an alternative Complementary: * Deferoxamine * 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 *

Platelets Platelets or thrombocytes () are a part of blood whose function (along with the coagulation factors) is to react to bleeding from blood vessel injury by clumping to form a blood clot. Platelets have no cell nucleus; they are fragments of cyto ...

* Red blood cells * Whole blood

Plasma-derived medicines

Human immunoglobulins

* Rho(D) immune globulin (anti-D immunoglobulin) *

Anti-rabies immunoglobulin Rabies, a viral zoonotic neglected tropical disease, poses a severe public health threat in over 150 countries and territories, primarily in Asia and Africa. Each year, this disease results in tens of thousands of fatalities, with children unde ...

* Anti-tetanus immunoglobulin Complementary: * Normal immunoglobulin

Blood coagulation factors

Complementary: * Coagulation factor VIII * Coagulation factor IXcoagulation factor IX complex is an alternative

Plasma substitutes

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

Cardiovascular medicines

Antianginal medicines

* Bisoprolol Carvedilol and metoprolol are alternatives *

Glyceryl trinitrate Nitroglycerin (NG) (alternative spelling nitroglycerine), also known as trinitroglycerol (TNG), nitro, glyceryl trinitrate (GTN), or 1,2,3-trinitroxypropane, is a dense, colorless or pale yellow, oily, explosive liquid most commonly produced by ...

* Isosorbide dinitrate * Verapamil

Antiarrhythmic medicines

* Bisoprolol *

Digoxin Digoxin (better known as digitalis), sold under the brand name Lanoxin among others, is a medication used to treat various heart disease, heart conditions. Most frequently it is used for atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and heart failure. ...

(adrenaline) *

* Verapamil Complementary: *

Amiodarone Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic medication used to treat and prevent a number of types of cardiac dysrhythmias. This includes ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and wide complex tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, and paroxys ...

Antihypertensive medicines

Amlodipine Amlodipine, sold under the brand name Norvasc among others, is a calcium channel blocker medication used to treat hypertension, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease (CAD) and variant angina (also called Prinzmetal angina or coronary ar ...

Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C08CA Dihydropyridine derivatives) * BisoprololIncludes

atenolol Atenolol is a beta blocker medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure and angina, heart-associated chest pain. Although used to treat high blood pressure, it does not seem to improve mortality rate, mortality in those with the condi ...

, carvedilol, and metoprolol as alternatives. Atenolol should not be used as a first-line agent in uncomplicated hypertension in patients > 60 years. *

Enalapril Enalapril, sold under the brand name Vasotec among others, is an ACE inhibitor medication used to treat high blood pressure, diabetic kidney disease, and heart failure. For heart failure, it is generally used with a diuretic, such as furosem ...

Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( 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. *

Hydrochlorothiazide Hydrochlorothiazide, sold under the brand name Hydrodiuril among others, is a diuretic medication used to treat hypertension and swelling due to fluid build-up. Other uses include treating diabetes insipidus and renal tubular acidosis and t ...

Chlorothiazide, chlorthalidone, and indapamide are alternatives * Lisinopril/amlodipine ( lisinopril +

amlodipine Amlodipine, sold under the brand name Norvasc among others, is a calcium channel blocker medication used to treat hypertension, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease (CAD) and variant angina (also called Prinzmetal angina or coronary ar ...

)Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) (for lisinopril) and 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C08CA Dihydropyridine derivatives) (for amlodipine) * Lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide ( lisinopril +

hydrochlorothiazide Hydrochlorothiazide, sold under the brand name Hydrodiuril among others, is a diuretic medication used to treat hypertension and swelling due to fluid build-up. Other uses include treating diabetes insipidus and renal tubular acidosis and t ...

)Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) (for lisinopril) and chlorthalidone, chlorothiazide, indapamide (for hydrochlorothiazide) * LosartanAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( 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 +

)Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C09CA Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), plain) (for telmisartan) and 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C08CA Dihydropyridine derivatives) (for amlodipine) * Telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide ( telmisartan +

)Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C09CA Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), plain) (for telmisartan) and chlorthalidone, chlorothiazide, indapamide (for hydrochlorothiazide) Complementary: * Sodium nitroprusside

Medicines used in heart failure

* Bisoprolol *

Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) * Furosemide Bumetanide and

torasemide Torasemide, also known as torsemide, is a diuretic medication used to treat hypervolemia, fluid overload due to heart failure, kidney disease, and liver disease. It is a less preferred treatment for high blood pressure. It is taken by mouth or ...

are alternatives *

* Losartan * Spironolactone Complementary: *

Dopamine Dopamine (DA, a contraction of 3,4-dihydroxyphenethylamine) is a neuromodulatory molecule that plays several important roles in cells. It is an organic chemical of the catecholamine and phenethylamine families. It is an amine synthesized ...

Antithrombotic medicines

Anti-platelet medicines

(aspirin) *

Clopidogrel Clopidogrel, sold under the brand name Plavix among others, is an antiplatelet drug, antiplatelet medication used to reduce the risk of Cardiovascular disease, heart disease and stroke in those at high risk. It is also used together with aspi ...

Thrombolytic medicines

Complementary: * Alteplase *

Streptokinase Streptokinase is a thrombolysis, thrombolytic medication activating plasminogen by nonenzymatic mechanism. As a medication it is used to thrombolysis, break down clots in some cases of myocardial infarction (heart attack), pulmonary embolism, an ...

Lipid-lowering agents

Simvastatin Simvastatin, sold under the brand name Zocor among others, is a statin, a type of lipid-lowering medication. It is used along with exercise, diet, and weight loss to decrease hyperlipidemia, elevated lipid levels. It is also used to decrease t ...

For use in high‐risk patients.

Atorvastatin Atorvastatin, sold under the brand name Lipitor among others, is a statin medication used to prevent cardiovascular disease in those at high risk and to treat abnormal lipid levels. For the prevention of cardiovascular disease, statins are a ...

, fluvastatin, lovastatin, and pravastatin are alternatives

Fixed-dose combinations for prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

* Acetylsalicylic acid/atorvastatin/ramipril (

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 ...

atorvastatin Atorvastatin, sold under the brand name Lipitor among others, is a statin medication used to prevent cardiovascular disease in those at high risk and to treat abnormal lipid levels. For the prevention of cardiovascular disease, statins are a ...

+ ramipril) fluvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin, and

simvastatin Simvastatin, sold under the brand name Zocor among others, is a statin, a type of lipid-lowering medication. It is used along with exercise, diet, and weight loss to decrease hyperlipidemia, elevated lipid levels. It is also used to decrease t ...

are alternatives for atorvastatin4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) are alternatives for ramipril * Acetylsalicylic acid/simvastatin/ramipril/atenolol/hydrochlorothiazide (

+ ramipril +

)

, fluvastatin, lovastatin, and pravastatin are alternatives for simvastatin bisoprolol, carvedilol, and metoprolol are alternatives for atenolol chlorthalidone, chlorothiazide, and indapamide are alternatives for hydrochlorothiazide * Atorvastatin/perindopril/amlodipine (

+ perindopril +

)4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) are alternatives for perindopril4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( C08CA Dihydropyridine derivatives) are alternatives for amlodipine

Dermatological medicines (topical)

Antifungal medicines

* MiconazoleAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( D01AC Imidazole and triazole derivatives) excluding combinations * Selenium sulfide * Sodium thiosulfate *

Terbinafine Terbinafine, sold under the brand name Lamisil among others, is an antifungal medication used to treat pityriasis versicolor, onychomycosis, fungal nail infections, and ringworm including jock itch and athlete's foot. It is either oral adminis ...

Anti-infective medicines

* Mupirocin * Potassium permanganate * Silver sulfadiazine

Anti-inflammatory and antipruritic medicines

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

Calamine Calamine, also known as calamine lotion, is a medication made from powdered calamine (mineral), calamine mineral that is used to treat mild itchiness. Conditions treated include sunburn, insect bites, Toxicodendron radicans, poison ivy, poiso ...

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

Medicines affecting skin differentiation and proliferation

* Benzoyl peroxide * Calcipotriol

Calcitriol Calcitriol is a hormone and the active form of vitamin D, normally made in the kidney. It is also known as 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol. It binds to and activates the vitamin D receptor in the nucleus of the cell, which then increases the exp ...

and tacalcitol are alternatives *

Coal tar Coal tar is a thick dark liquid which is a by-product of the production of coke and coal gas from coal. It is a type of creosote. It has both medical and industrial uses. Medicinally it is a topical medication applied to skin to treat psoria ...

* Fluorouracil * Podophyllum resin Podophyllotoxin is an alternative *

Salicylic acid Salicylic acid is an organic compound with the formula HOC6H4COOH. A colorless (or white), bitter-tasting solid, it is a precursor to and a active metabolite, metabolite of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin). It is a plant hormone, and has been lis ...

Urea Urea, also called carbamide (because it is a diamide of carbonic acid), is an organic compound with chemical formula . This amide has two Amine, amino groups (–) joined by a carbonyl functional group (–C(=O)–). It is thus the simplest am ...

Complementary: * Methotrexate

Scabicides and pediculicides

* Benzyl benzoateprecipitated sulfur topical ointment is an alternative *

Permethrin Permethrin is a medication and an insecticide. As a medication, it is used to treat scabies and lice. It is applied to the skin as a cream or lotion. As an insecticide, it can be sprayed onto outer clothing or mosquito nets to kill the insects ...

Diagnostic agents

Ophthalmic medicines

* Fluorescein *

Tropicamide Tropicamide, sold under the brand name Mydriacyl among others, is a medication used to dilate the pupil and help with the examination of the eye. Specifically it is used to help examine the back of the eye. It is applied as eye drops. Effect ...

and

cyclopentolate Cyclopentolate is a muscarinic antagonist. It is commonly used as an eye drop during pediatric eye examinations to dilate the eye (mydriatic) and prevent the eye from focusing/Accommodation (eye), accommodating (cycloplegia, cycloplegic). Cyclop ...

are alternatives

Radiocontrast media

* Amidotrizoate *

Barium sulfate Barium sulfate (or sulphate) is the inorganic compound with the chemical formula Ba SO4. It is a white crystalline solid that is odorless and insoluble in water. It occurs in nature as the mineral barite, which is the main commercial source of ...

* Iohexol Complementary: *

* Meglumine iotroxate

Antiseptics and disinfectants

Antiseptics

Chlorhexidine Chlorhexidine is a disinfectant and antiseptic which is used for skin disinfection before surgery and to disinfect surgical instruments. It is also used for cleaning wounds, preventing dental plaque, treating yeast infections of the mouth, and ...

Ethanol Ethanol (also called ethyl alcohol, grain alcohol, drinking alcohol, or simply alcohol) is an organic compound with the chemical formula . It is an Alcohol (chemistry), alcohol, with its formula also written as , or EtOH, where Et is the ps ...

Propanol There are two isomers of propanol. * 1-Propanol, ''n''-propanol, or propan-1-ol: CH3CH2CH2OH, the most common meaning *2-Propanol, isopropyl alcohol, isopropanol, or propan-2-ol: (CH3)2CHOH See also * Propanal (propionaldehyde) differs in spel ...

is an alternative * Povidone iodine

Iodine Iodine is a chemical element; it has symbol I and atomic number 53. The heaviest of the stable halogens, it exists at standard conditions as a semi-lustrous, non-metallic solid that melts to form a deep violet liquid at , and boils to a vi ...

is an alternative

Disinfectants

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

Diuretics

* Amiloride * Furosemide Bumetanide and

are alternatives *

* Mannitol * Spironolactone Complementary: *

Chlorothiazide and chlorthalidone are alternatives * Mannitol * Spironolactone

Gastrointestinal medicines

Complementary: * Pancreatic enzymes

Antiulcer medicines

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

Antiemetic medicines

* Dexamethasone *

* Ondansetron Complementary: * Aprepitant

Anti-inflammatory medicines

* Sulfasalazine

Mesalazine Mesalazine, also known as mesalamine or 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA), is a medication used to treat inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It is generally used for mildly to moderately severe disease. I ...

is an alternative Complementary: *

Laxatives

* Senna Bisacodyl is an alternative

Medicines used in diarrhoea

* Oral rehydration salts +

zinc sulfate Zinc sulfate is an inorganic compound with the formula ZnSO4. It forms hydrates ZnSO4·''n''H2O, where ''n'' can range from 0 to 7. All are colorless solids. The most common form includes water of crystallization as the heptahydrate, with the che ...

(Co-packaged)

Oral rehydration

* Oral rehydration salts

Medicines for diarrhoea

Zinc sulfate Zinc sulfate is an inorganic compound with the formula ZnSO4. It forms hydrates ZnSO4·''n''H2O, where ''n'' can range from 0 to 7. All are colorless solids. The most common form includes water of crystallization as the heptahydrate, with the che ...

In 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 Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and androgen in Male, males. In humans, testosterone plays a key role in the development of Male reproductive system, male reproductive tissues such as testicles and prostate, as well as promoting se ...

Estrogens

No listings in this section.

Progestogens

* Medroxyprogesterone acetate

Norethisterone Norethisterone, also known as norethindrone and sold under the brand name Norlutin among others, is a progestin medication used in birth control pills, menopausal hormone therapy, and for the treatment of gynecological disorders. The medicatio ...

is an alternative

Medicines for diabetes

Insulins

* Insulin injection (soluble) * Intermediate-acting insulin * Long-acting insulin analogues Insulin degludec, insulin detemir, and

insulin glargine Insulin glargine sold under the brand name Lantus among others is a long-acting modified form of medical insulin, used in the management of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is injected just under the skin. Effects generally begin an hour af ...

, including quality-assured biosimilars are alternatives

Oral hypoglycaemic agents

* Empagliflozin Canagliflozin and dapagliflozin are alternatives * GliclazideGlibenclamide not suitable above 60 years. Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( A10BB Sulfonylureas) * Metformin Complementary: * Metformin

Medicines for hypoglycaemia

* Glucagon Complementary: * Diazoxide

Thyroid hormones and antithyroid medicines

* Levothyroxine * Potassium iodide * Methimazole Carbimazole 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

* Cabergoline bromocriptine 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 * Equine rabies immunoglobulin

Vaccines

Recommendations for all * BCG vaccine * Diphtheria vaccine * Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine *

Hepatitis B vaccine Hepatitis B vaccine is a vaccine that prevents hepatitis B. The first dose is recommended within 24 hours of birth with either two or three more doses given after that. This includes those with poor immune function such as from HIV/AIDS and ...

* 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 The rabies vaccine is a vaccine used to prevent rabies. There are several rabies vaccines available that are both safe and effective. Vaccinations must be administered prior to rabies virus exposure or within the Latent period (epidemiology), l ...

Typhoid vaccine Typhoid vaccines are vaccines that prevent typhoid fever. Several types are widely available: typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV), Ty21a (a live oral vaccine) and Vi capsular polysaccharide vaccine (ViPS) (an injectable subunit vaccine). Dep ...

Recommendations for immunization programmes with certain characteristics *

Influenza vaccine Influenza vaccines, colloquially known as flu shots or the flu jab, are vaccines that protect against infection by influenza viruses. New versions of the vaccines are developed twice a year, as the influenza virus rapidly changes. While their ...

(seasonal)Recommended only for immunization programmes with certain characteristics * Mumps vaccine * Varicella vaccine

Muscle relaxants (peripherally-acting) and cholinesterase inhibitors

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

Ophthalmological preparations

Anti-infective agents

* Aciclovir *

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

kanamycin Kanamycin A, often referred to simply as kanamycin, is an antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections and tuberculosis. It is not a first line treatment. It is used by mouth, injection into a vein, or injection into a muscle. Kanamy ...

, netilmicin, and

tobramycin Tobramycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic derived from '' Streptomyces tenebrarius'' that is used to treat various types of bacterial infections, particularly Gram-negative infections. It is especially effective against species of ''Pseudomo ...

are alternatives * Natamycin *

Ofloxacin Ofloxacin is a quinolone antibiotic useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. When taken Oral administration, by mouth or intravenous, injection into a vein, these include pneumonia, cellulitis, urinary tract infections, prost ...

Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( S01AE Fluoroquinolones) * Tetracycline Chlortetracycline and oxytetracycline are alternatives

Anti-inflammatory agents

Local anesthetics

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

Miotics and antiglaucoma medicines

* Acetazolamide * Latanoprost * Pilocarpine

Carbachol Carbachol, also known as carbamylcholine and sold under the brand name Miostat among others, is a cholinomimetic drug that binds and activates acetylcholine receptors. Thus it is classified as a cholinergic agonist. It is primarily used for v ...

is an alternative *

Timolol Timolol is a beta blocker medication used either by mouth or as eye drops. As eye drops it is used to treat increased pressure inside the eye such as in ocular hypertension and glaucoma. By mouth it is used for high blood pressure, chest ...

Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( 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 Norethisterone, also known as norethindrone and sold under the brand name Norlutin among others, is a progestin medication used in birth control pills, menopausal hormone therapy, and for the treatment of gynecological disorders. The medicatio ...

) * Levonorgestrel * Ulipristal

Injectable hormonal contraceptives

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

Intrauterine devices

* Copper-containing device * Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system

Barrier methods

Condom A condom is a sheath-shaped Barrier contraception, barrier device used during sexual intercourse to reduce the probability of pregnancy or a Sexually transmitted disease, sexually transmitted infection (STI). There are both external condo ...

s * Diaphragms

Implantable contraceptives

* 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 * Letrozole anastrozole is an alternative

Uterotonics

* Carbetocin * Ergometrine Methylergometrine is an alternative *

Mifepristone Mifepristone, and also known by its developmental code name RU-486, is a drug typically used in combination with misoprostol to bring about a medical abortion during pregnancy. This combination is 97% effective during the first 63 days (9 wee ...

+ misoprostol (Co-packaged)Where permitted under national law and where culturally acceptable. * MisoprostolOnly for use for induction of labour where appropriate facilities are available. *

Oxytocin Oxytocin is a peptide hormone and neuropeptide normally produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. Present in animals since early stages of evolution, in humans it plays roles in behavior that include Human bonding, ...

Antioxytocics (tocolytics)

* Nifedipine

Other medicines administered to the mother

* Dexamethasone * Multiple micronutrient supplement * Tranexamic acid

Medicines administered to the neonate

* Caffeine citrate *

Complementary: *

Indometacin is an alternative * Prostaglandin E1 Prostaglandin E2 is an alternative *

Surfactant Surfactants are chemical compounds that decrease the surface tension or interfacial tension between two liquids, a liquid and a gas, or a liquid and a solid. The word ''surfactant'' is a Blend word, blend of "surface-active agent", coined in ...

Peritoneal dialysis solution

Complementary: * Intraperitoneal dialysis solution (of appropriate composition)

Medicines for mental and behavioural disorders

Medicines used in psychotic disorders

* Fluphenazine haloperidol decanonate and zuclopenthixol decanonate are alternatives * Haloperidol

Chlorpromazine Chlorpromazine (CPZ), marketed under the brand names Thorazine and Largactil among others, is an antipsychotic medication. It is primarily used to treat psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Other uses include the treatment of bipolar d ...

is an alternative for the tablet * Olanzapine * Paliperidone

Risperidone Risperidone, sold under the brand name Risperdal among others, is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, as well as aggressive and self-injurious behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder. It is t ...

injection is an alternative *

aripiprazole, olanzapine, paliperidone, and quetiapine are alternatives Complementary: * Clozapine

Medicines used in mood disorders

Medicines used in depressive disorders

* Amitriptyline * Fluoxetine Citalopram,

escitalopram Escitalopram ( ), sold under the brand names Lexapro and Cipralex, among others, is an antidepressant medication of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. It is mainly used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized ...

, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and

sertraline Sertraline, sold under the brand name Zoloft among others, is an Antidepressant, antidepressant medication of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, socia ...

are alternatives

Medicines used in bipolar disorders

* Carbamazepine *

Lithium carbonate Lithium carbonate is an inorganic compound, the lithium salt of carbonic acid with the chemical formula, formula . This white Salt (chemistry), salt is widely used in processing metal oxides. It is on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, Wor ...

* Quetiapine aripiprazole, olanzapine, and paliperidone are alternatives * Valproic acid (sodium valproate)

Medicines for anxiety disorders

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 ...

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

Medicines used for obsessive compulsive disorders

* Clomipramine * Fluoxetine

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: * Methadone 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

* Budesonide Beclometasone, 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 * Salbutamol Terbutaline is an alternative * Tiotropium Aclidinium, glycopyrronium, and umeclidinium are alternatives

Solutions correcting water, electrolyte and acid-base disturbances

Oral

* Oral rehydration salts * Potassium chloride

Parenteral

Glucose Glucose is a sugar with the Chemical formula#Molecular formula, molecular formula , which is often abbreviated as Glc. It is overall the most abundant monosaccharide, a subcategory of carbohydrates. It is mainly made by plants and most algae d ...

* Glucose with sodium chloride * Potassium chloride *

Sodium chloride Sodium chloride , commonly known as Salt#Edible salt, edible salt, is an ionic compound with the chemical formula NaCl, representing a 1:1 ratio of sodium and chloride ions. It is transparent or translucent, brittle, hygroscopic, and occurs a ...

* Sodium hydrogen carbonate * Sodium lactate, compound solution (Ringer's lactate solution)

Miscellaneous

* Water for injection

Vitamins and minerals

Ascorbic acid Ascorbic acid is an organic compound with formula , originally called hexuronic acid. It is a white solid, but impure samples can appear yellowish. It dissolves freely in water to give mildly acidic solutions. It is a mild reducing agent. Asco ...

Calcium Calcium is a chemical element; it has symbol Ca and atomic number 20. As an alkaline earth metal, calcium is a reactive metal that forms a dark oxide-nitride layer when exposed to air. Its physical and chemical properties are most similar to it ...

* Colecalciferol Ergocalciferol is an alternative * Ergocalciferol Colecalciferol is an alternative *

* Multiple micronutrient powder *

Nicotinamide Nicotinamide (International nonproprietary name, INN, British Approved Name, BAN ) or niacinamide (United States Adopted Name, USAN ) is a form of vitamin B3, vitamin B3 found in food and used as a dietary supplement and medication. As a suppl ...

* Pyridoxine *

Retinol Retinol, also called vitamin A1, is a fat-soluble vitamin in the vitamin A family that is found in food and used as a dietary supplement. Retinol or other forms of vitamin A are needed for vision, cellular development, maintenance of skin and ...

Riboflavin Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a vitamin found in food and sold as a dietary supplement. It is essential to the formation of two major coenzymes, flavin mononucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide. These coenzymes are involved in ...

Thiamine Thiamine, also known as thiamin and vitamin B1, is a vitamin – an Nutrient#Micronutrients, essential micronutrient for humans and animals. It is found in food and commercially synthesized to be a dietary supplement or medication. Phosp ...

Complementary: * Calcium gluconate

Ear, nose and throat medicines

Acetic acid Acetic acid , systematically named ethanoic acid , is an acidic, colourless liquid and organic compound with the chemical formula (also written as , , or ). Vinegar is at least 4% acetic acid by volume, making acetic acid the main compone ...

* Budesonide *

is an alternative * Xylometazoline

Medicines for diseases of joints

Medicines used to treat gout

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

* Chloroquine Complementary: * Azathioprine * Hydroxychloroquine * Methotrexate * Penicillamine * Sulfasalazine

Medicines for juvenile joint diseases

Complementary: *

(aspirin)For use for rheumatic fever, juvenile arthritis, Kawasaki disease * Adalimumab * Methotrexate * Triamcinolone hexacetonide

triamcinolone acetonide Triamcinolone acetonide, sold under the brand name Kenalog among others, is a synthetic compound, synthetic corticosteroid medication used topical medication, topically to treat various skin conditions, to relieve the discomfort of mouth sores, ...

is an alternative

Dental medicines and preparations

Fluoride Fluoride (). According to this source, is a possible pronunciation in British English. is an Inorganic chemistry, inorganic, Monatomic ion, monatomic Ion#Anions and cations, anion of fluorine, with the chemical formula (also written ), whose ...

* 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 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 Drug-related lists Publications established in 1977 Wikipedia medicine articles ready to translate