Comprehensive Medication Guide

A quick reference guide listing 30 common antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitic, including their dose, indications, and warnings.

1. Antibiotics

1.1. Amoxicillin

Dose: Adults- 500mg every 8 hours or 875mg every 12 hours
Indications: Respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), otitis media
Warnings: May cause allergic reactions in penicillin-sensitive patients. Report severe diarrhea as it could indicate C. difficile infection.

1.2. Azithromycin

Dose: 500mg on day 1, then 250mg once daily for 4 days
Indications: Respiratory infections, skin infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Warnings: Use cautiously in patients with a history of arrhythmias. Can cause QT prolongation.

1.3. Ciprofloxacin

Dose: 500-750mg every 12 hours
Indications: UTIs, gastroenteritis, sinusitis, bone/joint infections
Warnings: Avoid in children and pregnant women due to risk of tendon rupture. Watch for photosensitivity.

1.4. Doxycycline

Dose: 100mg every 12 hours
Indications: Acne, Lyme disease, malaria prophylaxis, respiratory infections
Warnings: Avoid sun exposure as it may cause photosensitivity. Not recommended during pregnancy.

1.5. Cephalexin

Dose: 250-500mg every 6 hours
Indications: Skin infections, UTIs, respiratory infections
Warnings: Cross-reactivity may occur in patients allergic to penicillins.

1.6. Metronidazole

Dose: 500mg every 8 hours
Indications: C. difficile colitis, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis
Warnings: Avoid alcohol during and 48 hours after therapy, as it can cause a disulfiram-like reaction.

1.7. Clindamycin

Dose: 300-450mg every 6-8 hours
Indications: Skin infections, bone infections, anaerobic infections
Warnings: Risk of C. difficile-associated diarrhea.

1.8. Levofloxacin

Dose: 500-750mg once daily
Indications: Respiratory infections, UTIs, pyelonephritis
Warnings: Use caution in patients with known QT prolongation.

1.9. Vancomycin

Dose: IV- 15-20 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
Indications: MRSA infections, C. difficile colitis (oral)
Warnings: Risk of "Red-man syndrome" if infused too rapidly. Requires close renal function monitoring.

1.10. Nitrofurantoin

Dose: 100mg every 12 hours
Indications: UTIs
Warnings: Contraindicated in renal impairment.

2. Antivirals

2.1. Acyclovir

Dose: 400mg every 8 hours (oral)
Indications: Herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella-zoster virus infections
Warnings: Ensure proper hydration to prevent nephrotoxicity.

2.2. Valacyclovir

Dose: 1g every 12 hours
Indications: HSV, shingles (herpes zoster)
Warnings: May cause headache, nausea, or abdominal pain.

2.3. Oseltamivir

Dose: 75mg twice daily for 5 days
Indications: Influenza treatment or prophylaxis
Warnings: Can cause nausea, vomiting; most effective within 48 hours of symptom onset.

2.4. Remdesivir

Dose: IV- 200mg on day 1, then 100mg daily for 5-10 days
Indications: COVID-19 treatment
Warnings: Monitor liver function; avoid in patients with severe renal impairment.

2.5. Lamivudine

Dose: 150mg twice daily or 300mg once daily
Indications: HIV, chronic hepatitis B
Warnings: Use caution in patients with lactic acidosis or hepatic issues.

3. Antifungals

3.1. Fluconazole

Dose: 150mg once weekly or 200-400mg daily for systemic infections
Indications: Candidiasis, cryptococcal meningitis
Warnings: May cause liver enzyme elevation. Monitor for hepatotoxicity.

3.2. Terbinafine

Dose: 250mg once daily
Indications: Onychomycosis, tinea infections
Warnings: Can cause liver damage; monitor liver function tests.

3.3. Voriconazole

Dose: 6mg/kg IV every 12 hours for 2 doses, then 4mg/kg IV every 12 hours
Indications: Aspergillosis, serious candida infections
Warnings: Visual disturbances are a common side effect.

3.4. Nystatin

Dose: Oral suspension- 400,000-600,000 units 4 times daily
Indications: Oral thrush, cutaneous fungal infections
Warnings: Rarely causes gastrointestinal upset.

3.5. Amphotericin B

Dose: IV- 0.25-1mg/kg daily
Indications: Severe systemic fungal infections
Warnings: Risk of nephrotoxicity and electrolyte imbalance, notably hypokalemia.

4. Antiparasitics

4.1. Hydroxychloroquine

Dose: 400mg daily
Indications: Malaria prophylaxis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus
Warnings: Can cause retinopathy; regular eye exams necessary.

4.2. Albendazole

Dose: 400mg as a single dose for many parasitic infections
Indications: Neurocysticercosis, hydatid disease, intestinal worms
Warnings: Use caution in patients with hepatic impairment.

4.3. Ivermectin

Dose: 150-200 mcg/kg as a single dose
Indications: Strongyloidiasis, onchocerciasis, head lice
Warnings: May cause dizziness or allergic-like reactions due to parasite death.

4.4. Metronidazole (Antiparasitic Use)

Dose: 500mg every 8 hours for 7 days
Indications: Giardia, amoebiasis, trichomoniasis
Warnings: Avoid alcohol during and after treatment.

4.5. Praziquantel

Dose: 20mg/kg 3 times daily for 1 day
Indications: Schistosomiasis, tapeworm infections
Warnings: Can cause dizziness and malaise; avoid activities requiring alertness.

4.6. Permethrin (Cream)

Dose: Apply to affected area, leave for 8-14 hours, wash off
Indications: Scabies, head lice
Warnings: Avoid contact with eyes; may cause scalp or skin irritation.

4.7. Chloroquine

Dose: 600mg base, then 300mg base 6-8 hours later
Indications: Malaria prevention and treatment
Warnings: Long-term use may cause retinopathy; monitor renal and liver function.

4.8. Paromomycin

Dose: 25-35mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses
Indications: Intestinal amoebiasis, leishmaniasis (off-label)
Warnings: Can cause nephrotoxicity and gastrointestinal upset.

This guide provides general information. For specific dosing and recommendations, consult a healthcare professional. It is important to always follow the prescribed treatment plan and complete the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve. Failure to do so can lead to incomplete eradication of parasites and recurrence of infection. In some cases, repeat or additional treatments may be necessary.

In addition to these medications, there are also preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of parasitic infections. These include:

Practicing good hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water.
Avoiding consumption of contaminated food and water.
Using insect repellent when in areas known for high prevalence of certain parasites.
Wearing protective clothing (such as long sleeves and pants) to prevent bites from disease-carrying insects.
Properly treating and disposing of waste to prevent exposure to parasites.

It is also important for individuals traveling to areas with a high prevalence of parasitic infections to take extra precautions and seek medical advice before and after their trip. This may include taking prophylactic medication and getting tested for any potential infections upon return.

In conclusion, parasitic infections can cause significant harm if left untreated, but proper treatment and preventive measures can effectively eradicate these parasites and prevent future infections. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations and follow all prescribed treatments accordingly. By taking proactive steps, we can protect ourselves from the dangers of parasitic diseases. So, it is crucial to practice good hygiene and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of parasitic infections. With proper treatment and precautions, we can all live healthier and safer lives. Remember to always seek medical advice if you suspect a parasitic infection and never self-diagnose or self-medicate. Stay informed and stay protected! So, it is crucial to practice good hygiene and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of parasitic infections. With proper treatment and precautions, we can all live healthier and safer lives. Remember to always seek medical advice if you suspect a parasitic infection and never self-diagnose or self-medicate. Stay informed and stay protected! While most people may not think about parasites on a daily basis, being aware of the potential dangers and taking necessary precautions can go a long way in safeguarding our health. By understanding common parasitic infections, their symptoms, and how to prevent them, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from these harmful organisms.

Furthermore, it is important to remember that parasites not only affect humans but also animals. Pet owners should also be mindful of proper hygiene practices for both themselves and their pets. This includes regularly deworming pets and keeping their living spaces clean to prevent the spread of parasites.

A quick reference guide listing 30 common antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitic, including their dose, indications, and warnings.