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. 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/epinephrine ( lidocaine + epinephrine) 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 *

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) * IbuprofenNot 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 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 * 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) * Hydrocortisone * Loratadine 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 * Atropine * Calcium gluconate * Methylthioninium chloride (methylene blue) * Naloxone * Penicillamine * Prussian blue * Sodium nitrite * Sodium thiosulfate Complementary: * Deferoxamine * Dimercaprol * Fomepizole * Sodium calcium edetate * Succimer

Medicines for diseases of the nervous system

Antiseizure medicines

* Carbamazepine * Diazepam * 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 Diazepam 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 sulfateFor 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 * 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

* Albendazole * 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: * Albendazole * 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 * 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 *

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 * ItraconazoleFor 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 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 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 + 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 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 ( 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 ( 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

* Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) * Ibuprofen *

(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 biosimilars * 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 * 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 * Cyclophosphamide * Cytarabine * Dacarbazine * Dactinomycin * Daunorubicin * Docetaxel * Doxorubicin * Doxorubicin (as pegylated liposomal) * Etoposide * 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 * Vinorelbine

Targeted therapies

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

* Trastuzumab

Immunomodulators

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

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 * Hydrocortisone * Leuprorelin Goserelin 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

* 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 Complementary: * Desmopressin * Heparin sodium * Protamine sulfate * Warfarin

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 * Red blood cells * Whole blood

Plasma-derived medicines

Human immunoglobulins

* Rho(D) immune globulin (anti-D immunoglobulin) * Anti-rabies immunoglobulin * 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. ...

* Epinephrine (adrenaline) * Lidocaine * Verapamil Complementary: * Amiodarone

Antihypertensive medicines

* AmlodipineAlternatives 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. * EnalaprilAlternatives 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 Chlorothiazide, chlorthalidone, and indapamide are alternatives * Lisinopril/amlodipine ( lisinopril + amlodipine)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)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 + amlodipine)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 + hydrochlorothiazide)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 *

* EnalaprilAlternatives 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 * Hydrochlorothiazide * 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

* Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) * Clopidogrel

Thrombolytic medicines

Complementary: * Alteplase * Streptokinase

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 +

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 ( acetylsalicylic acid +

+ ramipril +

+ hydrochlorothiazide)

, 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 + amlodipine)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

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 ...

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

Medicines affecting skin differentiation and proliferation

* Benzoyl peroxide * Calcipotriol Calcitriol 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 *

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

Diagnostic agents

Ophthalmic medicines

* Fluorescein * Tropicamide Atropine 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 * Iohexol Complementary: * Barium sulfate * Meglumine iotroxate

Antiseptics and disinfectants

Antiseptics

* Chlorhexidine *

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 is an alternative * Povidone iodine Iodine 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 * Hydrochlorothiazide * Mannitol * Spironolactone Complementary: * Hydrochlorothiazide 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 is an alternative Complementary: * Hydrocortisone *

Laxatives

* Senna Bisacodyl is an alternative

Medicines used in diarrhoea

* Oral rehydration salts + zinc sulfate (Co-packaged)

Oral rehydration

* Oral rehydration salts

Medicines for diarrhoea

* 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 * Hydrocortisone

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

, kanamycin, netilmicin, and tobramycin 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 is an alternative * TimololAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup ( S01ED Beta blocking agents) excluding combinations

Mydriatics

* Atropine Cyclopentolate hydrochloride or homatropine hydrobromide are alternatives only for the EMLc Complementary: * Epinephrine (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 + 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 * Chlorhexidine Complementary: * Ibuprofen 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, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline are alternatives

Medicines used in bipolar disorders

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

Medicines for anxiety disorders

* Diazepam lorazepam 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 * Epinephrine (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 * Calcium * Colecalciferol Ergocalciferol is an alternative * Ergocalciferol Colecalciferol is an alternative * Iodine * Multiple micronutrient powder * Nicotinamide * Pyridoxine * Retinol *

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

* Allopurinol

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

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

Medicines for juvenile joint diseases

Complementary: * Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)For use for rheumatic fever, juvenile arthritis, Kawasaki disease * Adalimumab * Methotrexate * Triamcinolone hexacetonide triamcinolone acetonide 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

Anaesthetics, preoperative medicines and medical gases

General anaesthetics and oxygen

Inhalational medicines

Injectable medicines

Local anaesthetics

Preoperative medication and sedation for short-term procedures

Medical gases

Medicines for pain and palliative care

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

Opioid analgesics

Medicines for other common symptoms in palliative care

Antiallergics and medicines used in anaphylaxis

Antidotes and other substances used in poisonings

Non-specific

Specific

Medicines for diseases of the nervous system

Antiseizure medicines

Medicines for multiple sclerosis

Medicines for parkinsonism

Anti-infective medicines

Anthelminthics

Intestinal anthelminthics

Antifilarials

Antischistosomals and other antinematode medicines

Cysticidal medicines

Antibacterials

Access group antibiotics

Watch group antibiotics

Reserve group antibiotics

Antileprosy medicines

Antituberculosis medicines

Antifungal medicines

Antiviral medicines

Antiherpes medicines

Antiretrovirals

=Nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors

=Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors

=Protease inhibitors

=Integrase inhibitors

=Fixed-dose combinations of antiretroviral medicines

=Medicines for prevention of HIV-related opportunistic infections

=Other antivirals

Antihepatitis medicines

=Medicines for hepatitis B

=Medicines for hepatitis C

Antiprotozoal medicines

Antiamoebic and antigiardiasis medicines

Antileishmaniasis medicines

Antimalarial medicines

=For curative treatment

=For chemoprevention

Antipneumocystosis and antitoxoplasmosis medicines

Antitrypanosomal medicines

=African trypanosomiasis

=American trypanosomiasis

Medicines for ectoparasitic infections

Medicines for Ebola virus disease

Medicines for COVID-19

Antimigraine medicines

For treatment of acute attack

For prophylaxis

Immunomodulators and antineoplastics

Immunomodulators for non-malignant disease

Antineoplastics and supportive medicines

Cytotoxic medicines

Targeted therapies

Immunomodulators

Hormones and antihormones

Supportive medicines

Therapeutic foods

Medicines affecting the blood

Antianaemia medicines

Medicines affecting coagulation

Other medicines for haemoglobinopathies

Blood products of human origin and plasma substitutes

Blood and blood components

Plasma-derived medicines

Human immunoglobulins

Blood coagulation factors

Plasma substitutes