Drugs for parasitic infections
Article Abstract:
Parasitic infections are no longer limited to certain parts of the world. Increases in international travel have contributed to the spread of parasites to new locations throughout the world. In addition, some groups of people are particularly vulnerable to parasitic disease because of reduced immune function; these include persons with AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), and patients taking immunosuppressive drugs. Individuals with poor immune function may develop infections that healthy people successfully resist. For these reasons, physicians can expect to encounter types of parasitic infection previously unheard of in the regions where they practice. This report provides a list of antiparasitic drugs used to treat parasitic infections. The various parasitic diseases are also listed, together with the drug of choice, alternative medications, and the recommended dosages for adults and children. Adverse effects are listed by drug as well. Because many of these drugs can cause significant toxicity, physicians must always evaluate the trade-off between the risk of toxicity and the need for therapy. In some cases, it will be wise to delay drug therapy and monitor the patient's progress. When the drug of choice is tried and appears ineffective, and the second-choice medication has more serious side effects, the best plan may be a second course of the first drug before moving on to a more hazardous treatment. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1990
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Drugs for parasitic infections
Article Abstract:
This list of parasitic infections, each with its preferred drug for treatment is intended for physicians. Increases in travel, immigration, and immune disorders may bring patients with parasites previously unknown. The list includes adult and pediatric dosage and adverse effects. The parasitic infections range from amebiasis to giardiasis, hookworm, leishmaniasis, malaria (both treatment and prevention), schistosomiasis, trichinosis and more.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1998
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Drugs for parasitic infections
Article Abstract:
There a number of drugs available to treat parasitic infections. A table lists infections in alphabetical order, the type of drug recommended, and dosages for both adults and children. Twenty alternative drugs, as well as side effects of some antiparasitic drugs, are included. Descriptions of side effects differentiate between common, occasional, and rare drug reactions.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1995
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