List down the common medicine in india with there generic name and in front with their usage or action
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Here is a well-organized list of the most commonly used medicines in India, by therapeutic category, with generic names and their actions/uses:
Common Medicines in India - Generic Names & Uses
1. Analgesics / Antipyretics (Pain & Fever)
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) | Fever, mild-to-moderate pain relief |
| Ibuprofen | Pain, fever, inflammation (NSAID) |
| Diclofenac | Pain, arthritis, inflammation (NSAID) |
| Aspirin | Pain, fever; low-dose for blood clot prevention |
| Tramadol | Moderate-to-severe pain (opioid-like analgesic) |
| Nimesulide | Pain and fever, widely used in India (NSAID) |
| Aceclofenac | Musculoskeletal pain, arthritis (NSAID) |
| Mefenamic Acid | Period pain, mild-to-moderate pain (NSAID) |
2. Antibiotics (Bacterial Infections)
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Amoxicillin | Respiratory, ear, urinary tract infections |
| Amoxicillin + Clavulanate | Broader spectrum infections resistant to amoxicillin alone |
| Azithromycin | Respiratory infections, typhoid, STIs |
| Ciprofloxacin | UTI, diarrhea, respiratory, skin infections |
| Cefixime | Urinary tract, respiratory, typhoid infections |
| Ceftriaxone | Severe/hospital infections (IV/IM use) |
| Doxycycline | Malaria prevention, chlamydia, acne, leptospirosis |
| Metronidazole | Amoebic dysentery, dental infections, anaerobic infections |
| Co-trimoxazole (Trimethoprim + Sulfamethoxazole) | UTI, respiratory infections, PCP prophylaxis |
| Clindamycin | Dental, skin, bone infections |
| Erythromycin | Respiratory infections, skin infections |
| Nitrofurantoin | Urinary tract infections |
| Ofloxacin | Diarrhea, UTI, respiratory infections |
3. Antifungals
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Fluconazole | Oral/vaginal candidiasis, fungal infections |
| Clotrimazole | Skin fungal infections, vaginal thrush (topical) |
| Itraconazole | Systemic fungal infections, ringworm |
| Terbinafine | Ringworm, nail fungal infections |
4. Antiparasitics / Antiprotozoals
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Albendazole | Intestinal worms (deworming) |
| Mebendazole | Intestinal worm infections |
| Metronidazole | Amoebic infections, giardiasis |
| Chloroquine | Malaria treatment and prevention |
| Hydroxychloroquine | Malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus |
| Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) | Filariasis (elephantiasis) |
5. Gastrointestinal Medicines
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Pantoprazole | Acid reflux, peptic ulcers, GERD (PPI) |
| Omeprazole | Acid reflux, peptic ulcers (PPI) |
| Rabeprazole | GERD, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (PPI) |
| Ranitidine / Famotidine | Acid reduction (H2 blocker) |
| Ondansetron | Nausea and vomiting |
| Domperidone | Nausea, vomiting, gastroparesis |
| Metoclopramide | Nausea, vomiting, gastric motility |
| Loperamide | Diarrhea |
| Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) | Dehydration from diarrhea |
| Lactulose | Constipation, hepatic encephalopathy |
| Bisacodyl | Constipation (stimulant laxative) |
6. Cardiovascular Medicines
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Atorvastatin | High cholesterol, cardiovascular risk reduction |
| Rosuvastatin | High cholesterol, heart disease prevention |
| Amlodipine | Hypertension, angina (calcium channel blocker) |
| Enalapril / Lisinopril | Hypertension, heart failure (ACE inhibitor) |
| Losartan / Telmisartan | Hypertension (ARB - angiotensin receptor blocker) |
| Metoprolol | Hypertension, heart failure, angina (beta-blocker) |
| Atenolol | Hypertension, angina (beta-blocker) |
| Aspirin (low dose) | Anti-platelet - prevents heart attack and stroke |
| Clopidogrel | Anti-platelet - prevents blood clots post-stent/heart attack |
| Digoxin | Heart failure, atrial fibrillation |
| Furosemide | Fluid retention/edema in heart failure (loop diuretic) |
| Hydrochlorothiazide | Hypertension, edema (thiazide diuretic) |
| Nitroglycerine | Acute angina (chest pain) relief |
| Isosorbide Mononitrate | Angina prevention (nitrate) |
7. Diabetes Medicines
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Metformin | Type 2 diabetes - reduces glucose production (first-line) |
| Glibenclamide / Glipizide | Type 2 diabetes - stimulates insulin release (sulfonylurea) |
| Glimepiride | Type 2 diabetes (sulfonylurea) |
| Insulin (Regular / NPH / Glargine) | Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes - replaces/supplements insulin |
| Vildagliptin / Sitagliptin | Type 2 diabetes (DPP-4 inhibitor) |
| Dapagliflozin / Empagliflozin | Type 2 diabetes, heart failure, kidney protection (SGLT2 inhibitor) |
8. Respiratory Medicines
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Salbutamol (Albuterol) | Bronchospasm relief in asthma, COPD (short-acting beta-2 agonist) |
| Formoterol / Salmeterol | Long-term asthma/COPD control (long-acting beta-2 agonist) |
| Budesonide | Inhaled steroid for asthma, COPD (anti-inflammatory) |
| Montelukast | Asthma, allergic rhinitis (leukotriene antagonist) |
| Tiotropium | COPD (long-acting anticholinergic) |
| Ipratropium | COPD, acute asthma (short-acting anticholinergic) |
| Theophylline | Asthma, COPD (bronchodilator) |
| Cetirizine / Fexofenadine / Loratadine | Allergic rhinitis, urticaria (antihistamines) |
9. Neurological / Psychiatric Medicines
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Amitriptyline | Depression, neuropathic pain (tricyclic antidepressant) |
| Escitalopram / Fluoxetine | Depression, anxiety (SSRI) |
| Alprazolam / Diazepam | Anxiety, seizures, muscle spasm (benzodiazepine) |
| Clonazepam | Epilepsy, anxiety |
| Phenytoin | Epilepsy (seizure control) |
| Carbamazepine | Epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia |
| Valproate | Epilepsy, bipolar disorder |
| Levodopa + Carbidopa | Parkinson's disease |
| Gabapentin / Pregabalin | Neuropathic pain, epilepsy |
10. Thyroid Medicines
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Levothyroxine (T4) | Hypothyroidism - hormone replacement |
| Neomercazole (Carbimazole) | Hyperthyroidism - reduces thyroid hormone production |
11. Vitamins & Supplements (Very Widely Used)
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Iron + Folic Acid | Anemia prevention and treatment (especially in pregnancy) |
| Calcium + Vitamin D3 | Bone health, osteoporosis, calcium deficiency |
| Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin/Methylcobalamin) | B12 deficiency, neuropathy |
| Zinc Sulfate | Diarrhea management in children, immunity |
| Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) | Immunity support, scurvy prevention |
12. Antituberculosis (TB) Medicines
(TB is highly prevalent in India)
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Isoniazid (H) | TB treatment (first-line) |
| Rifampicin (R) | TB treatment (first-line) |
| Pyrazinamide (Z) | TB treatment (first-line) |
| Ethambutol (E) | TB treatment (first-line) |
13. Steroids / Corticosteroids
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Prednisolone | Inflammation, autoimmune diseases, allergies |
| Dexamethasone | Severe inflammation, cerebral edema, COVID-19 (severe) |
| Betamethasone | Skin conditions, fetal lung maturation in premature birth |
| Hydrocortisone | Adrenal insufficiency, severe allergic reactions |
14. Skin Medicines (Topical)
| Generic Name | Use / Action |
|---|---|
| Clotrimazole cream | Fungal skin infections |
| Mupirocin | Bacterial skin infections (impetigo) |
| Calamine lotion | Itching, mild skin irritation |
| Permethrin | Scabies, lice |
| Tretinoin | Acne, anti-aging |
| Clobetasol | Inflammatory skin conditions (potent topical steroid) |
Note: In India, the government's National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) serves as the official reference for medicines that must be made available and affordable. Price-capped medicines are regulated by the NPPA (National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority). Always consult a qualified doctor before taking any prescription medicine.
perfect.... Now into this without disturbing the list highlight the Drug of Choice/highly prescribed drug and also to add allowed dosage of all of them mentioned
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You are a medical reference expert. I need standard adult dosages for ALL the following medicines, AND which ones are considered "Drug of Choice (DOC)" in their category. Use the medical library (read /skills/readonly/medical-library/SKILL.md first) and web search to compile accurate dosages. Please return a structured JSON-like or table format with: Generic Name | DOC (yes/no) | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency | Route Here are all the medicines to cover: ANALGESICS/ANTIPYRETICS: - Paracetamol - Ibuprofen - Diclofenac - Aspirin - Tramadol - Nimesulide - Aceclofenac - Mefenamic Acid ANTIBIOTICS: - Amoxicillin - Amoxicillin + Clavulanate - Azithromycin - Ciprofloxacin - Cefixime - Ceftriaxone - Doxycycline - Metronidazole - Co-trimoxazole - Clindamycin - Erythromycin - Nitrofurantoin - Ofloxacin ANTIFUNGALS: - Fluconazole - Clotrimazole - Itraconazole - Terbinafine ANTIPARASITICS: - Albendazole - Mebendazole - Metronidazole (antiprotozoal) - Chloroquine - Hydroxychloroquine - Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) GASTROINTESTINAL: - Pantoprazole - Omeprazole - Rabeprazole - Ranitidine / Famotidine - Ondansetron - Domperidone - Metoclopramide - Loperamide - ORS - Lactulose - Bisacodyl CARDIOVASCULAR: - Atorvastatin - Rosuvastatin - Amlodipine - Enalapril / Lisinopril - Losartan / Telmisartan - Metoprolol - Atenolol - Aspirin low dose - Clopidogrel - Digoxin - Furosemide - Hydrochlorothiazide - Nitroglycerine - Isosorbide Mononitrate DIABETES: - Metformin - Glibenclamide / Glipizide - Glimepiride - Insulin Regular/NPH/Glargine - Vildagliptin / Sitagliptin - Dapagliflozin / Empagliflozin RESPIRATORY: - Salbutamol - Formoterol / Salmeterol - Budesonide - Montelukast - Tiotropium - Ipratropium - Theophylline - Cetirizine / Fexofenadine / Loratadine NEUROLOGICAL/PSYCHIATRIC: - Amitriptyline - Escitalopram / Fluoxetine - Alprazolam / Diazepam - Clonazepam - Phenytoin - Carbamazepine - Valproate - Levodopa + Carbidopa - Gabapentin / Pregabalin THYROID: - Levothyroxine - Carbimazole VITAMINS/SUPPLEMENTS: - Iron + Folic Acid - Calcium + Vitamin D3 - Vitamin B12 - Zinc Sulfate - Vitamin C ANTITUBERCULOSIS: - Isoniazid - Rifampicin - Pyrazinamide - Ethambutol STEROIDS: - Prednisolone - Dexamethasone - Betamethasone - Hydrocortisone SKIN (Topical): - Clotrimazole cream - Mupirocin - Calamine lotion - Permethrin - Tretinoin - Clobetasol For DOC designation, use standard Indian/international pharmacology references. Please be thorough and accurate. Return a complete list with all medicines covered.
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Here is the fully updated, enhanced list - same structure as before, with DOC highlighted and dosages added for every medicine:
Legend: ✅ DOC = Drug of Choice for its primary indication | All doses are for standard adults with normal renal/hepatic function | OD = Once daily | BD = Twice daily | TDS = Three times daily | QID = Four times daily | PRN = As needed | SL = Sublingual | SC = Subcutaneous | SR/XL/ER = Extended release
Common Medicines in India - Generic Names, Uses & Dosages
1. Analgesics / Antipyretics
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) | DOC - fever & mild-moderate pain (safest; DOC in pregnancy) | Fever, mild-to-moderate pain | 500-1000 mg | Q4-6H (max 4 g/day) |
| ✅ Ibuprofen | DOC NSAID for mild-moderate pain, dysmenorrhea | Pain, fever, inflammation | 400-600 mg | Q6-8H (max 2400 mg/day) |
| ✅ Diclofenac | DOC for musculoskeletal pain, renal colic (IM) | Pain, arthritis, inflammation | 50 mg oral; 75 mg IM | BD-TDS (max 150 mg/day) |
| ✅ Aspirin | DOC antipyretic historically; DOC antiplatelet (low dose) | Pain, fever; low-dose for clot prevention | 300-600 mg (analgesic) | Q4-6H (max 4 g/day) |
| ✅ Tramadol | DOC for moderate-severe pain (preferred non-opioid) | Moderate-to-severe pain | 50-100 mg | Q6-8H (max 400 mg/day) |
| Nimesulide | Not DOC (hepatotoxicity risk; India use only) | Pain and fever (selective COX-2) | 100 mg | BD (max 200 mg/day; max 15 days) |
| Aceclofenac | Not DOC (pro-drug of diclofenac) | Musculoskeletal pain, arthritis | 100 mg | BD |
| ✅ Mefenamic Acid | DOC for primary dysmenorrhea | Period pain, mild-moderate pain | 500 mg (loading), then 250 mg | Q6H (max 1.5 g/day; max 7 days) |
2. Antibiotics
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Amoxicillin | DOC - strep throat, otitis media, H. pylori (with PPI) | Respiratory, ear, urinary tract infections | 500 mg | TDS (Q8H) oral |
| ✅ Amoxicillin + Clavulanate | DOC - sinusitis, CAP, bite wounds | Broader spectrum infections | 625 mg (500/125 mg) | TDS; or 875/125 mg BD |
| ✅ Azithromycin | DOC - atypical pneumonia, chlamydia, community RTI | Respiratory, STIs, typhoid | 500 mg Day 1, then 250 mg | OD x5 days |
| ✅ Ciprofloxacin | DOC - gram-negative UTI, traveler's diarrhea | UTI, diarrhea, respiratory, skin | 500-750 mg | BD oral; 400 mg BD IV |
| ✅ Cefixime | DOC - uncomplicated gonorrhea (400 mg single dose) | UTI, respiratory, typhoid | 200-400 mg | OD or BD |
| ✅ Ceftriaxone | DOC - bacterial meningitis, severe infections | Severe/hospital infections | 1-2 g | OD IV/IM |
| ✅ Doxycycline | DOC - scrub typhus, chlamydia, rickettsia, leptospirosis | Malaria prevention, atypical infections, acne | 100 mg | BD oral/IV |
| ✅ Metronidazole | DOC - anaerobic infections, amoebiasis, trichomoniasis | Amoebic dysentery, dental, anaerobic infections | 400-500 mg | TDS oral; 500 mg Q8H IV |
| ✅ Co-trimoxazole (TMP-SMX) | DOC - PCP treatment/prophylaxis, nocardia, UTI | UTI, respiratory, PCP | 960 mg (160/800 mg) | BD oral/IV |
| ✅ Clindamycin | DOC - anaerobic oral/facial infections, MRSA skin | Dental, skin, bone infections | 150-300 mg oral; 600 mg IV | Q6H oral; Q8H IV |
| Erythromycin | Not DOC (superseded by azithromycin) | Respiratory, skin infections (older macrolide) | 250-500 mg | Q6-8H |
| ✅ Nitrofurantoin | DOC - uncomplicated lower UTI in women | Urinary tract infections | 50-100 mg | Q6H x7 days; or 100 mg BD (MR) |
| ✅ Ofloxacin | DOC - urogenital gonorrhea (alt), MDR-TB adjunct | UTI, diarrhea, respiratory | 200-400 mg | BD oral/IV |
3. Antifungals
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Fluconazole | DOC - oral/vaginal candidiasis, cryptococcal meningitis | Fungal infections (systemic & mucosal) | 150 mg single dose (vaginal); 200-400 mg/day (systemic) | OD oral/IV |
| ✅ Clotrimazole | DOC topical for dermatophytosis, vaginal thrush | Skin fungal infections, vaginal candidiasis | 1% cream applied thinly | BD-TDS x 2-4 weeks topical |
| ✅ Itraconazole | DOC - onychomycosis, histoplasmosis | Systemic fungal infections, ringworm, nail fungi | 200 mg BD (pulse x 1 week/month x 3 months for nails) | OD-BD |
| ✅ Terbinafine | DOC - dermatophyte nail fungus (onychomycosis) | Ringworm, nail fungal infections | 250 mg | OD x 6 wks (fingernails) / 12 wks (toenails) |
4. Antiparasitics / Antiprotozoals
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Albendazole | DOC - soil-transmitted helminths, NCC | Intestinal worms (deworming) | 400 mg (single dose for worms); 400 mg BD x 3-5 days (tissue) | Single dose or BD |
| ✅ Mebendazole | DOC alternative - intestinal helminths | Intestinal worm infections | 100 mg BD x 3 days; or 500 mg single dose | BD or single |
| ✅ Metronidazole | DOC - amoebiasis, giardiasis, trichomoniasis | Amoebic infections, giardiasis | 750 mg (amoebiasis) / 500 mg (giardia) | TDS x 5-10 days |
| ✅ Chloroquine | DOC - P. vivax & P. ovale malaria (chloroquine-sensitive) | Malaria treatment/prevention | 600 mg base Day1, then 300 mg at 6H, 24H, 48H | As per schedule |
| ✅ Hydroxychloroquine | DOC - SLE, RA (disease modifier) | Malaria, SLE, rheumatoid arthritis | 400 mg/day (loading); 200-400 mg/day (maintenance) | OD-BD |
| ✅ Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) | DOC - lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis) | Filariasis | 6 mg/kg/day (in 3 divided doses) x 12 days | TDS |
5. Gastrointestinal Medicines
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Pantoprazole | DOC IV PPI in hospital; co-DOC for GERD/peptic ulcer | Acid reflux, peptic ulcers, GERD | 40 mg | OD oral/IV (BD for H. pylori) |
| ✅ Omeprazole | DOC PPI - first-line for GERD, peptic ulcer, H. pylori | Acid reflux, peptic ulcers | 20-40 mg | OD (30 min before meal) |
| Rabeprazole | Not DOC (equivalent PPI; slightly faster onset) | GERD, peptic ulcer | 20 mg | OD |
| Famotidine | Not DOC (H2-blocker; second-line after PPIs) | Acid reduction | 20-40 mg | OD-BD (40 mg nocte) |
| ✅ Ondansetron | DOC - chemo-induced & post-op nausea/vomiting | Nausea and vomiting | 4-8 mg | Q8H (max 32 mg/day) oral/IV/IM |
| ✅ Domperidone | DOC - gastroparesis, nausea (preferred over metoclopramide - no CNS effects) | Nausea, vomiting, gastroparesis | 10 mg | TDS (before meals) |
| Metoclopramide | Not DOC (extrapyramidal risk; second-line) | Nausea, vomiting, gastric motility | 10 mg | TDS-QID (max 30 mg/day) oral/IV/IM |
| ✅ Loperamide | DOC - acute non-infective diarrhea (symptomatic) | Diarrhea | 4 mg (initial), then 2 mg after each loose stool | Max 16 mg/day |
| ✅ ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts) | DOC - dehydration from acute diarrhea (WHO standard) | Dehydration from diarrhea | 200-400 mL after each loose stool | Ad lib (as needed) |
| ✅ Lactulose | DOC - hepatic encephalopathy prevention & constipation | Constipation, hepatic encephalopathy | 15-30 mL (10-20 g) | OD-BD; titrate to 2-3 soft stools/day |
| Bisacodyl | Not DOC (stimulant laxative; short-term only) | Constipation, bowel prep | 5-10 mg oral; 10 mg suppository | Nocte (oral); morning (PR) |
6. Cardiovascular Medicines
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Atorvastatin | DOC statin - most widely used; highest LDL reduction | High cholesterol, cardiovascular risk reduction | 10-80 mg (high-intensity: 40-80 mg) | OD (evening preferred) |
| ✅ Rosuvastatin | DOC alternative - very high LDL; superior LDL reduction per mg | High cholesterol, heart disease prevention | 10-40 mg | OD |
| ✅ Amlodipine | DOC CCB for hypertension & stable angina | Hypertension, angina | 5 mg (initial); 10 mg (maintenance) | OD |
| ✅ Enalapril / Lisinopril | DOC ACE inhibitor - hypertension, HFrEF, diabetic nephropathy | Hypertension, heart failure | Enalapril 5-20 mg; Lisinopril 10-40 mg | OD-BD (Enalapril); OD (Lisinopril) |
| ✅ Losartan | DOC ARB - hypertension, diabetic nephropathy (ACE-I intolerant) | Hypertension (ARB) | 50-100 mg | OD |
| Telmisartan | Not DOC (equivalent ARB; long-acting) | Hypertension, metabolic syndrome | 40-80 mg | OD |
| ✅ Metoprolol | DOC beta-1 blocker - HFrEF, post-MI, rate control | Hypertension, heart failure, angina | Succinate (XL): 25-200 mg OD; Tartrate: 25-100 mg BD | OD (XL) / BD (IR) |
| Atenolol | Not DOC (metoprolol preferred) | Hypertension, angina (beta-blocker) | 25-100 mg | OD |
| ✅ Aspirin (low dose) | DOC antiplatelet - secondary prevention of MI, ACS, stroke | Antiplatelet - prevents heart attack and stroke | 75-150 mg | OD |
| ✅ Clopidogrel | DOC P2Y12 inhibitor - dual antiplatelet post-ACS/PCI | Antiplatelet post-stent/heart attack | 75 mg (maintenance); 300-600 mg loading in ACS | OD |
| Digoxin | Not DOC (narrow therapeutic index; second-line) | Heart failure, atrial fibrillation (rate control) | 0.125-0.25 mg | OD oral/IV |
| ✅ Furosemide | DOC loop diuretic - acute pulmonary edema, HF, hypertensive urgency | Fluid retention/edema in heart failure | 20-80 mg | OD-BD oral/IV/IM |
| ✅ Hydrochlorothiazide | DOC thiazide diuretic - hypertension (especially metabolic syndrome) | Hypertension, edema | 12.5-25 mg | OD |
| ✅ Nitroglycerine (GTN) | DOC - acute anginal attack (sublingual); unstable angina (IV) | Acute angina (chest pain) relief | 0.4-0.5 mg (sublingual tablet/spray) | Q5 min x 3 doses PRN (SL) |
| ✅ Isosorbide Mononitrate | DOC long-acting nitrate for angina prophylaxis | Angina prevention (nitrate) | 20-40 mg (IR); 30-60 mg (SR) | BD (IR); OD (SR) |
7. Diabetes Medicines
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Metformin | DOC FIRST-LINE for T2DM - all guidelines; cardioprotective, weight-neutral | Type 2 diabetes - reduces glucose production | 500-850 mg (start low); 1000-2000 mg/day (maintenance) | BD-TDS with meals |
| Glibenclamide / Glipizide | Not DOC (hypoglycemia risk; avoid in elderly) | Type 2 diabetes (sulfonylurea) | 2.5-5 mg / 5-20 mg | OD-BD before meals |
| ✅ Glimepiride | DOC sulfonylurea - once daily, lower hypoglycemia risk | Type 2 diabetes | 1-4 mg (max 8 mg/day) | OD with breakfast |
| ✅ Insulin Regular | DOC - T1DM, hyperglycemic emergencies (IV), gestational diabetes | Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes | 6-10 IU SC pre-meals (typical); titrate per protocol | TDS before meals SC / IV |
| ✅ Insulin Glargine | DOC basal insulin - 24H flat profile, no peak; T1DM & T2DM | Long-acting insulin replacement | 10 IU (initial); titrate to FPG target | OD (same time daily) SC |
| ✅ Sitagliptin | DOC DPP-4 inhibitor (most studied); weight-neutral | Type 2 diabetes (add-on) | 100 mg | OD |
| ✅ Vildagliptin | DOC DPP-4 inhibitor widely used in India; safe in renal impairment | Type 2 diabetes (add-on) | 50 mg | BD |
| ✅ Empagliflozin | DOC SGLT2 inhibitor - proven cardiovascular mortality benefit (EMPA-REG trial) | T2DM, heart failure, kidney protection | 10-25 mg | OD |
| ✅ Dapagliflozin | DOC SGLT2 inhibitor - HFrEF & CKD (beyond T2DM) | T2DM, heart failure, CKD | 10 mg | OD |
8. Respiratory Medicines
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Salbutamol (Albuterol) | DOC SABA reliever - acute asthma rescue, COPD exacerbation | Bronchospasm in asthma, COPD | 100-200 mcg (1-2 puffs MDI); Nebulization: 2.5-5 mg | Q4-6H PRN; Acute: Q20 min x 3 |
| ✅ Formoterol | DOC LABA - fastest onset; used in MART therapy | Asthma/COPD maintenance (LABA) | 12 mcg | BD inhaled (DPI) |
| ✅ Salmeterol | DOC LABA for asthma (always with ICS) | Asthma, COPD maintenance | 50 mcg | BD inhaled (DPI) |
| ✅ Budesonide | DOC ICS for asthma maintenance - most studied; safe in pregnancy | Asthma maintenance (anti-inflammatory) | Low: 200-400 mcg/day; Medium: 400-800 mcg/day | BD inhaled |
| ✅ Montelukast | DOC LTRA - asthma + allergic rhinitis (add-on) | Asthma, allergic rhinitis | 10 mg | OD (evening) |
| ✅ Tiotropium | DOC LAMA - COPD maintenance (superior to ipratropium) | COPD (long-acting anticholinergic) | 18 mcg (HandiHaler); 2.5-5 mcg (Respimat) | OD inhaled |
| ✅ Ipratropium | DOC SAMA - acute COPD exacerbation (combined with salbutamol) | COPD, acute asthma (short-acting) | 20-40 mcg MDI; 0.5 mg nebulized | Q6-8H; Acute: Q20 min |
| Theophylline | Not DOC (third-line; narrow therapeutic index) | Asthma, COPD (bronchodilator) | 200-400 mg (SR formulation) | BD oral (max 900 mg/day); monitor levels |
| ✅ Cetirizine | DOC 2nd-gen antihistamine - allergic rhinitis, urticaria (least sedating at standard dose) | Allergic rhinitis, urticaria | 10 mg | OD |
| ✅ Fexofenadine | DOC when zero sedation required | Allergic rhinitis, urticaria | 120-180 mg | OD |
| ✅ Loratadine | DOC non-sedating OTC antihistamine | Allergic rhinitis, urticaria | 10 mg | OD |
9. Neurological / Psychiatric Medicines
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Amitriptyline | DOC TCA - neuropathic pain, migraine prophylaxis, enuresis | Depression, neuropathic pain | 10-75 mg (neuropathic pain); 75-150 mg (depression) | OD nocte or divided |
| ✅ Escitalopram | DOC SSRI - MDD & GAD (best tolerability/efficacy in meta-analyses) | Depression, anxiety (SSRI) | 10-20 mg | OD |
| ✅ Fluoxetine | DOC SSRI - bulimia nervosa, OCD; longest half-life | Depression, OCD, bulimia (SSRI) | 20-60 mg | OD (morning) |
| Alprazolam | Not DOC (high dependence/abuse potential) | Anxiety, panic disorder (BZD) | 0.25-0.5 mg | TDS (max 4 mg/day) |
| ✅ Diazepam | DOC - acute status epilepticus (IV), alcohol withdrawal, muscle relaxation | Anxiety, seizures, muscle spasm | 2-10 mg (anxiety); 10 mg IV (status epilepticus) | BD-QID (anxiety); PRN (seizure) oral/IV/IM |
| ✅ Clonazepam | DOC - absence seizures, myoclonic epilepsy, panic disorder | Epilepsy, anxiety | 0.25-2 mg (start 0.25-0.5 mg) | BD-TDS (max 20 mg/day) |
| ✅ Phenytoin | DOC - generalized tonic-clonic & focal seizures (being replaced by newer agents) | Epilepsy (seizure control) | 300-400 mg/day; Loading IV: 15-18 mg/kg | OD-BD oral; slow IV (<50 mg/min) |
| ✅ Carbamazepine | DOC - trigeminal neuralgia; focal/partial epilepsy | Epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia | 200 mg BD (start); 600-1200 mg/day (maintenance) | BD-TDS |
| ✅ Valproate | DOC - generalized epilepsy, absence seizures, bipolar disorder, migraine prophylaxis | Epilepsy, bipolar disorder | 200-500 mg BD; max 60 mg/kg/day | BD-TDS oral/IV |
| ✅ Levodopa + Carbidopa | DOC / Gold Standard for Parkinson's disease | Parkinson's disease | 100/25 mg - 250/25 mg TDS; start 50/12.5 mg TDS | TDS (before meals) |
| ✅ Gabapentin | DOC - postherpetic neuralgia, partial seizures | Neuropathic pain, epilepsy | 300 mg OD (start); 300-600 mg TDS (maintenance) | TDS (max 3600 mg/day) |
| ✅ Pregabalin | DOC - diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, fibromyalgia, GAD | Neuropathic pain, epilepsy, anxiety | 75 mg BD (start); 150-600 mg/day (max) | BD-TDS |
10. Thyroid Medicines
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Levothyroxine (T4) | DOC / Gold Standard - hypothyroidism (physiological T4 replacement) | Hypothyroidism - hormone replacement | 1.6 mcg/kg/day (~100-125 mcg for 70 kg adult); Start elderly/cardiac: 25-50 mcg | OD (30 min before breakfast) |
| ✅ Carbimazole | DOC antithyroid drug (India/UK) for Graves' disease & hyperthyroidism | Hyperthyroidism - reduces thyroid hormone | Initial: 20-60 mg/day; Maintenance: 5-10 mg/day | BD-TDS (initial); OD (maintenance) |
11. Vitamins & Supplements
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Iron + Folic Acid | DOC - iron-deficiency anemia; mandatory in pregnancy | Anemia prevention and treatment | 100-200 mg elemental iron + Folic acid 400-1000 mcg | OD-BD (on empty stomach or with Vitamin C) |
| ✅ Calcium + Vitamin D3 | DOC - osteoporosis prevention; D3 preferred over D2 | Bone health, osteoporosis, calcium deficiency | Ca: 500-1000 mg; Vit D3: 400-1000 IU/day (prophylaxis); 60,000 IU/week x 8 weeks (deficiency) | OD-BD |
| ✅ Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin/Cyanocobalamin) | DOC - B12 deficiency, megaloblastic anemia, peripheral neuropathy | B12 deficiency, neuropathy | Deficiency: 1000 mcg IM x 7 days, then weekly x 4, then monthly; OR oral 1000-2000 mcg OD | IM or oral OD |
| ✅ Zinc Sulfate | DOC adjunct - diarrhea management (WHO/UNICEF recommended) | Diarrhea management in children, immunity | 20 mg elemental zinc/day (adults) | OD x 10-14 days |
| ✅ Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) | DOC - scurvy treatment; enhances iron absorption | Immunity support, scurvy prevention | 500-1000 mg/day (supplement); 1000 mg/day x 30 days (scurvy) | OD-BD |
12. Antituberculosis (TB) Medicines
Standard regimen for drug-susceptible pulmonary TB: Intensive phase (2 months): HRZE → Continuation phase (4 months): HR
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Isoniazid (H) | DOC component - most bactericidal TB drug | TB treatment (first-line) | 5 mg/kg/day (standard 300 mg for >50 kg) + Pyridoxine 10-25 mg | OD oral/IM |
| ✅ Rifampicin (R) | DOC component - major sterilizing action; enzyme inducer | TB treatment (first-line) | 10 mg/kg/day (600 mg for >50 kg; 450 mg for 40-50 kg) | OD fasting oral/IV |
| ✅ Pyrazinamide (Z) | DOC component - sterilizing; used only in intensive phase | TB treatment (first-line) | 25 mg/kg/day (~1500-2000 mg for 60-70 kg) | OD |
| ✅ Ethambutol (E) | DOC component - prevents resistance; bacteriostatic | TB treatment (first-line) | 15-25 mg/kg/day (~800-1200 mg for 50-70 kg) | OD; monitor vision |
13. Steroids / Corticosteroids
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Prednisolone | DOC oral steroid - most inflammatory/autoimmune conditions, asthma exacerbations | Inflammation, autoimmune diseases, allergies | Moderate: 20-40 mg/day; Severe: 60 mg/day; taper by 5-10 mg every 1-2 weeks | OD (morning) or divided |
| ✅ Dexamethasone | DOC - cerebral edema, bacterial meningitis, anti-emesis, antenatal lung maturation | Severe inflammation, cerebral edema | 4-8 mg Q6-12H oral/IV; Cerebral edema: 10 mg IV stat then 4 mg Q6H | BD-QID per indication |
| ✅ Betamethasone | DOC - fetal lung maturation in preterm labor (antenatal) | Skin conditions, fetal lung maturation | Antenatal: 12 mg IM x 2 doses (24H apart); Topical: 0.05-0.1% cream | Per indication |
| ✅ Hydrocortisone | DOC - acute adrenal insufficiency (Addisonian crisis), anaphylaxis | Adrenal insufficiency, severe allergic reactions | Adrenal crisis: 100 mg IV stat then 200 mg/24H infusion; Replacement: 20 mg morning + 10 mg evening | Per indication IV/IM/oral |
14. Skin Medicines (Topical)
| Generic Name | DOC? | Use / Action | Standard Adult Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Clotrimazole 1% cream | DOC topical - tinea (ringworm), cutaneous candidiasis | Fungal skin infections | Apply thin layer (extend 2 cm beyond margins) | BD-TDS x 2-4 weeks |
| ✅ Mupirocin 2% cream/ointment | DOC - impetigo, Staphylococcal skin infection; nasal MRSA decolonization | Bacterial skin infections (impetigo) | Apply thin film to affected area | TDS x 5-10 days |
| Calamine lotion | Not DOC (symptomatic/soothing only) | Itching, mild skin irritation | Apply liberally as needed | BD-TDS PRN |
| ✅ Permethrin 5% cream | DOC - scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei); 1% lotion DOC for head lice | Scabies, lice | Apply whole body (neck down); wash off after 8-14 hours | Single application; repeat in 1 week if needed |
| ✅ Tretinoin 0.025-0.05% | DOC topical retinoid - acne vulgaris, comedones, photo-aging | Acne, anti-aging | Apply pea-sized amount to face | OD nocte |
| ✅ Clobetasol 0.05% | DOC Class I (super-potent) topical steroid - severe psoriasis, discoid lupus, lichen planus | Severe inflammatory skin conditions | Apply sparingly to affected area (max 50 g/week) | OD-BD x max 4 weeks |
Quick DOC Summary by Clinical Condition
| Condition | Drug of Choice |
|---|---|
| Fever / Mild pain (safest) | Paracetamol |
| Dysmenorrhea | Mefenamic Acid or Ibuprofen |
| Renal colic | Diclofenac IM |
| Moderate-severe pain | Tramadol |
| Strep throat / Otitis media | Amoxicillin |
| Atypical pneumonia / Chlamydia | Azithromycin |
| Scrub typhus / Rickettsia / Leptospirosis | Doxycycline |
| Anaerobic infections / Amoebiasis | Metronidazole |
| Uncomplicated UTI (women) | Nitrofurantoin |
| Gram-negative UTI | Ciprofloxacin |
| Bacterial meningitis (empiric) | Ceftriaxone |
| PCP treatment/prophylaxis | Co-trimoxazole |
| Impetigo | Mupirocin (topical) |
| Scabies | Permethrin 5% |
| Tinea / Ringworm (topical) | Clotrimazole |
| Onychomycosis (nail fungus) | Terbinafine |
| Vaginal / Systemic candidiasis | Fluconazole |
| Lymphatic filariasis | Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) |
| Intestinal worms (deworming) | Albendazole |
| P. vivax malaria | Chloroquine |
| GERD / Peptic ulcer | Omeprazole / Pantoprazole |
| Chemo/post-op nausea | Ondansetron |
| Acute diarrhea (symptomatic) | Loperamide + ORS |
| Hepatic encephalopathy | Lactulose |
| Hypertension (CCB) | Amlodipine |
| Hypertension (ACE inhibitor) | Enalapril / Lisinopril |
| Hypertension (ARB) | Losartan |
| Hypertension (thiazide) | Hydrochlorothiazide |
| Heart failure (beta-blocker) | Metoprolol succinate |
| Acute angina | Nitroglycerine SL |
| Hyperlipidemia | Atorvastatin |
| Secondary CV prevention (antiplatelet) | Aspirin 75-150 mg |
| Post-ACS dual antiplatelet | Aspirin + Clopidogrel |
| Acute pulmonary edema | Furosemide IV |
| T2DM first-line | Metformin |
| Basal insulin | Insulin Glargine |
| SGLT2 inhibitor (CV/renal benefit) | Empagliflozin / Dapagliflozin |
| Acute asthma (rescue) | Salbutamol inhaler |
| Asthma maintenance (ICS) | Budesonide |
| COPD maintenance (LAMA) | Tiotropium |
| Allergic rhinitis / Urticaria | Cetirizine |
| Depression / GAD (SSRI) | Escitalopram |
| Neuropathic pain (TCA) | Amitriptyline |
| Status epilepticus | Diazepam IV |
| Generalized epilepsy | Valproate |
| Focal / Partial epilepsy | Carbamazepine |
| Trigeminal neuralgia | Carbamazepine |
| Neuropathic pain (gabapentinoid) | Pregabalin / Gabapentin |
| Parkinson's disease | Levodopa + Carbidopa |
| Hypothyroidism | Levothyroxine |
| Graves' disease / Hyperthyroidism | Carbimazole |
| Iron-deficiency anemia | Ferrous Sulfate + Folic Acid |
| Vitamin B12 deficiency | Methylcobalamin IM |
| Bone health / Osteoporosis | Calcium + Vitamin D3 |
| Pulmonary TB (standard) | 2HRZE / 4HR regimen |
| Adrenal crisis | Hydrocortisone IV |
| Cerebral edema | Dexamethasone |
| Antenatal lung maturation | Betamethasone IM |
| Inflammatory disease (oral steroid) | Prednisolone |
| Acne vulgaris (topical) | Tretinoin |
| Severe psoriasis / Lichen planus | Clobetasol 0.05% |
Important Dose Adjustments to Remember:
- Reduce dose in renal impairment: Metformin, Nitrofurantoin, Digoxin, Ethambutol, Gabapentin, Co-trimoxazole, Atenolol
- Reduce dose in hepatic impairment: Paracetamol (limit to 2 g/day), Statins, Metronidazole, Carbimazole, Rifampicin
- Avoid in pregnancy: Methotrexate, NSAIDs (3rd trimester), Tetracyclines, Fluoroquinolones, Valproate (high dose), Carbimazole (1st trimester - use PTU instead)
- Ranitidine has been largely withdrawn globally (NDMA contamination) - use Famotidine as H2-blocker substitute
- All doses are for standard adults. Always verify for individual patients and consult a qualified prescriber.
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