WHO Model List of Essential Medicines

• Halothane
• Isoflurane
• Nitrous oxide
• Oxygen
• Sevoflurane

• Ketamine
• Propofol
• Thiopental

• Bupivacaine
• Lidocaine
• Lidocaine/epinephrine (lidocaine + epinephrine)

Complementary:

• Ephedrine{{ref|Alpha|α}}(For use in spinal anaesthesia during delivery, to prevent hypotension).

• Atropine
• Midazolam
• Morphine

• OxygenNo more than 30% oxygen should be used to initiate resuscitation of neonates less than or equal to 32 weeks of gestation.

File:Aspirin-skeletal.svg of the chemical structure of aspirin]]

• Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)
• IbuprofenNot in children less than three months.
• ParacetamolNot recommended for anti‐inflammatory use due to lack of proven benefit to that effect. (acetaminophen)

• Codeine
• FentanylFor the management of cancer pain
• MorphineHydromorphone and oxycodone are alternatives

Complementary:

• Methadone{{ref|Alpha|α}}For the management of cancer pain.

• Amitriptyline
• Cyclizine
• Dexamethasone
• Diazepam
• Docusate sodium
• Fluoxetine
• Haloperidol
• Hyoscine butylbromide
• Hyoscine hydrobromide
• Lactulose
• Loperamide
• Metoclopramide
• Midazolam
• OndansetronDolasetron, granisetron, palonosetron, and tropisetron are alternatives
• Senna

• Dexamethasone
• Epinephrine (adrenaline)
• Hydrocortisone
• LoratadineCetirizine and fexofenadine are alternativesThere may be a role for sedating antihistamines for limited indications (EMLc).
• PrednisolonePrednisone is an alternative

• Charcoal, activated

• Acetylcysteine
• Atropine
• Calcium gluconate
• Methylthioninium chloride (methylene blue)
• Naloxone
• Penicillamine
• Prussian blue
• Sodium nitrite
• Sodium thiosulfate

Complementary:

• Deferoxamine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Dimercaprol{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Fomepizole{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Sodium calcium edetate{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Succimer{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Carbamazepine
• Diazepam
• LamotrigineFor use as adjunctive therapy for treatment-resistant partial or generalized seizures.
• Levetiracetam
• LorazepamDiazepam and midazolam are alternatives
• Magnesium sulfateFor use in eclampsia and severe pre‐eclampsia and not for other convulsant disorders.
• MidazolamFor 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{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Levetiracetam{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Valproic acid (sodium valproate){{ref|Alpha|α}}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:

• Cladribine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Glatiramer acetate{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Rituximab{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• BiperidenTrihexyphenidyl is an alternative
• Levodopa/carbidopa (levodopa + carbidopa)benserazide is an alternative for carbidopa

File:Albendazole.svg

• Albendazole
• Ivermectin
• Levamisole
• Mebendazole
• Niclosamide
• Praziquantel
• Pyrantel

• Albendazole
• Diethylcarbamazine
• Ivermectin

• Praziquantel
• Triclabendazole

Complementary:

• Oxamniquine{{ref|Alpha|α}}Oxamniquine is listed for use when praziquantel treatment fails.

Complementary:

• Albendazole{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Mebendazole{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Praziquantel{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Amikacin
• Amoxicillin
• Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (amoxicillin + clavulanic acid)
• Ampicillin
• 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.
• DoxycyclineUse in children <8 years only for life-threatening infections when no alternative exists.
• Gentamicin
• Metronidazole
• 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

• Azithromycin
• Cefixime
• CefotaximeThird-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
• ClarithromycinErythromycin 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)
• VancomycinVancomycin powder for injection may also be used for oral administration

Complementary:

• Ceftazidime{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Meropenem{{ref|Alpha|α}}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
• Vancomycin{{ref|Alpha|α}}

Reserve antibiotics are last-resort antibiotics. The EML antibiotic book was published in 2022.{{cite web |date=24 November 2021 |title=The WHO Essential Medicines List Antibiotic Book |url=https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/the-who-essential-medicines-list-antibiotic-book |access-date=2022-10-06 |website=World Health Organization (WHO) }}{{cite book | title=The WHO AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) antibiotic book | location=Geneva | publisher=World Health Organization (WHO) | year=2022 | url=https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240062382 | access-date=29 January 2023 | isbn=978-92-4-006238-2 }}{{cite book | title=The WHO AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) antibiotic book - Infographics | location=Geneva | publisher=World Health Organization (WHO) | year=2022 | url=https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-MHP-HPS-EML-2022.02 | access-date=29 January 2023 | id=WHO/MHP/HPS/EML/2022.02 }}

Complementary:

• Cefiderocol{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Ceftazidime/avibactam (ceftazidime + avibactam){{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Ceftolozane/tazobactam (ceftolozane + tazobactam){{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Colistin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Fosfomycin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Linezolid{{ref|Alpha|α}}Tedizolid phosphate is an alternative
• Meropenem/vaborbactam (meropenem + vaborbactam){{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Plazomicin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Polymyxin B{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Clofazimine
• Dapsone
• Rifampicin

File:Ethambutol substance photo.jpg

• Ethambutol
• Ethambutol/isoniazid/pyrazinamide/rifampicin (ethambutol + isoniazid + pyrazinamide + rifampicin)
• Ethambutol/isoniazid/rifampicin (ethambutol + isoniazid + rifampicin)
• Ethionamide
• Isoniazid
• Isoniazid/pyrazinamide/rifampicin (isoniazid + pyrazinamide + rifampicin)
• Isoniazid/rifampicin (isoniazid + rifampicin)
• Isoniazid/rifapentine (isoniazid + rifapentine)
• Moxifloxacin
• Pyrazinamide
• RifabutinFor use only in patients with HIV receiving protease inhibitors.
• Rifampicin
• Rifapentine

Complementary:

• Amikacin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (amoxicillin + clavulanic acid){{ref|Alpha|α}}For use only in combination with meropenem or imipenem/cilastatin.
• Bedaquiline{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Clofazimine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Cycloserine{{ref|Alpha|α}}Terizidone is an alternative
• Delamanid{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Ethionamide{{ref|Alpha|α}}Prothionamide is an alternative
• Levofloxacin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Linezolid{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Meropenem{{ref|Alpha|α}}Imipenem/cilastatin is an alternative
• Moxifloxacin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• P-aminosalicylic acid (p-aminosalicylate sodium){{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Pretomanid{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Streptomycin{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Amphotericin B
• Clotrimazole
• Fluconazole
• Flucytosine
• Griseofulvin
• ItraconazoleFor treatment of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, histoplasmosis, sporotrichosis, paracoccidioidomycosis, mycoses caused by Talaromyces marneffei and chromoblastomycosis; and prophylaxis of histoplasmosis and infections caused by Talaromyces marneffei in AIDS patients.
• Nystatin
• VoriconazoleFor treatment of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis and acute invasive aspergillosis.

Complementary:

• Micafungin{{ref|Alpha|α}}Anidulafungin and caspofungin are alternatives
• Potassium iodide{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• AciclovirValaciclovir is an alternative

• Abacavir
• Lamivudine
• Tenofovir disoproxil fumaratealso indicated for pre-exposure prophylaxis.
• Zidovudine

• Efavirenz
• Nevirapine 6 weeks

File:Atazanavir (Reyataz)200mg.jpg

• Atazanavir/ritonavir (atazanavir + ritonavir)
• Darunavir 3 years
• Lopinavir/ritonavir (lopinavir + ritonavir)
• Ritonavir

• Dolutegravir
• RaltegravirFor use in pregnant women and in second-line regimens in accordance with WHO treatment guidelines.

• Abacavir/lamivudine (abacavir + lamivudine)
• Dolutegravir/lamivudine/tenofovir (dolutegravir + lamivudine + tenofovir)
• Efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovirlamivudine 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)

• Isoniazid/pyridoxine/sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (isoniazid + pyridoxine + sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim)

• RibavirinFor the treatment of viral haemorrhagic fevers
• ValganciclovirFor the treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVr).

Complementary:

• Oseltamivir{{ref|Alpha|α}}For severe illness due to confirmed or suspected influenza virus infection in critically ill hospitalized patients
• Valganciclovir{{ref|Alpha|α}}For the treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVr).

• Entecavir
• Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate

• 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)

• Ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (ledipasvir + sofosbuvir)

• RibavirinFor the treatment of hepatitis C, in combination with direct acting anti-viral medicines

• Diloxanide 25 kg.
• MetronidazoleTinidazole is an alternative

• Amphotericin BLiposomal 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

• 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
• DoxycyclineFor use only in combination with quinine.
• Mefloquine
• PrimaquineOnly for use to achieve radical cure of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale infections, given for 14 days.
• QuinineFor use only in the management of severe malaria, and should be used in combination with doxycycline.
• Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (sulfadoxine + pyrimethamine)Only in combination with artesunate 50 mg.

• Amodiaquine + sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (Co-packaged)
• ChloroquineFor use only in Central American regions, for Plasmodium vivax infections.
• Doxycycline 8 years.
• Mefloquine 5 kg or > 3 months.
• ProguanilFor use only in combination with chloroquine.
• Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (sulfadoxine + pyrimethamine)

• Pyrimethamine
• Sulfadiazine
• Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim)

Complementary:

• Pentamidine{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• FexinidazoleFor the treatment of 1st and 2nd stage human African trypanosomiasis due to Trypanosoma brucei gambiense infection.

• 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.

• 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{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Benznidazole
• Nifurtimox

• Ivermectin

• Ansuvimab
• Atoltivimab/maftivimab/odesivimab (atoltivimab + maftivimab + odesivimab)

No listings in this section.

• Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)
• Ibuprofen
• Paracetamol (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

• Propranolol

Complementary:

• Adalimumab{{ref|Alpha|α}}Certolizumab pegol, etanercept, golimumab and infliximab are alternatives, including quality-assured biosimilars
• Azathioprine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Ciclosporin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Tacrolimus{{ref|Alpha|α}}

Complementary:

• Arsenic trioxide{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Asparaginase{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Bendamustine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Bleomycin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Calcium folinate (leucovorin calcium){{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Capecitabine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Carboplatin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Chlorambucil{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Cisplatin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Cyclophosphamide{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Cytarabine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Dacarbazine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Dactinomycin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Daunorubicin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Docetaxel{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Doxorubicin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Doxorubicin (as pegylated liposomal){{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Etoposide{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Fludarabine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Fluorouracil{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Gemcitabine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea){{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Ifosfamide{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Irinotecan{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Melphalan{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Mercaptopurine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Methotrexate{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Oxaliplatin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Paclitaxel{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Pegaspargase{{ref|Alpha|α}}Including quality-assured biosimilars
• Procarbazine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Realgar Indigo naturalis formulation{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Tioguanine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Vinblastine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Vincristine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Vinorelbine{{ref|Alpha|α}}

Complementary:

• All-trans retinoic acid (tretinoin) (ATRA){{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Bortezomib{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Dasatinib{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Erlotinib{{ref|Alpha|α}}Afatinib and gefitinib are alternatives
• Everolimus{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Ibrutinib{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Imatinib{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Nilotinib{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Rituximab{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Trastuzumab{{ref|Alpha|α}}

Complementary:

• Filgrastim{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Lenalidomide{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Nivolumab{{ref|Alpha|α}}Pembrolizumab is an alternative, including quality-assured biosimilars
• Pegfilgrastim{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Thalidomide{{ref|Alpha|α}}

Complementary:

• Abiraterone{{ref|Alpha|α}}Enzalutamide is an alternative
• Anastrozole{{ref|Alpha|α}}Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (L02BG Aromatase inhibitors)
• Bicalutamide{{ref|Alpha|α}}Flutamide and nilutamide are alternatives
• Dexamethasone{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Hydrocortisone{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Leuprorelin{{ref|Alpha|α}}Goserelin and triptorelin are alternatives
• Methylprednisolone{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Prednisolone{{ref|Alpha|α}}Prednisone is an alternative
• Tamoxifen{{ref|Alpha|α}}

Complementary:

• Allopurinol{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Mesna{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Rasburicase{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Zoledronic acid{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• 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.

• Ferrous salt
• Ferrous salt/folic acid (ferrous salt + folic acid)
• Folic acidpericonceptual use for prevention of first occurrence of neural tube defects
• Hydroxocobalamin

Complementary:

• Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents{{ref|Alpha|α}}Epoetin alfa, beta and theta; darbepoetin alfa; methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta; and their quality-assured biosimilars are alternatives

• DabigatranApixaban, 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{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Heparin sodium{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Protamine sulfate{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Warfarin{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• DeferasiroxDeferiprone is an alternative

Complementary:

• Deferoxamine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea){{ref|Alpha|α}}

File:FreshFrozenPlasma.JPG

• Cryoprecipitate, pathogen-reducedcryoprecipitate (not pathogen-reduced) is an alternative
• Fresh frozen plasma
• Platelets
• Red blood cells
• Whole blood

• Rho(D) immune globulin (anti-D immunoglobulin)
• Anti-rabies immunoglobulin
• Anti-tetanus immunoglobulin

Complementary:

• Normal immunoglobulin{{ref|Alpha|α}}

Complementary:

• Coagulation factor VIII{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Coagulation factor IX{{ref|Alpha|α}}coagulation factor IX complex is an alternative

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

• BisoprololCarvedilol and metoprolol are alternatives
• Glyceryl trinitrate
• Isosorbide dinitrate
• Verapamil

• Bisoprolol
• Digoxin
• Epinephrine (adrenaline)
• Lidocaine
• Verapamil

Complementary:

• Amiodarone{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• AmlodipineAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (C08CA Dihydropyridine derivatives)
• BisoprololIncludes atenolol, 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.
• HydrochlorothiazideChlorothiazide, 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{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Bisoprolol
• Digoxin
• EnalaprilAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain)
• FurosemideBumetanide and torasemide are alternatives
• Hydrochlorothiazide
• Losartan
• Spironolactone

Complementary:

• Digoxin{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Dopamine{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)
• Clopidogrel

Complementary:

• Alteplase{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Streptokinase{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• SimvastatinFor use in high‐risk patients. Atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, and pravastatin are alternatives

• Acetylsalicylic acid/atorvastatin/ramipril (acetylsalicylic acid + atorvastatin + ramipril)fluvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin are alternatives for atorvastatin4th level ATC chemical subgroup (C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain) are alternatives for ramipril
• Acetylsalicylic acid/simvastatin/ramipril/atenolol/hydrochlorothiazide (acetylsalicylic acid + simvastatin + ramipril + atenolol + hydrochlorothiazide)atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, and pravastatin are alternatives for simvastatinbisoprolol, carvedilol, and metoprolol are alternatives for atenololchlorthalidone, chlorothiazide, and indapamide are alternatives for hydrochlorothiazide
• Atorvastatin/perindopril/amlodipine (atorvastatin + 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

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

• Mupirocin
• Potassium permanganate
• Silver sulfadiazine

• BetamethasoneAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (D07AC Corticosteroids, potent (group III))
• Calamine
• HydrocortisoneAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (D07AA Corticosteroids, weak (group I))

• Benzoyl peroxide
• CalcipotriolCalcitriol and tacalcitol are alternatives
• Coal tar
• Fluorouracil
• Podophyllum resinPodophyllotoxin is an alternative
• Salicylic acid
• Urea

Complementary:

• Methotrexate{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Benzyl benzoateprecipitated sulfur topical ointment is an alternative
• Permethrin

• Fluorescein
• TropicamideAtropine and cyclopentolate are alternatives

• Amidotrizoate
• Barium sulfate
• Iohexol

Complementary:

• Barium sulfate{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Meglumine iotroxate{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Chlorhexidine
• EthanolPropanol is an alternative
• Povidone iodineIodine is an alternative

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

• Amiloride
• FurosemideBumetanide and torasemide are alternatives
• Hydrochlorothiazide
• Mannitol
• Spironolactone

Complementary:

• Hydrochlorothiazide{{ref|Alpha|α}}Chlorothiazide and chlorthalidone are alternatives
• Mannitol{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Spironolactone{{ref|Alpha|α}}

Complementary:

• Pancreatic enzymes{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• 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

• Dexamethasone
• Metoclopramide
• Ondansetron

Complementary:

• Aprepitant{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• SulfasalazineMesalazine is an alternative

Complementary:

• Hydrocortisone{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Prednisolone{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• SennaBisacodyl is an alternative

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

• Oral rehydration salts

• Zinc sulfateIn acute diarrhoea zinc sulfate should be used as an adjunct to oral rehydration salts.

• Fludrocortisone
• Hydrocortisone

Complementary:

• Testosterone{{ref|Alpha|α}}

No listings in this section.

• Medroxyprogesterone acetateNorethisterone is an alternative

• Insulin injection (soluble)
• Intermediate-acting insulin
• Long-acting insulin analoguesInsulin degludec, insulin detemir, and insulin glargine, including quality-assured biosimilars are alternatives

• EmpagliflozinCanagliflozin and dapagliflozin are alternatives
• GliclazideGlibenclamide not suitable above 60 years. Alternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (A10BB Sulfonylureas)
• Metformin

Complementary:

• Metformin{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Glucagon

Complementary:

• Diazoxide{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Levothyroxine
• Potassium iodide
• MethimazoleCarbimazole 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{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Methimazole{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Potassium iodide{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Propylthiouracil{{ref|Alpha|α}}For use when alternative first-line treatment is not appropriate or available

• Cabergolinebromocriptine is an alternative

Complementary:

• Octreotide{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Tuberculin, purified protein derivative (PPD)

• Anti-rabies virus monoclonal antibodies
• Antivenom immunoglobulinExact type to be defined locally
• Diphtheria antitoxin
• Equine rabies immunoglobulin

File:Dukoral package vaccine vial.jpg

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

• Atracurium
• Neostigmine
• Suxamethonium
• Vecuroniumatracurium is an alternative

Complementary:

• Pyridostigmine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Vecuronium{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Aciclovir
• Azithromycin
• ErythromycinFor infections due to Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
• GentamicinAmikacin, kanamycin, netilmicin, and tobramycin are alternatives
• Natamycin
• OfloxacinAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (S01AE Fluoroquinolones)
• TetracyclineChlortetracycline and oxytetracycline are alternatives

• Prednisolone

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

• Acetazolamide
• Latanoprost
• PilocarpineCarbachol is an alternative
• TimololAlternatives are 4th level ATC chemical subgroup (S01ED Beta blocking agents) excluding combinations

• AtropineCyclopentolate hydrochloride or homatropine hydrobromide are alternatives only for the EMLc

Complementary:

• Epinephrine (adrenaline){{ref|Alpha|α}}

Complementary:

• Bevacizumab{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Ethinylestradiol/levonorgestrel (ethinylestradiol + levonorgestrel)
• Ethinylestradiol/norethisterone (ethinylestradiol + norethisterone)
• Levonorgestrel
• Ulipristal

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

• Copper-containing device
• Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system

• Condoms
• Diaphragms

• Etonogestrel-releasing implant
• Levonorgestrel-releasing implant

• Ethinylestradiol/etonogestrel (ethinylestradiol + etonogestrel)
• Progesterone vaginal ringFor use in women actively breastfeeding at least 4 times per day

Complementary:

• Clomifene{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Letrozole{{ref|Alpha|α}}anastrozole is an alternative

• Carbetocin
• ErgometrineMethylergometrine 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

• Nifedipine

• Dexamethasone
• Multiple micronutrient supplement
• Tranexamic acid

• Caffeine citrate
• Chlorhexidine

Complementary:

• Ibuprofen{{ref|Alpha|α}}Indometacin is an alternative
• Prostaglandin E1{{ref|Alpha|α}}Prostaglandin E2 is an alternative
• Surfactant{{ref|Alpha|α}}

Complementary:

• Intraperitoneal dialysis solution (of appropriate composition){{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Fluphenazinehaloperidol decanonate and zuclopenthixol decanonate are alternatives
• HaloperidolChlorpromazine is an alternative for the tablet
• Olanzapine
• PaliperidoneRisperidone injection is an alternative
• Risperidonearipiprazole, olanzapine, paliperidone, and quetiapine are alternatives

Complementary:

• Clozapine{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Amitriptyline
• FluoxetineCitalopram, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline are alternatives

• Carbamazepine
• Lithium carbonate
• Quetiapinearipiprazole, olanzapine, and paliperidone are alternatives
• Valproic acid (sodium valproate)

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

• Clomipramine
• Fluoxetine

• Acamprosate calcium
• Naltrexone

• Bupropion
• Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
• Varenicline

Complementary:

• Methadone{{ref|Alpha|α}}buprenorphine is an alternative. The medicines should only be used within an established support programme.

• BudesonideBeclometasone, 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
• SalbutamolTerbutaline is an alternative
• TiotropiumAclidinium, glycopyrronium, and umeclidinium are alternatives

• Oral rehydration salts
• Potassium chloride

• Glucose
• Glucose with sodium chloride
• Potassium chloride
• Sodium chloride
• Sodium hydrogen carbonate
• Sodium lactate, compound solution (Ringer's lactate solution)

• Water for injection

• Ascorbic acid
• Calcium
• ColecalciferolErgocalciferol is an alternative
• ErgocalciferolColecalciferol is an alternative
• Iodine
• Multiple micronutrient powder
• Nicotinamide
• Pyridoxine
• Retinol
• Riboflavin
• Thiamine

Complementary:

• Calcium gluconate{{ref|Alpha|α}}

• Acetic acid
• Budesonide
• CiprofloxacinOfloxacin is an alternative
• Xylometazoline

• Allopurinol

• Chloroquine

Complementary:

• Azathioprine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Hydroxychloroquine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Methotrexate{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Penicillamine{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Sulfasalazine{{ref|Alpha|α}}

Complementary:

• Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)For use for rheumatic fever, juvenile arthritis, Kawasaki disease
• Adalimumab{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Methotrexate{{ref|Alpha|α}}
• Triamcinolone hexacetonide{{ref|Alpha|α}}triamcinolone acetonide is an alternative

• Fluoride
• 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

{{note label|Alpha}}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.

{{Reflist|group=note}}

{{reflist}}

• {{cite journal | vauthors = Serafini M, Cargnin S, Massarotti A, Pirali T, Genazzani AA | title = Essential Medicinal Chemistry of Essential Medicines | journal = Journal of Medicinal Chemistry | volume = 63 | issue = 18 | pages = 10170–10187 | date = September 2020 | pmid = 32352778 | pmc = 8007110 | doi = 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c00415 | doi-access=free | title-link=doi }}
• {{cite book | title = WHO Model Formulary 2008 | year = 2009 | isbn = 978-92-4-154765-9 |publisher=World Health Organization | veditors = Stuart MC, Kouimtzi M, Hill SR | hdl = 10665/44053 | hdl-access=free }}
• {{cite book | title=The selection and use of essential medicines. Twentieth report of the WHO Expert Committee 2015 (including 19th WHO Model List of Essential Medicines and 5th WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for Children) | year=2015 | publisher=World Health Organization | isbn=978-92-4-069494-1 | hdl=10665/189763 | issn=0512-3054 | location=Geneva | id=WHO technical report series; no. 994 | hdl-access=free }}
• {{cite book | title=The selection and use of essential medicines: report of the WHO Expert Committee, 2017 (including the 20th WHO Model List of Essential Medicines and the 6th Model List of Essential Medicines for Children) | year=2017 | publisher=World Health Organization | isbn=978-92-4-121015-7 | hdl=10665/259481 | issn=0512-3054 | location=Geneva | id=WHO technical report series; no. 1006 | hdl-access=free }}
• {{cite book | year = 2019 | title = The selection and use of essential medicines: report of the WHO Expert Committee on Selection and Use of Essential Medicines, 2019 (including the 21st WHO Model List of Essential Medicines and the 7th WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for Children) | publisher = World Health Organization | location = Geneva | hdl = 10665/330668 | id = WHO technical report series;1021 | hdl-access=free | isbn = 978-92-4-121030-0 | issn = 0512-3054 }}
• {{cite journal |website=World Health Organization |date=2019 | title = Additions and deletions of medicines on the WHO model lists of essential medicines: 1977–2017 |hdl=10665/278038 | id = WHO/MVP/EMP/IAU/2019.01 |url=https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/278038 | vauthors = Organization WH }}

• {{URL|https://list.essentialmeds.org/|eEML - Electronic Essential Medicines List }}

{{Vaccines}}

{{Portal bar|Politics|Medicine|Viruses}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:World Health Organization Essential Medicines, List Of}}

Category:Drug-related lists

Category:Publications established in 1977

Category:Wikipedia medicine articles ready to translate