• List the drugs active against intestinal protozoan organisms and the way in which they work

on who essential list of medicines metronidazole - known originally as an ‘anti-protozoal agent’ works in anerobic enironments to produce toxic radicals (used in intestine) these radicals damage bacterial and protozoal DNA.

in some chronic infections cysts will survive and become resistant to metronidazole in these cases diloxanide furoate should be used

what is it active against?

Active against Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia

SA

Metallic taste is common and can greatly lower adherance

causes an acute nauseous reaction with alcohol

ON WHO LIST OF ESSENTIAL MEDICINES = Diloxanide furoate

luminal amoebicide, is well tolerated with minimal toxicity.

SA

Flatulence, itchiness & Hives

Paromomycin - is an aminoglycoside

given orally but is not absorbed by GIT

what is it active against?

Kills amoebic cystic stage

SA

abdo cramps, diarrhoea, heartburn, nausea, vomiting