Linezolid is a synthetic oxazolidinone antibiotic indicated for serious Gram-positive bacterial infections, including those caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE), and penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae. It is unique for its mechanism of action, broad tissue penetration, high oral bioavailability, and activity against multidrug-resistant pathogens. Chemical Structure and Properties Chemically, Linezolid is known as N-methyl]acetamide. As a synthetic…
Introduction Cholinergic antagonists, also known as parasympatholytics or antimuscarinic agents, are a class of drugs that block the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in the parasympathetic nervous system. These medications have a wide range of therapeutic applications, including the treatment of overactive bladder, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), irritable bowel syndrome, and Parkinson's disease. In this comprehensive…
Antibiotic stewardship refers to coordinated interventions designed to improve and measure the appropriate use of antibiotics by promoting the selection of the optimal antibiotic regimen including dosing, duration, and route of administration. The primary goals are to optimize clinical outcomes, minimize toxicity and adverse events, limit the development of resistance, and reduce unnecessary costs. Why Is Antibiotic Stewardship Important? Core…
Antimalarial drugs are a class of medications specifically designed to prevent and…
Introduction Metronidazole is a widely used antimicrobial agent recognized for its efficacy against…
Introduction Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists have redefined several aspects of endocrine and reproductive…
Introduction to Ketamine Ketamine, a compound initially synthesized in 1962, marked a…
Introduction The landscape of drug discovery has undergone significant changes over the…
Introduction Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) remain a formidable challenge in clinical pharmacology…
Introduction Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by sores…
Introduction Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) encompasses the formation of ulcers in the stomach (gastric ulcer) or duodenum (duodenal…
Introduction Vancomycin is a prominent glycopeptide antibiotic widely recognized for its efficacy…

Main Takeaway: A P-drug is a prescriber’s personal choice of first-line medicine for a specific indication, selected through a systematic and evidence-based process. Developing and maintaining a personal formulary of P-drugs streamlines decision-making, promotes rational therapeutics, and enhances patient safety. 1. Definition and Purpose of P-Drugs A P-drug (“personal drug”) is not merely the generic name of a medicine but encompasses: P-drugs serve as a clinician’s priority choices for given indications, reducing repetitive searches in daily practice and ensuring familiarity with each drug’s effects and side effects. 2. Relation to Essential Medicines and Guidelines 3. The Six-Step Process for Rational Prescribing The WHO Guide to Good Prescribing outlines a six-step model, with P-drug selection comprising Step 3: 4. Criteria for Selecting P-Drugs (The STEP Framework) When comparing drug options, apply the STEP criteria: Example: Selecting a P-Drug for Acute Amoebic Dysentery Among nitroimidazoles, tinidazole may be preferred over metronidazole due to similar efficacy and cost but greater suitability (shorter course, once- or twice-daily dosing). 5. Benefits of a P-Drug Formulary By systematically selecting and regularly reviewing P-drugs according to these principles, prescribers establish a robust foundation for safe, effective, and cost-conscious patient care.
Introduction Mania is a hallmark feature of bipolar disorder and is characterized by heightened mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, grandiosity, and, often, impulsive or reckless behaviors. During manic episodes,…
Subscribe to our newsletter to get our newest articles instantly!
Sign in to your account