Infection Control

Infection Control

Medications used to treat or prevent infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

Acyclovir

Acyclovir, a guanosine analogue antiviral drug, is marketed under brand names such as Cyclovir, Herpex, Acivir, Acivirax, Zovirax, and Zovir. Its primary applications include:

• Treating HSV infections: Cold sores (herpes simplex virus).

• Shingles and chickenpox: Especially in immunocompromised patients.

Acyclovir is available in various forms, including tablets, topical creams, intravenous injections, and ophthalmic ointments. Topical creams are typically used for labial sores and come with minimal side effects.

Chlorhexidine

Chlorhexidine is an effective antiseptic against bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses. Common uses include:

• Contact lens solutions and acne washes.

• Surgical scrubs and treatments for athlete’s foot.

• Dental applications: Active ingredient in mouthwash to fight plaque, oral bacteria, and halitosis.

Important Considerations

• Use in conjunction with fluoride to combat cavities.

• Avoid brushing teeth immediately before rinsing with chlorhexidine, as toothpaste ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate may neutralize its effects.

Side effects may include stained teeth, altered taste sensation, and eye/nose irritation if contact occurs.

Fluconazole

Fluconazole, sold as Diflucan or Trican, is a trusted antifungal medication. Key uses include:

• Treating Candida infections like thrush and denture stomatitis.

• Preventing fungal infections in immunocompromised patients.

Precautions

• Nursing mothers and pregnant women should consult their doctor due to potential risks.

• Long-term, high-dose use has been linked to congenital abnormalities.

Ketoconazole

Ketoconazole, sold under the brand name Nizoral, is a versatile antifungal drug used to treat:

• Infections of the mouth, throat, esophagus, lungs, bladder, and skin.

• Fungal conditions like athlete’s foot, ringworm, candidiasis, and jock itch.

Additional Applications

• Reducing testosterone levels for prostate cancer and post-surgical care.

• Treating Cushing’s disease by suppressing glucocorticoid synthesis.

• Hair loss treatment using Nizoral shampoo.

Tips for Use

• Take with an acidic beverage, like Coca-Cola, to aid absorption.

• Avoid antacids during treatment.

Valacyclovir

Valacyclovir, marketed as Valtrex and Zelitrex, is an antiretroviral used for:

• Managing herpes simplex virus infections.

• Treating shingles (herpes zoster virus).

Common Side Effects

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache.

• Rare but serious side effects: coma, seizures, hepatitis, and anaphylaxis.