PharmacologyLesson 1 of 1 in the course Anti-infective Drugs

Antiparasitic Drugs for Protozoa, Ectoparasites, and Helminths

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

This lesson introduces common parasitic infections and the antiprotozoal medicines used to treat selected infections. Accurate identification of the causative organism matters because different parasites require different treatments.

A parasite lives in or on a host and benefits at the host’s expense. Parasitic infections can affect anyone, though their effects and prevalence may be greater among people with compromised immune systems and people facing social or economic barriers to sanitation and health care.

All flashcards

What is an important safety risk of lindane?
Excessive, repeated, or prolonged use can cause central nervous system excitation and seizures.
Why is nit-combing recommended after pediculicide treatment?
Pediculicides do not kill nits, so fine-tooth combing removes eggs that could hatch and contribute to reinfestation.
How does mebendazole affect susceptible helminths?
It inhibits microtubule formation and blocks glucose uptake.
How does tinidazole compare with metronidazole in half-life?
Tinidazole has a longer half-life, which can make dosing more convenient.
How may ivermectin be used for different parasites?
Topical ivermectin may treat lice or scabies; oral ivermectin may treat selected helminth infections.

Quiz questions

  1. How does permethrin kill susceptible parasites?Answer: It causes neuronal hyperpolarization and paralysis.
  2. What serious effect can follow excessive or prolonged lindane use?Answer: Central nervous system excitation that can lead to seizures.
  3. How does malathion act against parasites?Answer: It inhibits acetylcholinesterase, causing acetylcholine to accumulate.
  4. What is a key use distinction between scabicides and pediculicides?Answer: Scabicides treat scabies, while pediculicides treat lice.
  5. Which route may be used for ivermectin when treating selected helminth infections?Answer: Oral administration.

Based on Pharmacology for Nurses by Tina Barbour-Taylor, Leah Mueller (Sabato), Donna Paris, Dorie Weaver (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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