Drugs & Medications

Norvasc, Amlopin, Amlo-Eze, Amlovas, Emzor Amlodipine

Amlodipine is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for high blood pressure (hypertension) and chest pain (angina) in Nigeria. It belongs to the calcium channel blocker class and works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which reduces the effort required by the heart and lowers blood pressure. Amlodipine is taken once daily, has a long duration of action, and is well tolerated by most patients. It is particularly recommended for older adults and patients of African descent, who tend to respond especially well to calcium channel blockers.

Amoxil, Wymox, Tримокс, Beecham Amoxicillin, Emzor Amoxicillin, Ranmoxy

Amoxicillin is one of the most widely prescribed antibiotics in Nigeria and worldwide. It belongs to the penicillin group of antibiotics and works by preventing bacteria from building their cell walls, causing them to break down and die. Amoxicillin is effective against a wide range of bacterial infections and is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid (suspension) forms, making it practical for both adults and children. Like all antibiotics, amoxicillin is ineffective against viral infections such as the common cold, flu, or COVID-19. Misuse and overuse of amoxicillin — a very serious and growing problem in Nigeria — promotes antibiotic resistance.

Coartem, Lonart, Lumether, Co-Arinate, Lumartem

Artemether-lumefantrine is the most widely used artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) for the treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria — the most dangerous and prevalent type of malaria in Nigeria. It is the first-line treatment recommended by the Nigeria National Malaria Treatment Guidelines and the World Health Organization. The drug contains two active ingredients that work together through different mechanisms to kill malaria parasites, making it highly effective and reducing the risk of drug resistance developing. It is commercially available in Nigeria under brand names including Coartem and Lonart.

Lipitor, Atorva, Tonact, Aztor

Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to lower high cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. It works by blocking an enzyme in the liver (HMG-CoA reductase) that is responsible for producing cholesterol. Lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and the need for heart surgery. It is one of the most widely prescribed medicines worldwide and is on the WHO Essential Medicines List.

Zithromax, Azithrocin, Azimax, Azimac, Zentavion

Azithromycin is a broad-spectrum macrolide antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is particularly valued for its convenient once-daily dosing and short treatment courses (often 3–5 days) compared to other antibiotics. Azithromycin concentrates in tissue and has a long half-life, meaning effective drug levels are maintained for several days after the last dose. It is effective against a range of respiratory pathogens, sexually transmitted infections, and certain atypical bacteria. In Nigeria, it is widely used for respiratory tract infections, sexually transmitted infections, and as part of trachoma control programmes.