Question:

The drug of choice (DOC) for Isospora (Cystoisospora) infection is:

Show Hint

An antifolate antibiotic, not a penicillin, clears this coccidian.
Updated On: Jun 23, 2026
  • Penicillin G
  • Benzathine penicillin
  • Co-trimoxazole
  • Albendazole
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Isospora (Cystoisospora belli) is a coccidian protozoan that causes watery diarrhea, especially in immunocompromised and HIV patients.
Step 2: The drug of choice is co-trimoxazole (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole), which targets the parasite's folate pathway.
Step 3: A typical immunocompetent regimen is trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 160/800 mg orally twice daily for 7 to 10 days, with longer courses and secondary prophylaxis in HIV.
Step 4: Penicillin G and benzathine penicillin act on bacteria, not coccidia, and albendazole treats helminths, so none of them is effective. The answer is co-trimoxazole.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0