Primaquine
Primaquine is a medication used to treat and prevent malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale. It works by killing the malaria parasites in the liver and preventing their spread to the blood. It is usually taken orally once a day for 14 days, and can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. It is not recommended for use in people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
- 7.5mg
What is Primaquine used for?
Primaquine is a medication used to treat and prevent malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale. It is also used in combination with other medications to treat malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum.
How does Primaquine work?
Primaquine works by killing the malaria parasites in the liver and preventing their spread to the blood. It is active against the dormant liver stage of the parasites, which is not targeted by other antimalarial medications.
How is Primaquine taken?
Primaquine is usually taken orally once a day for 14 days. It is best taken with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset. The dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on the type of malaria being treated and the patient's age, weight, and medical history.
What are the side effects of Primaquine?
Primaquine can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, and itching. It can also cause hemolytic anemia in people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, a genetic condition that affects red blood cells.
Who should not take Primaquine?
Primaquine should not be taken by people with G6PD deficiency, as it can cause severe hemolytic anemia. It is also not recommended for use in pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and people with liver or kidney disease.
Can Primaquine be taken with other medications?
Primaquine can interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, and certain antibiotics. It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking before starting Primaquine.
How effective is Primaquine in preventing malaria?
Primaquine is highly effective in preventing malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale. It is also effective in combination with other medications for preventing malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum.
Can Primaquine be used to treat other diseases?
Primaquine is primarily used to treat and prevent malaria. However, it has also been used to treat other diseases such as leishmaniasis, a parasitic infection transmitted by sandflies.
Is Primaquine available over-the-counter?
Primaquine is a prescription-only medication and is not available over-the-counter. It can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Primaquine?
If you miss a dose of Primaquine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What are known local names of the medication?
- Primaquine sulfate
- Primaquine phosphate
- Primaquine diphosphate
- Primaquine gluconate
- Primaquine bisphosphate
- Primaquine mesylate
- Primaquine tartrate
- Primaquine hemiphosphate
- Primaquine hydrochloride
- Primaquine citrate