Pimaquin
Pimaquin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Pimaquin is a brand name. Its generic name is Primaquine.
Introduction
Pimaquin is an antimalarial medication used to treat and prevent certain types of malaria. It is also used as a prophylaxis, which is used to prevent the further spread of malaria after initial treatment. Pimaquin belongs to a group of antimalarials called 8-amino-quinolines.Uses For
Pimaquin is used to treat and prevent certain types of malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. It is also used as a prophylaxis (preventive medication) against further accusations of malaria in travelers in areas that are infected with Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum. Pimaquin should not be used in children under 8 years old.Mechanism Of Action
Pimaquin works by interfering with two essential proteins involved in the synthesis of DNA in the malaria parasite. It inhibits the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase and interferes with the electron transport system, both of which are essential for the parasite to survive. Pimaquin also has a role in preventing the transmission of the malaria parasite to uninfected mosquito vectors.How Long Does It Take To Work?
Pimaquin usually takes effect within 1-2 hours of ingestion. The effects of Pimaquin can last up to 48 hours, so it is important to take the medication as prescribed by a physician.Absorption
Pimaquin is absorbed quickly and completely from the gastrointestinal tract. It has an apparent volume of distribution of 1.31 L/kg and an apparent bioavailability of 42%.Route Of Elimination
Pimaquin is eliminated primarily by the kidneys. It has an elimination half-life of 23 hours.Dosage
The recommended dosage for Pimaquin depends on the condition being treated. For prophylaxis, the usual dosage is 15mg orally once daily for 7 days. For treatment of acute malaria, the usual dosage is 15mg orally once daily for 14 days. It is important to take Pimaquin exactly as prescribed by a physician.Administration
Pimaquin should be taken with food or a full glass of water. It should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level of medication in the bloodstream.Side Effects
The most common side effects of Pimaquin include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, hair loss, hepatitis, rash, and anemia.Toxicity
The toxic effects of Pimaquin include changes in behavior, disorientation, difficulty breathing, and seizures.Precautions
Before taking Pimaquin, it is important to inform your physician if you have liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, or any allergies.Interactions
Pimaquin can interact with other drugs, including antacids, certain antibiotics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).Disease Interactions
Pimaquin can worsen certain diseases, including cancer, diabetes, anemia, and liver or kidney disease.Drug Interactions
Pimaquin can interact with certain drugs, including antacids, certain antibiotics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).Food Interactions
It is important to take Pimaquin with food to reduce the risk of interactions.Pregnancy use
Pimaquin should not be used in pregnant women, as it may cause serious birth defects.Lactationuse
Pimaquin should not be used while breastfeeding as it may be passed to the infant through breast milk.Acute Overdose
The symptoms of an acute overdose may include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect an overdose, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.Contraindication
Pimaquin should not be used in people with certain conditions, including porphyria, G6PD deficiency, severe anemia, and hemolytic anemia.Use Direction
Pimaquin should be taken as prescribed by a physician. Do not take more or less than the recommended amount.Storage Condition
Pimaquin should be stored in a cool, dry place, at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children and pets.Volume Of Distribution
Pimaquin has an apparent volume of distribution of 1.31 L/kg.Half Life
Pimaquin has an elimination half-life of 23 hours.Clearance
Pimaquin is eliminated primarily by the kidneys.Here you find in details version of Pimaquin
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Pimaquin
What is Pimaquin?
Pimaquin is an antimalarial medication used to treat and prevent malaria infection.
How does Pimaquin work?
Pimaquin works by killing the malaria parasites in the liver. It also prevents the parasites from multiplying and spreading.
What is the active ingredient in Pimaquin?
The active ingredient in Pimaquin is primaquine phosphate.
How long does it take for Pimaquin to work?
Pimaquin typically begins to work within 24 hours of taking the medication.
What are the side effects of Pimaquin?
Typical side effects of Pimaquin include headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.
Is Pimaquin safe to take during pregnancy?
Pimaquin should not be used during pregnancy, as it can cause harm to the unborn baby.
Is Pimaquin safe for children?
Pimaquin is generally not recommended for use in children under the age of 16.
Does Pimaquin interact with other medications?
Yes, Pimaquin can interact with other medications, including antacids, antibiotics, antivirals, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
What is the recommended dosage of Pimaquin?
The recommended dosage of Pimaquin is 0.5-1 tablet per day for adults and 0.25-0.5 tablet per day for children aged 16 and over.
What is the difference between Pimaquin and chloroquine?
Pimaquin is an antimalarial medication used to treat and prevent malaria infections, while chloroquine is an antimalarial medication used to treat and prevent malaria infections and also reduce inflammation in some autoimmune diseases.
Does Pimaquin need to be taken with food?
It is recommended to take Pimaquin with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Pimaquin?
If you miss a dose of Pimaquin, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.
How long should I take Pimaquin?
The length of time that Pimaquin should be taken depends on your individual medical condition. Your doctor will advise you on how long to take the medication.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Pimaquin?
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Pimaquin, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
What is the generic name for Pimaquin?
The generic name for Pimaquin is primaquine phosphate.
Is Pimaquin an antibiotic?
No, Pimaquin is not an antibiotic; it is an antimalarial medication.
Can I buy Pimaquin over the counter?
No, Pimaquin is a prescription-only medication and cannot be bought over the counter.
Can Pimaquin be used to treat other conditions?
No, Pimaquin is only used to treat and prevent malaria infection.
What is the price of Pimaquin?
The price of Pimaquin varies depending on the manufacturer and dosage. Your pharmacy can provide you with the most up-to-date pricing information.
Can Pimaquin cause liver damage?
Yes, Pimaquin can cause liver damage in some individuals. If you have any liver problems, speak to your doctor before taking Pimaquin.
Does Pimaquin cause drowsiness?
Yes, Pimaquin can cause drowsiness in some individuals. If you experience drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery.
Does Pimaquin interact with birth control?
Yes, Pimaquin can interact with birth control. It is recommended to use another form of birth control while taking Pimaquin.
Does Pimaquin cause diarrhea?
Yes, Pimaquin can cause diarrhea in some individuals.
Is Pimaquin used to treat malaria?
Yes, Pimaquin is used to treat and prevent malaria infection.
Does Pimaquin cause weight gain?
No, Pimaquin does not typically cause weight gain.
Can I take Pimaquin with other medications?
It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking before taking Pimaquin, as some medications can interact with Pimaquin.
Will Pimaquin work against all strands of malaria?
Pimaquin has been shown to be effective against most strains of malaria; however, it may not work against all strains.
Does Pimaquin cause loss of appetite?
Yes, Pimaquin can cause loss of appetite in some individuals.
When should I start taking Pimaquin?
Your doctor will advise you as to when you should start taking Pimaquin. It is typically recommended to start taking the medication 1-2 days prior to traveling to a malaria-endemic region.
Is Pimaquin safe to take if I have kidney problems?
Yes, Pimaquin is generally considered safe to take if you have kidney problems; however, your doctor may need to adjust the dose or monitor your condition more closely.
Can I take Pimaquin if I have high blood pressure?
Yes, Pimaquin can be taken if you have high blood pressure; however, your doctor may need to adjust the dose or monitor your condition more closely.
Can I take Pimaquin for longer than the recommended time?
No, Pimaquin should only be taken for the recommended time, as it can cause serious side effects if taken for longer than recommended.
Can Pimaquin be split in half?
Yes, Pimaquin tablets can be safely split in half in order to reduce the dose taken.
What are the symptoms of an overdose on Pimaquin?
Symptoms of an overdose on Pimaquin may include headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Can Pimaquin cause an allergic reaction?
Yes, Pimaquin can cause an allergic reaction in some individuals. Stop taking the medication and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, or swelling.
Is Pimaquin effective against Plasmodium falciparum malaria?
Yes, Pimaquin has been found to be effective against Plasmodium falciparum malaria.
Does Pimaquin cause hair loss?
No, Pimaquin does not typically cause hair loss.
Can I take Pimaquin if I'm breastfeeding?
No, Pimaquin should not be taken while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and cause harm to the baby.
Does Pimaquin need to be taken with food?
It is recommended to take Pimaquin with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
What should I do if I get an upset stomach while taking Pimaquin?
If you experience an upset stomach while taking Pimaquin, try taking the medication with food. If your symptoms persist, speak to your doctor.
Does Pimaquin cause drowsiness?
Yes, Pimaquin can cause drowsiness in some individuals. If you experience drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery.