Primaquine
Primaquine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Primaquine is a brand name. Its generic name is Primaquine.
Introduction
Primaquine 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. Primaquine belongs to a group of antimalarials called 8-amino-quinolines.Uses For
Primaquine 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. Primaquine should not be used in children under 8 years old.Mechanism Of Action
Primaquine 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. Primaquine also has a role in preventing the transmission of the malaria parasite to uninfected mosquito vectors.How Long Does It Take To Work?
Primaquine usually takes effect within 1-2 hours of ingestion. The effects of Primaquine can last up to 48 hours, so it is important to take the medication as prescribed by a physician.Absorption
Primaquine 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
Primaquine is eliminated primarily by the kidneys. It has an elimination half-life of 23 hours.Dosage
The recommended dosage for Primaquine 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 Primaquine exactly as prescribed by a physician.Administration
Primaquine 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 Primaquine include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, hair loss, hepatitis, rash, and anemia.Toxicity
The toxic effects of Primaquine include changes in behavior, disorientation, difficulty breathing, and seizures.Precautions
Before taking Primaquine, 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
Primaquine can interact with other drugs, including antacids, certain antibiotics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).Disease Interactions
Primaquine can worsen certain diseases, including cancer, diabetes, anemia, and liver or kidney disease.Drug Interactions
Primaquine can interact with certain drugs, including antacids, certain antibiotics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).Food Interactions
It is important to take Primaquine with food to reduce the risk of interactions.Pregnancy use
Primaquine should not be used in pregnant women, as it may cause serious birth defects.Lactationuse
Primaquine 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
Primaquine should not be used in people with certain conditions, including porphyria, G6PD deficiency, severe anemia, and hemolytic anemia.Use Direction
Primaquine should be taken as prescribed by a physician. Do not take more or less than the recommended amount.Storage Condition
Primaquine should be stored in a cool, dry place, at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children and pets.Volume Of Distribution
Primaquine has an apparent volume of distribution of 1.31 L/kg.Half Life
Primaquine has an elimination half-life of 23 hours.Clearance
Primaquine is eliminated primarily by the kidneys.Here you find in details version of Primaquine
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Primaquine
What is Primaquine?
Primaquine is an antimalarial medication used to treat and prevent malaria infection.
How does Primaquine work?
Primaquine works by killing the malaria parasites in the liver. It also prevents the parasites from multiplying and spreading.
What is the active ingredient in Primaquine?
The active ingredient in Primaquine is primaquine phosphate.
How long does it take for Primaquine to work?
Primaquine typically begins to work within 24 hours of taking the medication.
What are the side effects of Primaquine?
Typical side effects of Primaquine include headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.
Is Primaquine safe to take during pregnancy?
Primaquine should not be used during pregnancy, as it can cause harm to the unborn baby.
Is Primaquine safe for children?
Primaquine is generally not recommended for use in children under the age of 16.
Does Primaquine interact with other medications?
Yes, Primaquine can interact with other medications, including antacids, antibiotics, antivirals, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
What is the recommended dosage of Primaquine?
The recommended dosage of Primaquine 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 Primaquine and chloroquine?
Primaquine 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 Primaquine need to be taken with food?
It is recommended to take Primaquine with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
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. 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 Primaquine?
The length of time that Primaquine 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 Primaquine?
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Primaquine, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
What is the generic name for Primaquine?
The generic name for Primaquine is primaquine phosphate.
Is Primaquine an antibiotic?
No, Primaquine is not an antibiotic; it is an antimalarial medication.
Can I buy Primaquine over the counter?
No, Primaquine is a prescription-only medication and cannot be bought over the counter.
Can Primaquine be used to treat other conditions?
No, Primaquine is only used to treat and prevent malaria infection.
What is the price of Primaquine?
The price of Primaquine varies depending on the manufacturer and dosage. Your pharmacy can provide you with the most up-to-date pricing information.
Can Primaquine cause liver damage?
Yes, Primaquine can cause liver damage in some individuals. If you have any liver problems, speak to your doctor before taking Primaquine.
Does Primaquine cause drowsiness?
Yes, Primaquine can cause drowsiness in some individuals. If you experience drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery.
Does Primaquine interact with birth control?
Yes, Primaquine can interact with birth control. It is recommended to use another form of birth control while taking Primaquine.
Does Primaquine cause diarrhea?
Yes, Primaquine can cause diarrhea in some individuals.
Is Primaquine used to treat malaria?
Yes, Primaquine is used to treat and prevent malaria infection.
Does Primaquine cause weight gain?
No, Primaquine does not typically cause weight gain.
Can I take Primaquine with other medications?
It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking before taking Primaquine, as some medications can interact with Primaquine.
Will Primaquine work against all strands of malaria?
Primaquine has been shown to be effective against most strains of malaria; however, it may not work against all strains.
Does Primaquine cause loss of appetite?
Yes, Primaquine can cause loss of appetite in some individuals.
When should I start taking Primaquine?
Your doctor will advise you as to when you should start taking Primaquine. It is typically recommended to start taking the medication 1-2 days prior to traveling to a malaria-endemic region.
Is Primaquine safe to take if I have kidney problems?
Yes, Primaquine 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 Primaquine if I have high blood pressure?
Yes, Primaquine 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 Primaquine for longer than the recommended time?
No, Primaquine should only be taken for the recommended time, as it can cause serious side effects if taken for longer than recommended.
Can Primaquine be split in half?
Yes, Primaquine tablets can be safely split in half in order to reduce the dose taken.
What are the symptoms of an overdose on Primaquine?
Symptoms of an overdose on Primaquine may include headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Can Primaquine cause an allergic reaction?
Yes, Primaquine 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 Primaquine effective against Plasmodium falciparum malaria?
Yes, Primaquine has been found to be effective against Plasmodium falciparum malaria.
Does Primaquine cause hair loss?
No, Primaquine does not typically cause hair loss.
Can I take Primaquine if I'm breastfeeding?
No, Primaquine should not be taken while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and cause harm to the baby.
Does Primaquine need to be taken with food?
It is recommended to take Primaquine with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
What should I do if I get an upset stomach while taking Primaquine?
If you experience an upset stomach while taking Primaquine, try taking the medication with food. If your symptoms persist, speak to your doctor.
Does Primaquine cause drowsiness?
Yes, Primaquine can cause drowsiness in some individuals. If you experience drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery.