Pyrimethamine
Information about Pyrimethamine
Pyrimethamine uses
Pyrimethamine is used in the treatment of malaria.
How pyrimethamine works
Pyrimethamine is an antiparasitic medication which treats malaria. It works by increasing the levels of haeme in the blood, a substance toxic to the malarial parasite. This kills the parasite and stops the infection from spreading.
Common side effects of pyrimethamine
Abnormal bruising, Abnormal skin pigmentation, Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Change in blood test results, Dizziness, Headache, Vomiting, Weakness, Diarrhea, Nausea
Available Medicine for Pyrimethamine
Expert advice for Pyrimethamine
- Pyrimethamine should be taken with food to prevent a stomach upset.
- Finish the prescribed course, even if you start to feel better. Stopping it early may make the infection come back and harder to treat.
- Tips to reduce the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes:
- Wear light-colored and covered clothing when you are outside after sunset.
- Use insect repellent creams or sprays on parts of your body not covered by clothing.
- Spray to kill any mosquitoes that may have entered rooms in spite of screening.
- Inform your doctor if you have kidney liver or heart disease.
Frequently asked questions for Pyrimethamine
Pyrimethamine
Q. Is Pyrimethamine safe?
Pyrimethamine is safe if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Take it exactly as directed and do not skip any dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and let your doctor know if any of the side effects bother you.
Q. Who should not use Pyrimethamine?
Use of Pyrimethamine should be avoided in patients who are allergic to Pyrimethamine or any of its components. However, if you are not aware of any allergy or if you are using Pyrimethamine for the first time, consult your doctor.
Q. What should I tell my doctor before starting treatment with Pyrimethamine?
Before starting treatment with Pyrimethamine, inform your doctor if you have any other health conditions like kidney or heart-related problems. This is because certain medical conditions may affect your treatment and you may even need dose modifications. Also, let your doctor know about all the other medicines you are taking because they may affect, or be affected by, this medicine. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.