Pyrimethamine 25 mg + Sulphadoxine 500 mg

Pyrimethamine 25 mg + Sulphadoxine 500 mg — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is mainly used to treat malaria infection caused by Plasmodium falciparum, especially in areas where resistance to other antimalarials is a concern.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of acute uncomplicated falciparum malaria
• Sometimes used for malaria prevention in specific high-risk situations, only as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Pyrimethamine and Sulphadoxine both interfere with folic acid production inside the malaria parasite
• Blocking two different steps of the same pathway stops the parasite from multiplying
• This combined action makes the parasite less likely to survive and reduces chances of resistance

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for viral fevers, dengue, or typhoid
• Not effective against all types of malaria parasites in every region due to resistance patterns
• Not a general painkiller or fever reducer
• Not recommended for routine prevention of malaria without medical advice

This medicine should only be used under proper diagnosis and medical supervision, as malaria treatment depends on the parasite type and local resistance patterns.

How to Use Pyrimethamine 25 mg + Sulphadoxine 500 mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually as a single dose or short course
• Can be taken with or after food to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow tablets with a full glass of water
• Do not increase or repeat the dose on your own, even if fever continues
• Complete the full course as advised, even if you start feeling better

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Since this medicine is often given as a single dose or short course, contact your doctor if you miss or vomit soon after taking a dose
• Do not take an extra dose without medical advice

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Pyrimethamine 25 mg + Sulphadoxine 500 mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash
• Itching
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal discomfort

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin reactions such as blistering, peeling, or widespread rash
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Severe sore throat, mouth ulcers, or signs of low blood counts like unusual tiredness or infections
• Seizures or severe dizziness

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Pyrimethamine 25 mg + Sulphadoxine 500 mg — Safety Information and Precautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to pyrimethamine, sulphadoxine, or other sulfa drugs
• Have severe liver or kidney disease
• Have a known blood disorder affecting folic acid levels or bone marrow function
• Are in the last weeks of pregnancy or breastfeeding a newborn, unless advised by a doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Have a history of blood disorders or low blood counts
• Have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
• Are taking other antimalarial or antifolate medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antifolate drugs such as methotrexate or trimethoprim
• Other sulfa-containing medicines
• Certain antiepileptic drugs
• Blood-thinning medicines

Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can this medicine be used for malaria prevention while travelling?

It is generally used for treatment rather than routine prevention; ask your doctor for suitable options.

Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

It should only be used in pregnancy if the doctor feels it is necessary, especially avoiding it near delivery time.

Can I stop the medicine once fever goes away?

• No, complete the full course as prescribed, as stopping early may not fully clear the infection.
• This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should not be taken without a doctor's advice. Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.